How to keep your dog occupied at home

Our ‘new normal’ this year means more of you are asking – how do I keep my dog happy when we’re stuck indoors all day? 

Whether you’re staying home or you’re stuck, you’re in self-isolation, you’ve got a poorly dog, or it’s bad weather, we’ve got some top tips on how to keep your dog occupied when they’re in the house.

Keep your dog entertained

Something hands-off to keep your dog occupied:

  • Fill a toy with peanut butter (xylitol-free) – sticky, nutty and dog-friendly, it should keep them occupied for a while
  • Make toys from your recycling – old plastic bottles, egg cartons, boxes…they’re going to be thrown out anyway, so why not let your dog get some of that pent up energy out by tearing them up. Just keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t swallow anything they shouldn’t.
Minnie enjoys Raise the Woof!

Something a bit different:

  • Make a playlist for your dog…it might sound silly, but dogs do actually enjoy music! In fact, we’ve just released our very first pop song for dogs! You can listen here
  • Get the recipe book out! We’ve got plenty of dog-friendly recipes here, or why not grab yourself a copy of The Happy Dog Cookbook
  • Spa day! Make the most of the extra time at home by giving your dog a good groom. If they’re pro-bath, then a shampoo and towel dry followed by a brush is a great way to bond
  • Anyone for doga? Why not try a couple of sun salutations with your pup – check out this article for more inspiration.

Something active:

  • Playtime rarely gets dull, so grab your dog’s favourite rope, ball or toy and go play, they’ll love you for it
  • Teach your dog a new trick – despite the myth, it is possible! It’s mentally stimulating for your dog and fun for you, too
  • Ever fancied your dog as a sniffer dog? Try scent training at home – check out this website 
  • Go for a walk – if you can go outside for some fresh air, it’s a no-brainer, but if you can’t, we get it – it’s no fun feeling stuck.
Ruby

And something for the evenings:

  • Cuddling up on the sofa after a long day of learning new tricks is the perfect way to relax for the evening
  • Stare into each others’ eyes. Evidence suggests making eye contact with your dog can increase the bonding hormone oxytocin!

8 thoughts on “How to keep your dog occupied at home”

  1. Thankyou for all these tips will definitely try the peanut butter one . We have a small ball that dispenses treats but not easily she likes that. And a frisby looking to that has a pattern on the top into which you can rub cheeses spread a little goes a long way. Our rescue birders collie cross is 10 and a bit now and thanks to you at tails and is healthier because she has an under active thyroid your food is helping her weight loss slowly but surely and her coat is so shiny we no longer buy the omega oils . Thankyou

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  2. We followed the suggestions on your article and the dogs loved it. We also added to the daily routine a grooming session as this is also said to reinforce the human to dog bond and our dogs love it! We all benefit as we have happy dogs, increased levels of oxytocin humans and a less hairy house particularly as its moulting season due to the hot weather approaching .

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    • My ‘Fudge’, also a rescue, is 13. I have tried many different toys but like your ‘Honey’ she totally ignores them. If I throw a ball she looks at me as if to say you threw it so you fetch it! She seems totally contented in herself just pottering about so I’ve stopped worrying about it.

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  3. I tried the recipe he loves it mr brindle loves peanut butter he spent at least a good hour getting at it on a toy thanks for the tip

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