How To Keep Your Dog Entertained While Working From Home
For many of us, working from home is a new development. This is a huge transition, especially for our four-footers. While Fido is likely pleased to see his best buddy more often, it can be difficult to keep your dog entertained while working from home, especially if you’re putting in long hours. Below, we’ll delve into a few ways you can keep your pooch engaged throughout the workday.
Play and Training Sessions
Whenever you have a break, try to squeeze in a play or training session. This is a great way to tire out your pooch while still keeping him mentally stimulated. This could be as simple as running around the yard, practicing basic commands, or playing a game of fetch.
Long Walks
Taking long walks when you can is another easy way to make sure your pooch is getting the exercise he needs. Try to get up early and take your dog out for a long walk before “clocking in” at work. This will help get some of Fido’s pent-up energy out so that you’ll be able to focus on your work upon your return.
Puzzle Toys and Snuffle Mats
When in doubt, get your pooch a puzzle toy. These toys reward your dog with treats and also encourage mental stimulation. You can also try a snuffle mat which focuses on engaging your dog’s keen sense of smell. These mats can be filled with kibble or treats and entertain your dog by encouraging him to forage for his rewards. If nothing else, invest in a classic KONG toy. These toys can be filled with peanut butter, creating a long-lasting treat Fido is sure to love.
Create a Dog Den
If you’re having trouble keeping a watchful eye on your dog while working, create a space that’s entirely his own. You can use a bathroom, mudroom, or whatever makes the most sense in your household— just make sure you’re picking an area that’s totally dog safe.
In this room, you can put soft blankets and dog beds, Fido’s food and water bowls, and of course, lots of toys and treats. This will keep your dog entertained for a couple of hours at a time allowing you to tend to your work.
Try to secure the room with a dog gate and leave the door open so that your pooch can still watch you work from afar. That way, you can always sneak a quick peek at Spot during your conference call to make sure he’s a-okay.
Treat Scavenger Hunts
One of the easiest activities you can set up is a treat scavenger hunt. Your dog will love this activity, and it will also show him that spending time on his own can be incredibly rewarding. All you need to do is hide treats (preferably training treats since they can be consumed in larger quantities) throughout your house and let your dog do the rest! Your pooch will have to use his keen sense of smell to find the treats.
Practice Going Out
At the end of the day, remember that you probably won’t get to spend as much time with your furry best friend in the future. While you don’t want to take this time for granted, it’s important that you afford your pooch as a smooth transition for when you return to your workplace.
When you can, practice leaving your pooch at home while you’re out running errands. These little periods of independence will make the transition easier on Fido once he’s spending more time on his own again.
With the help of a few of these tactics, your pooch will be thoroughly entertained allowing you to focus on your work. Enjoy the extra time at home with man’s best friend.
