We all want our pets to be happy and healthy, but how can you tell if your dog is bored? Your dog’s veterinarian can tell you that your dog will communicate when they’re bored, often in ways that will drive you crazy. From shredding the couch to following you around, there are common signs that your dog is bored.

3 Dog Behaviors Indicating Boredom

1. Your Dog Follows You From Room to Room

Is your dog constantly dropping their favorite toy in your lap while you’re trying to finish that big proposal for work? Or following you around the house to the point where you’re beginning to feel claustrophobic? They may be trying to communicate they need something to do. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s nervous behaviors to develop a plan to calm them down and give them independent activities they can do without you.

2. Your Dog Destroys Your Stuff

If you can’t leave your dog alone for more than a minute without them digging in the trash or snacking on the couch cushions, you most likely have a bored pet. Unfortunately for your dog,  they can’t just call up a friend when they’re bored, check out the latest TV, or head over to the park. When your dog has nothing to occupy them, they’ll find a way to occupy themselves, and it often involves your favorite stuff. 

3. Your Dog Tries to Get Your Attention Verbally

Is your dog barking or whining excessively? If your dog is starting to remind you of a cranky toddler with constant verbalization, they may be bored. The worst thing you can do in this situation is to give in to your dog’s demands as they bark, cry, or whine because you’ll be teaching them that pestering you is the most effective way to get what they want. However, be sure to talk to your veterinarian, as excessive verbalization may be a sign of a more serious underlying issue than boredom.  

When you need a caring veterinarian in Columbia, MO to help your pet live a happy and healthy life, you can count on Pet Center, Ltd. They have been providing everything your pet needs, from puppy vaccinations and pet boarding to pet dental care and wellness exams, for more than 30 years. To make an appointment, call (573) 445-3000, or visit them online to learn more about their full-service pet clinic.