10 simple ways to relieve dog boredom

Many dog breeds were originally bred to work alongside people. Today most pet dogs don't need to work for anything: we give them food, toys, beds and gardens. But even a well-cared-for dog can become bored, both mentally and physically.

Why boredom matters

Bored dogs can become destructive. That can mean constant barking, digging holes or excessive chewing. Keeping your dog active in body and mind helps prevent these behaviours.

Exercise also helps prevent weight gain. Overweight dogs are more likely to develop health problems such as joint problems, diabetes and breathing difficulties.

10 simple ways to relieve dog boredom

1. Play with a flying disc

Dog-friendly flying discs make a great outdoor game. Find a park, a large field or use your garden. Whatever your dog's size, chasing a disc gets them moving.

2. Try puzzle toys

There's a wide variety of puzzle toys for dogs. Most have holes or compartments where you hide treats, and your dog has to use their nose and brain to get the reward. They're useful when your dog has to spend some time on their own.

3. Find a dog field or arrange a play date

Look for a secure, enclosed dog field or park near you, where your dog can let off steam. You could also arrange a play date with friends, family or colleagues whose dog gets along with yours, on a beach, a walking trail or in someone's garden.

4. Take a dog-friendly day trip

New sights, sounds and smells are exciting for dogs. Keep your dog safely restrained in the car with a harness, crate or guard, and keep their head inside the window. The Highway Code says dogs should be suitably restrained in a vehicle so they can't distract you or be hurt if you stop quickly.

Once you reach your destination, whether that's a beach, a new park or a dog-friendly café, your dog will enjoy both the outing and the new surroundings.

5. Practise training and tricks

Teach your dog the basics, such as sit, stay, down and come, using short, reward-based sessions. Once they've mastered those, move on to tricks. Training is good for your dog's brain, and a well-mannered dog is a pleasure to be around.

6. Play scent games

Hide treats around the house and let your dog sniff them out, which is ideal on a rainy day. To get started, hold a treat in one closed hand and let your dog work out which hand it's in.

7. Give them a large, durable ball

A large, durable ball that's too big for your dog to pick up lets them chase, push and tumble with it. Give it a kick and let your dog dash after it.

8. Use a treat-dispensing camera

Some pet cameras let you watch your dog and your home in real time through an internet connection, talk to your dog and toss them a treat. They can add some interest to the day, but they aren't a substitute for company.

9. Make frozen treats

Frozen treats are great on a hot day or when you're going out for a while. Freeze broth in ice cube trays. Use a plain broth with no onion, garlic or added salt. For an extra challenge, put a chewy dog treat in the middle.

10. Offer safe chews

Durable chew toys or long-lasting chews suited to your dog's size are a good way for your dog to spend time and energy. Supervise chewing. For extra interest, stuff a rubber food-dispensing toy with peanut butter or small frozen treats. Use a peanut butter with no xylitol (also called birch sugar), which is poisonous to dogs.

An active dog is a happy dog

Don't let your dog become so bored that they turn destructive or put on weight. Try one, some or all of these ideas. After all, an active dog is a happy dog.