Is Your Dog Bored? Here’s How to Fix It

Mikaeel Malik
Mar 7
4 min read

Golden doodle digging up dirt in the backyard.

Is your dog constantly barking, digging up the yard or chewing on furniture, for no reason? These behaviors might not just be bad habits— they could be signs of boredom. Understanding the symptoms of dog boredom and finding the right enrichment activities can help keep your pup happy, engaged, and out of trouble!

Signs and Symptoms of Boredom: How Might They Affect Your Dog?

Negative behaviors are often signs of boredom and just healthy pups relieving their mental anguish the only way they can think of.

A pug chewing on a blue slipper while laying on a tan carpet.

Easy signs to spot dog boredom

Backyard tunneling projects
Dumpster diving
Constant barking or howling
Jumping on people
Excessive attention seeking
Consistently begging for food
Shoe Chewing
Destroyed furniture

Sneaky Signs of Boredom

However, not every indicator of dog boredom is so loud or destructive. Some dogs may exhibit silent signs that sometimes get missed.

Dogs are naturally polyphasic sleepers but more frequent than usual napping may be a sign your pooch is less than stimulated which can lead to canine obesity.

Some dogs may self lick/chew their paws just to have something to do, while this is a normal grooming behavior over doing it risks the possibility of irritation and infection.

Disinterest in familiar toys and activities like your regular walk may be a sign your puppy isn’t receiving enough stimulation from their environment, this can result in escape as your pups try to find their own entertainment.

These are all very common signs your best friend might be in need of more stimulation. Keep reading to find helpful tips to combat you pups boredom.

Some of these symptoms overlap with separation anxiety, especially when paired with a clingy pooch personality. Meeting with a professional trainer may help to determine which your dog is suffering with.

How to Keep Your Dog Engaged: Physical, Mental & Social Stimulation

Enrichment for your dog breaks down to three key concepts, physical stimulation, mental stimulation, and socialization.

Physical Stimulation

Exercise is a great way to allow your dog to work off excess energy. This doesn’t mean you have to start marathon training with your dog (although that is great for you and your dog) there are many ways for you to increase the amount of activity your dog gets.

Outside Time - One strategy is to simply increase their yard time and number of walks. If your schedule limits how often you’re able to take your dog out, consider hiring a professional dog walker to drop by midday and help your pooch stretch their legs or a pet sitter that offers drop-in playdates to work off some steam in the backyard.
Dog Sports - If you have more time available you may consider taking up dog sports. Some breeds may enjoy the high intensity work out of agility training or treibball (do yourself a favor and google it). Sports like scent training may not be as physical but they provide amazing mental stimulation and socialization as well.

Mental Stimulation

Exercise is great but the same walk, the same yard, the same toys all start to lose their appeal. Providing quality dog enrichment activities like puzzle toys and socialization can prevent boredom.

Scenic Views - Try changing up your walking route to allow your pup to see some new sights and sniff some new sniffs. Taking a different path for each of your daily walks can really be a great way to give your puppy pal a break from the humdrum.
Interactive Toys - Snuffle mats and food puzzles are great to keep your dog occupied but remember, YOU are the most interactive toy. Throwing a ball, hiding treats around the house, or even a DIY giant flirt pole are amazing ways to bond with and tire out your pup.
Dog Hobbies - Dogs were bred for specific jobs, for example terriers were bred to hunt down small vermin. A doggie pool filled with sand to bury favorite toys in is a great way to stimulate a dog prone to digging.
Change Things Up - Hiding toys that have gone to the wayside only to bring them back out later or taking a few minutes out of your normal routine just to give some belly scratches can be a great way to break up the day.

The further reading section below has some great DIY ideas for you to try with your pup. If you struggle to keep your dog stimulated throughout the day perhaps consider hiring a dog walker, trainer or sitter to provide that additional support.

Socialization

two dogs playing tug with a frisbee in the park

Socialization is super important, not just to keep your dog from getting bored but also to teach them critical social and behavioral skills. Ensuring your pup has plenty of play time with other dogs can sometimes be difficult, finding a dog walking group or hiring a dog walker for group walks are great options.

Organizing playdates at local dog parks or participating in dog sports can also be fun for your dog and yourself. Some dogs may have difficulty socializing so work with a professional trainer to make sure your pup has the support they need when making new friends, also consider solo walking services from your local dog walkers.

Keeping Your Pup Happy and Engaged!

Boredom can lead to destructive behaviors, but with the right mix of physical activity, mental stimulation, and socialization, your dog can stay happy and engaged. Whether it’s interactive toys, new walking routes, or playdates, small changes can make a big difference. Keep your pup’s tail wagging by providing the enrichment they need every day!