How to Keep Your Dog Entertained While Home Alone

Introduction
Dogs are incredibly social animals, and they often form deep bonds with their human companions. While we all wish we could spend every moment with our furry friends, the reality is that sometimes we have to leave them home alone. Leaving your dog alone for extended periods can lead to boredom and anxiety, but with the right strategies, you can keep your pup entertained and content while you're away. In this blog, we'll explore various ways to ensure your dog remains happy and stimulated when you can't be there with them. 

If you are having troubles with your dog experiencing separation anxiety, you can also check out the blogs listed below for more ideas:

• Back to School for Your Pet 
• How to Keep Your Dog Safe During the 4th of July 

If the advice in these blogs does not help or you have already tried it, find a veterinarian that specializes in behavior.  You can check out the Board of Veterinary Behaviorists website for more information and to help you find a licensed specialist in your area!  

1. Puzzle Toys
One of the most effective ways to engage your dog's mind and keep them entertained is through puzzle toys. These toys are designed to challenge your dog's problem-solving skills and provide mental stimulation. Fill a Kong toy with treats or peanut butter and freeze it to make the challenge last longer. As your dog works to get the goodies out, it can keep them occupied for hours.  When choosing toys that you’ll leave alone, make sure there are no pieces they can chew off and swallow.
2. Interactive Feeders
Interactive feeders are another great option to occupy your dog's time and provide mental stimulation. These devices dispense small amounts of kibble or treats as your dog interacts with them. Not only does this keep your dog mentally engaged, but it can also slow down fast eaters and prevent overeating.  Again, make sure there are no pieces that your pet could chew off and swallow.
3. Safe Chew Toys
Chew toys are not only excellent for maintaining your dog's dental health but also for keeping them busy. Depending on your dog's chewing habits they may be safe to leave as an option when you are not home.  However, if your dog is an aggressive chewer or breaks pieces off, use extreme caution giving them to your pet even when you are there to supervise.  Large chunks can be a choking hazard or cause an intestinal blockage!  If there is any doubt it is better to err on the cautious side, as swallowing too large a chunk can cost your dog their life.  Greenie chews tend to be safe, but even with these, some dogs will swallow them whole, so use caution.

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4. Dog TV and Music
Believe it or not, there's now dog-specific programming available on TV and soothing music designed to relax and entertain your canine friend. Leaving the TV on or playing calming music can help alleviate separation anxiety and keep your dog entertained.  If you do opt for a dog specific station, ensure that the programming will not tempt your pup into lunging at the tv potentially knocking it over and causing injury.  Cat TV is particularly known for tempting cats into hunting behavior with dramatic results for the tv (on the floor) and sometimes the pet (getting hit by the falling tv and being injured).
5. Rotate Toys
Dogs can get bored with the same toys if they see them every day. Rotate your dog's toys, so they have "new" ones to explore periodically. This can make their playtime more exciting and engaging.  Utilizing different puzzles and interactive feeding techniques can dramatically increase your dog’s mental stimulation and provide a great deal of enrichment!

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6. Provide a Comfortable Bed
If you confine your dog to a smaller area of the house when you leave, make sure to provide them with a comfortable place to nap.  Odds are even with providing many enrichment options your pup is going to spend a good part of your time away napping!  Make sure they have a comfortable place to do so, and try not to be too annoyed when they choose the tile floor over the comfy bed on a hot day!
7. Find a Neighbor to Stop In
With more people working from home than ever before, you may be able to find a neighbor who will stop in mid-day to visit your pet and maybe even go for a walk with them!  For folks living in apartments that don’t allow pets or who are trying to increase their activities levels this may be a win-win for you both!  Be sure to do your due diligence before opening your home to such a set up and make sure they are trustworthy!

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8. Plan Time Together on Your Return
Even with all this planning your dog is going to want your attention when you return home, which can sometimes be an annoyance, especially after a rough day.  Plan a regular activity to do with your dog when you return home that can provide both of you some relaxation.  Plan a walk, some fetch, or some snuggles (especially as your dog ages).  Remember, for most of our dogs we are their only pack, they need connection from you even when you have had a long day, so try to find an activity you can both enjoy together (if you live in MN and hate the cold, come up with an indoor option for both your sakes!).
Conclusion
Leaving your dog home alone doesn't have to be a source of guilt or worry. By providing your furry companion with engaging activities and mental stimulation, you can ensure they remain happy and content during your absence. Whether it's through puzzle toys, interactive feeders, social interactions, or television, there are plenty of ways to keep your dog entertained and emotionally fulfilled during the hours you’re away. The time you spend connecting with them before leaving for the day and on your return, can also have a huge impact on how they handle the time when you are not there.  Remember that a happy, stimulated dog is a well-behaved and emotionally healthy one.