Doggy Boredom: Signs and Symptoms
A bored dog will make their own fun, most likely in ways that don’t work for you. When left to their own devices, bored dogs will chew furniture and shoes, shred pillows, or even unroll your toilet paper, doing whatever they can find to pass the time. And because you’re not there to stop them, it’s all the more exciting.
Big messes when you get home are a clear sign of a dog with nothing to do. You might also see digging in the backyard or tipping over trash cans. And signs of boredom can be seen even when you’re at home. If your dog is always looking for attention and acting restless, chances are they’re bored and want something to do. Your dog might also jump on you and your guests or bark excessively.
Be sure to rule out separation anxiety if you’re seeing destructive behavior and a clingy attitude. Most of the time, this is simply your dog relieving boredom and enjoying a lack of supervision. But occasionally it indicates intense distress about being left alone. If you have any concerns, consult a dog trainer or an animal behaviorist.
Physical Exercise
It’s true that a tired dog is more likely to nap than get into trouble while you’re out. So, make sure you’re giving your dog enough physical exercise. Talk to your breeder or veterinarian about how much exercise your dog needs. A Chihuahua might be good with a walk and a romp around the yard, whereas an energetic Border Collie will likely need far more to satisfy their needs.