20 Dog Boredom Busters: What To Do When Your Dog Is Bored
We’ve all been there: You’re on a call while your dog looks like they’re telepathically messaging you, “Take me for a walk.” Or they start barking, whining—or chewing your favorite shoe. They’re bored.
What can you do? Find some dog boredom busters to entertain your pet. “If you can give them the enrichment they enjoy and it fulfills them, they’ll be the most content after the activity,” says Jenny Wyffels, CPDT-KA, a certified dog trainer in Geneseo, Illinois.
Keep in mind—not every boredom-buster is suitable for each dog. Safety, supervision, and knowing what activities truly engage your furry friend are essential.
What To Do If Your Dog Is Bored
If your pup is bored, these 20 boredom busters might bring excitement back into their daily routine—and even deepen the bond between you and your furry best friend.
1. Dog Puzzles
Chew toys that double as puzzles challenge your dog to use problem-solving skills—and their paws and nose—to uncover kibble, treats, or squeaky toys hidden inside compartments.
“It’s an opportunity to engage in something by themselves, gives enrichment, and some of the mental stimulation a dog needs,” says Blake Gibson, DVM, a veterinarian with Texas Veterinary Behavior Services in Sugar Land, Texas, and a resident of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists.
2. Dog Food-Foraging Toys
A cousin to puzzle toys, food-foraging tools turn mealtime into an adventure. Instead of using a traditional bowl, dogs work to find kibble or treats tucked into snuffle mats, lick mats, or treat-dispensing toys—relying on scent and instinct rather than speed.
“One of the things we say is no more feeding out of a bowl,” Dr. Gibson explains. “We recommend to our clients that they engage their dog with a food toy or quick training session instead. This way, the dog has the opportunity to learn with them versus scarf down a meal and return to waiting for the next one.”
3. Chews and Chew Toys
A long-lasting chew toy might keep your pup happily occupied during your entire conference call—wouldn’t that be nice? Options include digestible chews like Himalayan yak, bully sticks, and natural chews, plus durable non-digestible options made from nylon or rubber.
Always supervise your dog with chews—especially if they’re a powerful chewer.
4. Treasure Hunts
Turn everyday treats and toys into an indoor or outdoor scavenger hunt. Hide your dog’s favorite items around the house or yard and encourage them to use their natural hunting instincts to track them down. “It’s a great way to increase their confidence, and they’ll think it’s great fun,” Wyffels says.
5. Dine Out With Your Dog
Get out of the house and enjoy al fresco dining together. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated its food safety guidelines to allow dogs in outdoor restaurant areas—where local laws and establishments permit.
6. Sniffing Safari (Sniffari)
Dogs explore the world through scent—and nose work is one of the most enriching activities you can offer. On walks, let your dog pause to sniff trees, bushes, fire hydrants, and other landmarks—their version of checking “pee-mail.”
Mix up routes to introduce new smells. Use a long, safe lead (over 6 feet) to give your dog room to investigate at their own pace.
“Sniffing, searching and hunting are the most enriching activities we can give our dogs,” Wyffels emphasizes.
7. Play Ball
From classic tennis balls to glow-in-the-dark or squeaky varieties, fetch delivers excellent physical exercise—a tired dog is rarely a bored one. Try a ball launcher to extend playtime, or choose interactive balls that keep your dog engaged independently.
8. TV Time
Some dogs genuinely enjoy watching television—especially programs with movement, high contrast, or familiar animal sounds. Leaving the TV on can provide comforting background noise while you’re away—unless your dog reacts by jumping, barking excessively, or howling.
“If having some background noise on while you’re out of the house helps your dog, then that’s a good option,” Dr. Gibson notes. “I had a client whose dog enjoyed watching ‘Friends’ while they were out.”
9. Flirt Pole
A flirt pole is like a giant cat teaser—but designed for dogs. A long pole with a line and lure invites chasing, pouncing, and tug-of-war play. You can even make a simple DIY version with a pole, rope, and a favorite toy. It’s perfect for keeping your dog mentally and physically engaged—even while you’re on a work call.
10. Dog Training
Training isn’t just for puppies—it’s lifelong enrichment. Whether you attend group classes or practice at home, teaching cues, tricks, or sport-specific skills (like agility, nose work, or disc) builds confidence and strengthens your connection. You can even set up backyard agility equipment for fun, low-pressure sessions.
11–20. More Boredom-Busting Ideas
While the first ten ideas offer rich variety, here’s a quick list of additional effective strategies:
- Rotating toy libraries — Swap out toys weekly to maintain novelty
- DIY cardboard box forts — Safe, crinkly, and endlessly destructible
- Scent-based games — Hide treats under cups or towels for “find it” challenges
- Calming music playlists — Specifically composed for canine relaxation
- Interactive feeders — Like FurPetVo’s slow-feed bowls and treat-release puzzles
- Car rides (with safety harnesses) — New sights, sounds, and scents
- Visits to new parks or trails — Fresh terrain sparks curiosity
- Playdates with trusted dog friends — Social enrichment matters
- Clicker training sessions — Short, positive, and rewarding
- Homemade frozen treats — Yogurt, peanut butter, and banana blends in ice cube trays
Remember: The best boredom busters match your dog’s energy level, temperament, and physical ability. Start small, observe closely, and follow your dog’s lead. For vet-approved tools, training guides, and enrichment resources, visit furpetvo.com.
