Here’s What Your Dog Wishes You Knew About Their Day Alone at Home
While you’re busy tackling meetings, errands, and life’s hustle, have you ever wondered what your dog is doing at home? According to leading canine behaviorists, the answer might not be as comforting as you’d hope.
Dogs, like humans, thrive on interaction, stimulation, and routine. When those needs aren’t met, they can experience boredom, loneliness, and even anxiety—all of which can impact their happiness and behaviour.
The Hidden Impact of Loneliness
“Dogs are social creatures. When left alone for long hours without adequate mental and physical stimulation, they can develop stress-related behaviors,” explains Dr. Patricia McConnell, an expert in animal behavior and author of The Other End of the Leash. Common signs of distress include excessive barking, destructive chewing, and pacing. McConnell highlights that dogs left in monotonous environments often struggle to self-regulate their emotions, leading to boredom and anxiety.
Why Routine Matters
Victoria Stilwell, star of It’s Me or the Dog, stresses the importance of a consistent daily routine. “Dogs are creatures of habit. Predictability in their day-to-day lives helps them feel secure,” she says. Without structure, dogs may become restless, leading to behaviors that seem “misbehaved” but are actually signs of unmet needs.
For example, dogs may sleep excessively not because they’re relaxed, but because they have no other outlet for their energy. “It’s not a sign of a calm dog; it’s often a sign of boredom,” Stilwell adds.
The Role of Mental Stimulation
“Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for dogs,” explains Karen Pryor, a pioneer of clicker training and positive reinforcement techniques. Interactive toys, treat puzzles, and even simple scent games can engage a dog’s mind while they’re alone. Pryor’s research has shown that even small bursts of mental activity can reduce stress and improve overall well-being in dogs.
Turid Rugaas, author of On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals, agrees. She emphasizes that dogs left in environments without stimulation can become hyper-aware of small disturbances, like noises outside, which can lead to reactive behaviors such as barking or whining. “Providing enrichment helps channel their focus in a positive direction,” Rugaas notes.
How to Brighten Your Dog’s Day
Experts recommend a combination of proactive strategies to ensure your dog’s day is enriching and enjoyable:
Morning Exercise
Start your dog’s day with a walk or play session to burn off energy. Dr. Ian Dunbar, a pioneer in canine training, explains, “Physical activity in the morning sets the tone for a calmer, more relaxed day at home.”
Interactive Toys
Leave puzzle feeders, frozen Kongs, or sniff mats to keep their mind engaged. These items not only occupy time but also mimic natural foraging behavior.
Break Up the Day
If possible, arrange for a midday break. Whether it’s a trusted neighbor, dog walker, or professional service like adventure-based outings, this can provide essential mental and physical enrichment.
Rotate Their Environment
Change up their routine by leaving new toys, moving their bed to a different sunny spot, or introducing novel smells (like a sprig of lavender or chamomile) to explore.
The Case for Adventure-Based Services
For pet parents with demanding schedules, professional services can bridge the gap. Adventure-based outings, like group hikes or beach trips, provide dogs with exercise, socialization, and exposure to new environments—all of which can improve their emotional and physical health. “Dogs are happiest when they feel like part of the action,” says Zak George, a modern dog trainer and YouTube personality. “Activities like these give them a sense of purpose and fulfillment that’s hard to replicate at home.”
Listen to Your Dog’s Needs
Dogs may not be able to tell you how they feel, but their behavior speaks volumes. As Victoria Stilwell aptly puts it, “Your dog’s happiness isn’t just about walks or toys; it’s about creating a life that satisfies their instincts, their mind, and their heart.” By understanding what your dog truly needs, you can ensure they thrive—even when life gets busy.
Whether it’s introducing enrichment activities, breaking up their day, or exploring professional services, there are countless ways to brighten your dog’s day. After all, a fulfilled dog makes for a happier home.