26 Quick & Simple Ways To Relieve Dog Boredom

Is your dog bored? Are you looking for some simple ways to keep your dog busy?

When dogs get bored they can develop some destructive behaviors. For thousands of years we’ve bred dogs to work alongside us so they’ve developed quite a work ethic.

The problem is most of us don’t have actual jobs for our dogs to do. They don’t have to work for their food, affection or toys; they get it all for free. And while getting stuff for free is great, it leaves many of our dogs with a lot of down time.

So what happens when our dogs get bored? They get into trouble. If we don’t keep them mentally simulated or busy they’ll come up with their own ways to pass the time, and you’re probably not going to like their idea of a good time.

Luckily there are a few simple ways to keep your dog busy, entertained and out of trouble. Here’s 26 quick & easy ways to relieve dog boredom.

Bored Dogs Become Destructive

Is your dog bored? Dogs that are bored tend to get into trouble by looking for ways to entertain themselves. Boredom can lead to excessive chewing, barking, digging, and other destructive behaviors.

Our dogs were bred to work alongside humans, so without proper stimulation they can easily become bored. Instead of having a job to do most of our canine companions are left alone while we work – and then when we get home we hand them a free meal. That’s great for couch potatoes, but many of our dogs are left with a lot of excess energy at the end of the day. They need boredom busters & activities to occupy both their bodies and minds.

Luckily there are a few simple games you can play, toys you can try, treats you can make, and tricks you can teach to quickly relieve your dogs boredom.

Dogs Need Interactive Play & Fun Games

To keep your dog fit both physically and mentally you’ll need to come up with some interactive activities and dog toys to enjoy together. Whether you have a young or old dog, big or small – they need entertainment. From a simple game of fetch, working on obedience, or a trip to the local park; it’s up to you.

A recent study found that dogs that don’t engage in a lot of play exhibit more behavioral issues such as anxiety and aggression.

Dogs are social animals and they really enjoy being with us. Play is good for your dog physically, mentally and emotionally. Your dog gets exercise, they get to work their brain and it helps to build your bond. Everybody benefits from play. – The Power of Play: How Play Opened Up a New World For My Fearful Dog

Keeping Your Dog Busy Leads to Better Behavior

With so many great and simple choices it’s just a matter of finding a few that suit your lifestyle – and making the commitment. From choosing toys that will keep your dog busy, or changing up your walking routine, there’s so many possibilities.

I notice a huge difference in my dogs behavior after a simple obedience training session, it doesn’t take much time and it’s enjoyable for the both of us. An active, mentally challenged dog will make for a thriving, happy, and less destructive companion.

If you think dogs can’t count, try putting three dog biscuits in your pocket and then give him only two of them. – Phil Pastoret

26 Ways to Relieve Dog Boredom

Is your dog bored? Check out this list of 26 easy ways to keep your dog busy and relieve dog boredom:

1. Play Some Nose Games With Your Dog
2. Change up Your Walking Routine
3. Use Interactive Dog Toys
4. Work on Some Simple Obedience Training
5. Give Your Dog a Simple Job
6. Give Your Dog a Not So Simple Job
7. Arrange a Play Date For Your Dog
8. Build a Digging Box For Your Dog
9. Get Your Dog a Jolly Ball
10. Work on Clicker Training Your Dog
11. Practice Some Free Shaping Games
12. Introduce Your Dog to New People and Places
13. Use a Stuffed Kong to Keep Your Dog Busy
14. Use a Kiddie Pool or Take a Trip to the Lake
15. Hire a Dog Walker
16. Make Some Frozen Treats For Your Dog
17. Give Your Dog Some Extra Attention
18. Alternate Toys to Keep Your Dogs Interest
19. Give Your Dog a Nice View
20. Make Your Dog Work for His Food
21. Teach Your Dog to Relax
22. Make a Flirt Pole for Energetic & High Drive Dogs
23. Make a Simple DIY Puzzle Toy
24. Give The Something to Chew On
25. Make Your Own DIY Agility Course
26. Give Your Dog Mental & Physical Exercise

Looking For More Ways to Keep Your Dog Busy?

Looking for more boredom busters for your dog? Check out our list of 33 Simple Ways to Keep Your Dog Busy Indoors for more ways to keep your dog happy, entertained and out of trouble.