Cold winter days can leave your four-legged friend feeling cooped up and restless. Less outdoor time and shorter walks can take a toll on your dog’s physical and mental wellbeing, and that can lead to destructive behaviour, stress, or even health issues. It’s during these times that many pet parents realise how important it is to protect their pups with a reliable pet insurance policy, because sometimes, even boredom can lead to unexpected vet visits.  

Without further ado, here’s how to help a bored dog!  

RELATED: WINTER GUIDE FOR PET PARENTS 

 

Signs of a Bored Dog 

Bored dog signs can vary from subtle behavioural shifts to more destructive actions. Here’s what to look out for: 

  • Increased barking 
  • Increased chewing 
  • Circle running 
  • Whining 
  • Following you everywhere 

RELATED: WHAT MOTIVATES YOUR PET? 

 

Fun Activities for Bored Dogs 

It’s easy to turn boredom into tail-wagging fun with the right activities, many of which you can do indoors. 

Teach Your Dog to Play Hide and Seek: 

Hide their favourite toy or a few treats around the house and encourage them to find it. This taps into your dog’s natural scent-tracking instincts. 

Create a Doggy Obstacle Course: 

Turn your lounge into a mini agility course using household items like cushions, chairs, and blankets. Guide your dog through jumps, tunnels, and weaves for a physical challenge. 

Challenge Your Dog with Tug-Of-War: 

Tug-of-war is an excellent bonding activity. Add a training twist by incorporating commands like “drop it” or “take it” to boost mental engagement during play. 

Schedule Indoor Training Sessions: 

Short on outdoor time? Use those indoor hours to teach your dog new tricks or refresh their obedience training. Ten minutes a day of positive reinforcement can go a long way. 

Organise Playdates or Try Doggy Daycare: 

If your dog enjoys the company of others, indoor playdates with canine friends or supervised doggy daycare can be a great outlet. Social time helps reduce loneliness and boredom. 

Let Them Enjoy a Window View: 

Set up a comfy perch by a window so your dog can watch birds, cars, and passersby. It’s a low-effort way to keep them entertained, but watch out for excessive barking if the excitement gets too much! 

 

Mental Stimulation for Your Dog 

Physical exercise is vital, but mental enrichment is equally important for a well-balanced dog. Activities that challenge your pup’s brain can reduce anxiety and improve their focus. 

Rotate Their Toys Regularly: 

Just as humans tire of the same old TV shows, dogs get bored with the same toys. Keep their interest high by rotating their toys weekly.  

Use Interactive Toys: 

Snuffle mats, food puzzles, and treat-dispensing toys are great tools to encourage problem-solving.  

Introduce Scent Tracking Walks: 

Not every walk needs to be a power walk. Let your dog lead with their nose on slower-paced walks where sniffing is encouraged. It’s a sensory-rich experience that provides great mental stimulation. 

 

When Boredom Leads to Bigger Problems 

If your energetic pooch accidentally gets hurt while zooming around the living room, pet insurance from dotsure.co.za can help cover unexpected vet bills. Quote online today and keep their tails wagging, no matter the weather.