Many dog owners have to go out to work for at least part of the day, leaving their furry friends home alone.
Here are 12 top tips and tricks to keep your dog happy and occupied while you’re not there to care for your pet.
1. Exercise Your Dog Before You Leave
A tired dog is a happy dog, and your pet is much more likely to settle down and nap while you’re away if he’s had plenty of exercise.
So, take your dog out for a long walk, visit the dog park, or have a game of fetch or tug-of-war in your backyard before putting your dog into his crate and leaving him for the day.
1. Exercise Your Dog Before You Leave
A tired dog is a happy dog, and your pet is much more likely to settle down and nap while you’re away if he’s had plenty of exercise.
So, take your dog out for a long walk, visit the dog park, or have a game of fetch or tug-of-war in your backyard before putting your dog into his crate and leaving him for the day.
2. Set Up Dog TV
Some dogs love to watch TV, sitting engrossed for hours in front of wildlife shows and even soccer matches!
You can help to keep your dog distracted and occupied by tuning in to Dog TV while you’re out at work and putting your pet’s crate where he has a good view of the screen.
3. Provide Your Dog with A View
Some dogs enjoy watching the world go by outside, which can help to relieve feelings of loneliness. If possible, put your dog’s crate close to a window so that your pet has a good view.
However, if you have a confirmed barker, providing your noisy hound with something that might trigger his barking behavior might not be such a good idea, especially if you have near neighbors.
4. A Comfortable Crate
Your dog’s crate should be a comfortable den where he can relax and chill out. So, fit the crate with a durable crate mat, a water bottle, and ensure you place the crate where it won’t be indirect sunlight or in a draft.
5. Provide Interactive Toys
Most dogs enjoy the challenge of food-related interactive puzzle toys, such as a KONG stuffed with peanut butter or treats and frozen.
A simple reward-based toy can keep your furry friend occupied for hours even if you’re not there to play with him.
6. Keep Your Dog Calm
Aromatherapy is not just for people! If your dog becomes anxious or stressed when you’re not there to keep him company, try using a room scenter with a combination of relaxing essential oils, such as lavender, frankincense, or wild orange.
You can also use pheromone diffusers to calm your pet and offer your canine companion all-natural, calming chews. These products work by releasing the same chemical substances that a mother dog produces when she’s nursing her puppies. That cocktail of pheromones helps to relax an anxious dog and keep him calm.
7. Two’s Company!
If you have the space and time for another dog, providing your pet with a furry canine companion can be the ideal scenario, especially for dogs that suffer from separation anxiety and other stress-related behaviors when left alone.
Rescue centers are usually bursting at the seams with unwanted dogs that are all waiting for a new forever home and a second chance of a happy life. Many rescues will allow you to foster a dog for a short period initially, before you adopt the dog into your family.
8. Keep It Cool!
Many dogs love playing with ice! For some reason, the substance seems to fascinate pups, especially if you provide your dog with a block of ice laced with treats to play with.
Take a plastic container or bowl, fill the container with water and freeze it. You can put a chew treat in the water, too, for good measure. Give your dog the frozen toy combo to provide your pet with hours of fun.
9. Arrange A Doggy Playdate
If you have trusted neighbors or family members who have dogs that get along well with your furry friend, why not organize a doggy playdate?
The visiting dog could come around to enjoy supervised play with your pup while you’re at work. In case of accident or emergency, we recommend that you leave your vet’s contact details with the visiting pet parent.
10. Take Your Dog to Doggy Daycare
An excellent option for dog owners that work is to leave their pet with a doggy daycare center for the day. Provided that your dog is well-socialized, he can enjoy playing with other pups, and trips to the dog park might also be included.
Choose a daycare that has a good reputation, is fully insured, and can provide references from happy clients. Visit the facilities and interview the management and staff before arranging for your precious pet to spend the day with them.
11. Hire A Dog Walker
Dog walking is a very popular occupation these days, and you might want to consider hiring a dog walker to call and exercise your pet each day.
If you have a dog that’s happy to spend time with strangers and is well-socialized, a dog walking service might be a workable option for you. Again, check that the person that you’re considering hiring is fully insured and always go for references.
12. Buy Your Dog a New Toy
Dogs love to have a special, favorite toy that they play with endlessly. Over time, that takes its toll on the toy, potentially creating a choking hazard or bacteria trap.
Keep an eye on your dog’s favorite toy and replace it when necessary. You can take your dog toy shopping with you, as many pet stores allow dogs to browse their shelves, provided that the pups are accompanied by their owners!
A toy that your dog selects himself is sure to be a favorite that will keep him busy while you’re out at work.
Final Thoughts
If you go out to work all day and must leave your dog home alone, use these tips and tricks to keep your dog happy, relaxed, and busy while you’re not there to watch him.
Provide your dog with a comfortable crate to sleep in, give him interactive puzzles and toys to amuse him, and try to arrange playdates and a dog walker to call round to break up the day for your canine friend.
