3 Ways To Keep Your Dog Calm and Happy When Home-Alone

Dogs are very affectionate animals, with the need of constant affirmation and loving attention. With a regular work-life schedule, it may be difficult to always be around to play catch with your pet pup. Understandably so, humans lead busy lives, but we have rounded up 3 great ways to keep your dog occupied, happy, and satisfied, when you may not be able to do so.

We have gathered a list of approaches and pet products which we have either tried first hand or have been recommended by friends or family. We made sure that our list of dog-friendly accessories are easily obtainable, budget-friendly and guaranteed to be enjoyed by your furry companion.

1. KONG CLASSIC

KONG are a well-established global pet brand that produce a variety of quality pet products from games to chew toys, for both cats and dogs. The KONG Classic is a wonderful toy that promotes so many positive instinctual habits in your dog. As listed on their website, the KONG Classic is:

• Mentally stimulating toy; offering enrichment by helping satisfy dogs’ instinctual needs
• KONG classic red rubber formula for average chewers
• Unpredictable bounce for games of fetch
• Great for stuffing with KONG Easy Treat; Snacks or Ziggies
• Recommended by veterinarians and trainers worldwide
• Natural rubber

I have ALWAYS owned the KONG Classic for all my 3 dogs, they absolutely love it! I’ve found that stuffing it with smoked meat, cheese (low amounts, due to high fat content), canned food, and even biscuits work so well. It keeps them occupied and entertained, and stimulates a good rewarding system, once they can reach the tasty treat inside.

In all honesty, my large cross Pointer-Husky, Bloo, devours anything inside the KONG in less than 10 minutes. But no matter how hard and long he chews, the KONG rubber is so strong, he has never managed to break through it. That goes a long way, considering he chews through almost every other dog toy thrown at him!

My other boy, Floyd, who is a tiny terrier, sometimes goes hours on end until he completely cleans through a KONG.

KONG Classic, which you can find in almost any reputable pet shop, definitely recommended!

2. Extra Comfortable Dog Bed

By providing a comfier bed, your dog will be more encouraged to rest during the day. Consider a cave bed if your dog enjoys digging, or go for an orthopaedic option for senior pets. I chose these super fluffy dog beds for both my dogs, and they have loved them ever since. They’re both so comfortable, they’ll go for whichever is available!

The best cozy dog beds are:

• Soft and plush, providing adequate resting space for your dog
• Include a removable, washable cover
• Are water and tear resistant
• Come in lots of different sizes

3. Help Your Dog Feel Relaxed

When home alone, dogs can be triggered into causing trouble, like barking or causing damage to your valuable home! Experts say, by minimising all distractions and potential triggers, and providing a safe zone for your pups, they will be able to feel more relaxed and less anxious, meaning less likely to look for shoes to destroy.

The key is to create a special dog zone, with a few toys and perhaps a slow-feeder, like the KONG we mentioned earlier. Some of us recommend leaving on the television, on some repetitive video content that plays an ongoing audio. This should drown out some of the sounds of the outdoors, meaning the doggies will be less likely to bark.

We have also tried 2-way web cameras, to check in and say hello. This can be calming and reassuring for your dogs, lessening their anxiety in being home alone.

For my two dogs, I have found that separating them actually keeps them out of trouble. Floyd tends to be naughty one, and always looks for entertainment from Bloo, who just wants to rest and relax. So he often turns to throwing pillows around, and even hoarding our shoes back to his bed – without chewing, thankfully!

By taking a few small steps, you can help your dog feel more relaxed, which will overall increase their happiness throughout the week. Make sure you’re also always providing the essentials before leaving any of your pets at home.

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So there we have our top 3 tips for keeping your dogs occupied, relaxed and happy during the day when you’re out of the house. We hope these have been simple and useful!

Adam