Patrick shares top tips for battling your dog’s boredom
January 7, 2023
It’s not just people who suffer from the winter blues. After all the fuss and excitement of the festive season, dogs can struggle to get back into their usual routine, get bored more easily, and start to display unwanted behaviours.
To help you help them, our head vet Patrick von Heimendahl has some ideas for perking up your pooch below.
Plus, don’t forget that you can always contact us for advice if you’re worried about your dog’s behaviour.
Signs your dog is bored
If your dog is acting differently, they might not be getting the stimulation they need. Keep an eye out for these behaviours, which are all possible signs of boredom:
- Chewing
- Restlessness
- Sighing
- Constant pining for your attention
- Destructive behaviour
- Following you around with a toy when you are home
- Excessive barking
- Chasing their tail
- Digging
- Licking paws
- Excessive grooming
Some of the above behaviours could also be related to ill health, so if they persist it would be wise to book in for a check-up. Call us on 01223 359021 or visit our website to book an appointment online.
Six ways to combat boredom
The good news is, it’s relatively easy to bust that boredom. While we often assume physical activity such as walking is the key to improving behaviour, the benefits of mental stimulation are actually just as important as physical exercise.
Patrick has put together some ideas for combatting dog boredom below:
- Mind-stimulating games, such as playing hide-and-seek with their favourite toys or treats or teaching them new tricks.
- Puzzles – you can pick up brain stimulation and puzzle games in most pet shops or online. These are designed to keep a dog’s mind really active and engaged so have a look for interactive puzzles. Remember to start simple and move your dog up in difficulty level as they progress.
- Plenty of exercise is vital at any time of year, but it’s easy to get lazy when it’s cold outside. Patrick suggests adding new routes to your normal routine or varying the length or frequency of walks to mix it up a bit. January is Walk Your Dog Month so be sure to get out there and let your dog run off that excess energy – you’ll both feel healthier and happier for it! You could also do activities on walks such as going around posts, under or over benches (if your dog is able) or try practising tricks or commands for rewards. Remember, stay safe, have fun and wrap the both of you up warm!
- Playtime not only entertains your dog (and you), but also helps them to positively focus any predatory behaviour. Playtime stimulates their mind and provides exercise too, whether indoor or outdoor.
- Training classes are a safe environment to teach obedience, communication, and socialisation. They are great for owner ‘training’ too!
- Companionship is as important for dogs as it is for people. If you’re a one-dog household, take them to play with a friend. Not only will it give your dog essential social skills, but it’s also lots of fun.
Remember, you can always ask our vets or nurses here at Clarendon Street Vets for dog game ideas or for advice about improving your dog’s behaviour.
Here’s to a happy and healthy new year with your dog!