How to keep your dog entertained at home

30th March 2020

When you're spending time at home, these top tips will help to keep your dog entertained.

Treasure hunt

Set up a treasure hunt by hiding treats around the house. This can be some of your dog’s favourite toys, dog food treats or dry dog food. If using food, make sure you take this out of your dog’s daily food allowance so that you don’t overfeed them. Remember where you put all the treats in case your dog doesn’t manage to find them all!

Use puzzle feeders

Puzzle feeders turn mealtimes into a game and allow your dog to take their time over their food. It stops dogs eating their food too quickly, which can cause stomach upsets. There are different types of feeders that either have obstacles within the bowl for your dog to navigate or feeders that move around and dispense dry dog food.

Obstacle course

If you have space in your home, set up an obstacle course and train your dog to navigate it correctly. This is a good way to keep your dog both physically and mentally engaged. Alternatively, you could set the obstacle course up in your garden if the weather is nice. Obstacles can involve jumps, tunnels, platforms and objects for them to weave in and out of. Once they’ve got the hang of a course, try timing them to see how fast they can complete it and move things around to keep them on their toes.

Teach your dog new tricks

If your dog has got the hang of sit, stay, roll over etc., why not try training your dog to do some more complicated tricks? Try a few dance moves or teach your dog to walk on their front legs. Clicker training is a great way to help your dog to pick up some new moves.

Rotate toys

Your dog may get bored if they play with the same toys every day. Try putting their toys on rotation by hiding some for a few days to keep them interested. Teach your dog how to put their toys away at the end of the play session.

Play tug of war

What dog doesn’t love a good game of tug of war? It’s a great way to use up a bit of energy and it’s a game that doesn’t require much space. Let your dog win every now and again because they will enjoy the satisfaction and find the game rewarding.

Dog-friendly garden

Make sure your garden is dog-friendly and contains things that will keep them entertained such as outdoor toys or dog boxes. Dig boxes are a great way to ensure your dog can entertain their passion for digging without them digging up your best plants.

Play with your dog

A dog will soon become bored if it’s left to play on its own. Interactive play with you can help to increase your bond and improves your dog social skills, as well as ensuring they don’t get lonely.