MoreFighting Pet Boredom
Why Does Boredom Happen?
Humans constantly have things to do. We get up, get dressed, make breakfast, go to school or work, go out with friends, get dinner and on and on it goes. If we do get bored, we can grab a book, surf the web on our phones or turn on the TV. Entertainment is constantly at our fingertips.
Our pets, however, don't have these options - they're left with fighting pet boredom. They can only leave the house when we let them, and they can only play with what we give them. While we're at work all day, they're at home just waiting for us to come back. It can get monotonous and before you know it, boredom sets in. That's why bored dogs often get into trouble and pick up bad habits (digging up the yard, getting in the trash, chewing up your favorite shoes, etc.). Here are some helpful suggestions to keep your pet from getting bored:
Toys
Toys are a great way to keep your pet entertained, particularly puzzle toys and toys you can put treats in. While it's fun to have something to play with, a toy that engages your pet mentally will satisfy them more. PetSafe has a variety of treat dispensing and treat holding toys like the Magic Mushroom, Bristle Bone, Tug-a-Jug and Jack. Try the Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Link or the Snoop for durable, but soft, rubber that's great for teething puppies! Starmark also makes interactive, treat-dispensing toys like the Bob-a-Lot and the Puzzle Ball. Use any of these toys to provide your dog with tasty treats or as a feeder at meal time! There are also plenty of toys for dogs that aren't food motivated like the PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher or Outward Hound's Invincibles that keep squeaking even after they're punctured! Keep in mind that toys are best used with supervision, like when you need to clean the house, eat dinner or want to watch some TV uninterrupted. Never leave your dog alone with something they could possibly choke on, and if you have any questions, just stop by and talk to a team member!
Food and Water
Eating the same thing, the same way day in and day out also gets boring. Try switching up your pets meal time with new flavors or toppers! Many brands of food are rotational, meaning you can switch between flavors without upsetting your pet's stomach. Switching protein sources and formulas can also be beneficial to your pet's health since different meats, fruits and vegetables offer different benefits. If you and your pet really like their current food, you could try different toppers instead. Frozen, dehydrated or freeze-dried raw food, canned wet food, Primal Goat Milk and The Honest Kitchen Bone Broth are great ways to add variety and health benefits to your pet's diet. As they say, variety is the spice of life! You can also switch up how your pet eats and drinks. Try a puzzle slow-feeder or a fountain to create more engaging meal times. Chew treats like bully sticks and elk horns can also help with boredom, but should only be used in moderation and with supervision.
Person-to-Pet Interaction
Maybe the best way to help ease your pet's boredom is to play with them! Your pet waits all day for you to come home, and more than anything they just want to spend time with you. Training is a great way to spend quality time together and helps stimulate your pet physically and mentally. Playing games like hide-and-seek (make your dog sit, hide their favorite treats or toys around the house and let them loose to find them,) fetch and tug-o-war are great ways to use their pent up energy and strengthen your bond together. If the weather's nice, go for a long walk or a hike. Ruffwear and RC Pet offer a variety of durable, outdoor harnesses, backpacks, collars, leashes, and bowls for your adventures. And when you're all done playing, running, hiking and swimming, bring them in for a groom or a self-wash!
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