Stop Boredom Before It Turns Into Bad Behavior
When there are no dog toys and nothing to do, a bored dog can create real chaos. Many owners mistake this for bad behavior, but often it is simply boredom. You leave for work and your sweet companion is curled up on a blanket looking peaceful; you come home and the house is upside down.
Boredom and separation anxiety can affect any dog, whether large or small, indoor or outdoor. Different breeds need different amounts of exercise, but every breed needs mental stimulation. Without it, dogs can become frustrated and unhappy, and that is not what we want for our best friends. Most of us must work and cannot stay home all day, so make a plan for mental stimulation before you head out the door.
What You Need for the Plan
Toys are the key. Buy toys for your dog so they stay mentally stimulated and happy. Dog toys keep your dog interested, active, and excited, and they make great doggy babysitters.
- Teach your dog which toys belong to them and which things are yours, and encourage play with their own toys only.
- Take time to show them how to use their toys by playing together.
- Check toys often for signs of damage, since even high-quality dog toys can break, and consider supervision with some toys.
Which Toys Should You Buy?
Choose high-quality toys that hold your dog's interest. The best toys are interactive and keep your dog engaged every time they play.
Popular Toy Choices
- Kong Toy: A very popular rubber toy that is close to indestructible and keeps both mind and jaws occupied. It is made of rubber and can bounce, with a hollow center for edible treats such as dog biscuits and peanut butter. Your dog works to earn little bits of doggy treats from the Kong toy.
- Kong Stuff a Ball: Made of the same sturdy rubber as the original Kong dog toy, but with rubber ridges that work great for cleaning your dog's teeth.
- Rope Toy: Rope toys are chew toys your dog can interact with and chew on. They come in all sizes and improve dental health as well.
Variety keeps life interesting, so rotate your dog's toys each day to keep them interested. Remember, don't rely on toys alone. Play with your dog as much as possible when you are home and give plenty of one-on-one time and the attention they crave. Put a toy away if your dog becomes bored with it; when you bring it back after a few days, it will spark their interest all over again.
Keep Exploring
Learn more about separation anxiety and browse our dog toys guide, then head back to the Chihuahua breeder home page.
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