Have you ever come home to find your dog has chewed through your favourite shoes or dug a tunnel in the garden that resembles something from the Great Escape? There are many causes for destructiveness from anxiousness and stress to teething. But boredom can also be a cause. So, here are some fun and clever ways to help stimulate your dog while you’re away.
The Bubble Machine
Bubble machine produces a stream of bubbles which can last for hours. Battery operated; bubbles come in bacon, liver, chicken and even peanut butter flavour! Typical cost £20.
The Time Kong Dispenser
This machine dispenses Kongs filled with treats at regular intervals during the day. It holds up to four Kongs at a time, keeping your dog occupied for hours. Prices start from approx £60.
Wiggly Giggly Mini Balls
These balls make noises as your dog rolls them or carries them around. This interactive toy encourages the dog to play by themselves. Typical cost £4.
Your imagination…
…you don’t just have to buy expensive toys to entertain your pooch! Why not fill an old box with tasty titbits and rags, your dog then has to hunt out the treats. Alternatively, scattering kibble across the garden enables your dog to use his natural scenting instinct to sniff out his dinner.
De-stress your dog
Dogs are pack animals, so when left alone some dogs become anxious. To help de-stress your dog leave an item of clothing you’ve worn overnight in your dog’s bed; your scent will give him comfort. Leaving a radio or television on can also be soothing. Be aware of not making a fuss of your dog when you’re coming and going. This is a key area where we can over-excite our dogs and do more harm than good! So, when arriving home wait until your dog is calm and settled, then call him over for a cuddle! When leaving, gather your belongings and pop a treat down for the dog, don’t say anything or make eye contact just leave quietly, enabling the dog to be as relaxed as possible at your departure.
All these dog products, together with a range of other brain-busting toys are available from the internet. For more game ideas or if you’re experiencing problems such as destructive chewing, then call Hanne Grice on 01442 878628 or email us at info@walk-the-dog.net For more information about our canine behaviour and dog training services, visit http://www.doglistener.tv/
The Bubble Machine
Bubble machine produces a stream of bubbles which can last for hours. Battery operated; bubbles come in bacon, liver, chicken and even peanut butter flavour! Typical cost £20.
The Time Kong Dispenser
This machine dispenses Kongs filled with treats at regular intervals during the day. It holds up to four Kongs at a time, keeping your dog occupied for hours. Prices start from approx £60.
Wiggly Giggly Mini Balls
These balls make noises as your dog rolls them or carries them around. This interactive toy encourages the dog to play by themselves. Typical cost £4.
Your imagination…
…you don’t just have to buy expensive toys to entertain your pooch! Why not fill an old box with tasty titbits and rags, your dog then has to hunt out the treats. Alternatively, scattering kibble across the garden enables your dog to use his natural scenting instinct to sniff out his dinner.
De-stress your dog
Dogs are pack animals, so when left alone some dogs become anxious. To help de-stress your dog leave an item of clothing you’ve worn overnight in your dog’s bed; your scent will give him comfort. Leaving a radio or television on can also be soothing. Be aware of not making a fuss of your dog when you’re coming and going. This is a key area where we can over-excite our dogs and do more harm than good! So, when arriving home wait until your dog is calm and settled, then call him over for a cuddle! When leaving, gather your belongings and pop a treat down for the dog, don’t say anything or make eye contact just leave quietly, enabling the dog to be as relaxed as possible at your departure.
All these dog products, together with a range of other brain-busting toys are available from the internet. For more game ideas or if you’re experiencing problems such as destructive chewing, then call Hanne Grice on 01442 878628 or email us at info@walk-the-dog.net For more information about our canine behaviour and dog training services, visit http://www.doglistener.tv/
