Leaving your furry friend at home when you go to work can be stressful for both human and pup. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. There are lots of creative ways to keep your dog entertained, mentally stimulated, and happy while you’re away. Check out these ideas to keep your dog entertained while you’re at work.
Full disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links. If you choose to purchase something through the links below we will receive a very small commission. Thanks for your support. 🙂
Before You Leave
Before you bid farewell to your furry friend for the workday there are a few things you can do with your dog to set them up for a happy solo day at home. Go for a nice high-energy walk around your home or throw a ball around at the park. This might mean an earlier start for you but giving your dog some good exercise first thing is key to ensuring they’re relaxed and content while you’re away at work.
If your pup has kibble for breakfast you could include this in your morning enrichment time. Throw the kibble a few pieces at a time and allow your pup to chase them/hunt for them before heading back to you for more.
Puzzle Toys
Puzzle toys are a great option as they tick a few doggy happiness boxes. Not only are they fun, but they also engage your dog’s mind and provide a tasty treat! Dog puzzle toys can be filled with treats or use a handful of their daily kibble for a healthier alternative. There are several different types of puzzle toys out there on the market with a range of difficulty levels and price points. The one pictured here is the Paws For Life IQ Puzzle from Pet Circle.
Hire a Dog Walker
You can enlist the help of a trusted local dog walker. They can come and collect your pup from the house take them out for a walk and a play in the park. This not only provides the entertainment of a fun walk but it also helps to break up the time you’re away. With a good dog walker your pup should be well exercised and will probably have a good long nap afterwards which of course is a great way to pass the time too.
If hiring a dog walker isn’t in your budget you might have a friend or neighbour that would be happy to pop in and take your dog for a run around the block while you’re at work.
Interactive Dog Cameras
There is no shortage of home cameras on the market that will help you keep an eye on your dog when you’re not home. If keeping your dog entertained while you’re at work is a high priority it might be worth investing in a camera that dispenses treats too! Some even play soothing music and let you talk to your dog remotely. This two-way interaction can comfort your pup and is fun for you!
The one pictured here is the Dogness Smart Camera Treater.
Doggy Daycare
Your pup doesn’t have to be home alone every day while you’re at work. You could consider taking your dog to a doggy daycare.
Dog Friendly TV or Music
It might sound silly but some dogs really do enjoy watching TV. I know my cavoodle loves watching soccer on the TV. This is not a surprise really, nice green grass, a ball and people running around. Perfect puppy viewing. If you’re worried about leaving your TV on all day you could put it on a sleep timer so it turns off after a few hours. Playing calming music can also help to keep pups chilled out during the day.
Engaging Chew Toys
Durable chew toys, like the classic Kong toys are ideal for long term entertainment. Fill them with treats, kibble or peanut butter and they can keep your dog occupied for hours. Just like any toy you give your dog, make sure the toy is structurally sound, safe and suitable for your dog’s size and chewing habits. Classic Kong toys are available in six sizes, perfect for any pup big or small.
Frozen Treat Toys
You can get even more entertainment time from your Kong by freezing treats or a mixture of yogurt and fruit inside the kong. Slow feeding bowls and lick mats are also a great option. These frozen goodies provide a tasty, long lasting challenge for your pup and perfect for summer time.
Rotating Toys
Just like humans, dogs can get bored playing with the same old toys everyday. A good way to keep them engaged and happy is to simply rotate the toys they have access to. Perhaps hold back a few favourites and only give them to your pup on days you’re away at work.
Kibble Hunt
This one is a nice and simple way to entertain your dog while at work. Sprinkle some kibble through the grass and your pup will have a great time hunting around and finding every last piece! If your dog doesn’t have access to a grassed area while you’re away just scatter some kibble around different areas of your home.
Snuffle Mat
Personally, I’m a big fan of the snuffle mat! They’re generally just a mat with a whole heap of felt pieces attached. You can hide treats or kibble through the felt and your pupper will have a great time “snuffling” and searching for those treats.
There are SO many snuffle mats available these days. I spent ages researching them and trying choose the “best” one and I ended up choosing the Kmart snuffle mat. I have to say it’s the best $15 I have ever spent. Our pup even likes to curl up and nap on hers!
Ice Cube Treats
There are some great ice cube trays available that are larger than your average cube. Made for cocktails these large ice cube tray are also great for frozen pup treats!
Freeze anything suitable for pup to eat like blueberries, yogurt or pumpkin. Fill up with water, pop the tray in the freezer and you’ve got some perfect frozen treats! You can pop these in their bowl to try to avoid too much mess.
See a range of ice cube trays on Amazon. You can also get special Dog Shaped Ice Cube Trays too!
Raid The Recycling Bin
You don’t have to spend lots of money to keep your dog entertained while you’re at work. You have a whole bunch of fun toys right in your recycling bin! Empty plastic bottles, paper coffee cups and cardboard boxes can all become super fun enrichment toys! Simply hide treats inside and watch them go! As with anything you give your pooch, make sure it’s safe before giving it to them.
Keep Them Comfy
Make sure they have a nice comfortable area to rest. When you’re not around your dog is going to spend a lot of the day sleeping. Ensuring they have somewhere comfortable to do so will make their alone time that much better.
Keep in mind that every dog is different. What may be a genius idea for one may not work for another. It’s important to consider your dog’s age, energy level and strength when choosing activities.
If you have a pet camera try leaving them alone for a few hours and watching what they do. This will give you a good indication of how active they are while you’re not around and help you plan the best way to keep your dog entertained while at work.
Quality time together when you are home along with lots of regular exercise will help to make your pup happy and balanced when you’re away too.
What do you find works for your pup? I’d love to hear your ideas! Let’s build this list together!
If you’re looking for the perfect pup for apartment living you might like our article “Best dog breeds for apartments“
