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In Sara Novak's post on pup anxiety, she suggested an excellent remedy for calming your dog's nerves naturally. Keeping your dog calm can save you from having to replace furniture and carpets destroyed by a stressed-out pooch. But nerves aren't the only thing that can make a dog behave badly. Sometimes the chewing, scratching, and destroying of furniture comes from one thing—doggy boredom.
While we're away at work during the day, or even out at night, our dogs surely miss us. However some dogs become so bored they take it to a whole new level—and your home furnishings pay the price. But you can prevent your dog from being bored and nipping these behavior problems in the bud. Just introduce the right type of dog toys and make sure your dog is getting enough exercise.
Tips on Keeping Your Dog Entertained
- Give Your Dog Challenging Toys
Look for dog toys that provide mental stimulation for your dog. Much like humans, dogs like challenges and new things to occupy their time, particularly when you aren't there to entertain them yourself.
The Humane Society of the United States suggests three types of toys: active toys, distraction toys, and comfort toys. Below are some examples of each.
Active Toys:- Hard to chew rubber toys (Nylabone®-type and Kong®-type products)
- Rope toys, often in bone-shape with knotted ends
- Tennis balls
Distraction Toys- Kong®-type toys—you can hide peanut butter or treats inside
- Busy-box toys—also lets you hide treats, but this toy is a cube
Comfort Toys- Soft stuffed toys, these can help calm them while you're away
- Piece of clothing or blanket that smells like you
Always make sure the toys are an appropriate size for your dog. Don't him anything to small that he can choke on or swallow. Also, to keep things interesting, change up the toys and introduce new ones once in a while. - Give Your Dog Proper Exercise
Dogs need exercise to stay fit and to keep them mentally stimulated. Going on walks helps spend their pent-up energy. It also gives them a chance to see—and smell—people and other dogs in the neighborhood. Just going out in the backyard isn't always good enough, dogs need to be taken on walks regularly to keep their interest up. Follow these tips from the ASPCA if you are new to dog walks. To minimize the amount of time your dog spends alone, and to give him a mid-day potty break, consider hiring a dog walker, or having a neighbor walk him while you're away.
With the right amount of exercise and some fun dog toys, your dog should be on his best behavior. And you won't be forced to buy new furniture or household items!
More on Green Pets
Practice Yoga with Your Pooch—or Don't
How to Go Green: Pets
Take Your Cat for a Walk
Pup Got Anxiety? Calm Their Nerves Naturally
5 Ideas for Saving Green by Greening Your Pets
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