How to prevent my dog from being bored when I'm at work
Is it hard for you too to leave home, leaving your four-legged companion behind? Does he watch you leave sadly, and you don't want him to get too lonely? We haven't found the perfect solution yet, but we can give you some advice.
1. Often absent? The question of responsibility
If your schedule involves frequent and lengthy absences, it's essential to reconsider your desire to adopt a dog . A dog is a responsibility and doesn't tolerate prolonged solitude well. Adopting a dog is a significant decision that deserves careful consideration!
Breeds more suited to (moderate) solitude: the Tibetan Spaniel, the Pekingese, the Japanese Spitz, the Welsh Corgi, the Chihuahua or the Yorkshire Terrier can manage on their own more easily than other dogs.
2. How to recognize a bored dog?
A bored dog doesn't just have sad eyes. It can develop numerous behavioral problems if its boredom isn't addressed, potentially even progressing to separation anxiety.
Specific warning signs:
- Attention-seeking: He follows you everywhere, whines or makes plaintive sounds for no apparent reason.
- Agitation and/or destruction: He exhibits hyperactive behavior, attacks your personal belongings (shoes, curtains), or digs holes.
- Excessive vocalization: He barks excessively when you are away, which can cause problems with the neighbors.
- Compulsive licking: Excessive licking or scratching, which can lead to skin injuries.
- Apathy: Contrary to his usual state, he is inactive, loses his appetite and seems sad.
3. Learning to wait for yourself: gradual independence
If your dog is too dependent on your presence, you need to gradually accustom him to being alone. Leave him in a room for 5 minutes, then 10 minutes, and increase the duration until you're gone for as long as you are. This way, he'll learn not to depend on you and will be able to entertain himself without you.
Managing departure and return rituals
Don't make a big deal out of your departure or return. These rituals (talking to the dog before leaving, cuddling him upon arrival) increase his anxiety.
Initially: Remain discreet. The dog's anxiety increases as it watches its owner put on their shoes and take the keys. Avoid over-reassuring it.
Upon returning home: Remain calm. Ignore the dog for the first few minutes, encourage it to calm down (e.g., by going to its bed), and clean up any mess (if there is one) without scolding it afterward. Delayed reprimands only increase its anxiety.
4. Offer him/her companionship (enrichment)
By "companion," we mean enrichment tools, not another dog. Important : if you can't alleviate your dog's boredom on your own, don't get a second one... otherwise, both of them will be bored.
To distract him, the ideal solution is a food-related game:
- Chew toy: Provide him with a toy that is appropriate for his size.
- Treat-dispensing toy: To make the game more interesting, choose a toy filled with treats (like a Kong) or a lick mat. Your dog will focus on eating their treats and might even forget you're gone.
5. Sport: the key to a peaceful day
A tired dog is a calm dog! Exercise is essential for its physical and mental well-being. When you're with him, make sure he gets plenty of exercise:
- Go for a long walk or a jog before you leave. Not only will it do you good, but your dog will also nap while you're gone.
- Even a short moment (stick/ball throwing) just before leaving can be a very good start.
- A relaxing evening stroll, where he can smell the scents and stretch his legs, will always be appreciated.
6. Little extras for loneliness
- Leave some background noise: Radio or TV (in moderation) or a YouTube channel can help your dog feel less lonely.
- Ask for help: If you'll be away for a long time, ask a relative or neighbor to check on your dog. They'll get some human stimulation.
- Dog Sitter: For long days, use reputable dog sitter websites for visits or walks.
Conclusion
Don't be too hard on yourself if you have to leave your dog at home. The mere fact that you're looking for solutions shows how much you care about its well-being, and that's already a huge step!
By combining regular physical activity, gradual training for solitude, and enrichment tools, you'll make your companion's absence much easier and more enjoyable. 😊