In a perfect world, dog owners would be allowed to bring their dogs into the office or have the freedom to work from home with their pooches by their sides. Unfortunately, these situations aren't possible with every job, and that means there are many dogs who are left on their own for long periods. Identifying and addressing signs of boredom in your dog can help keep them active and occupied and discourage chewing, barking, and other disruptive behaviors. Below are a few indicators of boredom and some veterinarian approved ways to alleviate this condition.

3 Symptoms of Dog Boredom

1. They're Destructive

A bored dog may fill their time by acting out. This could involve chewing on furniture; scratching and digging on walls, floors, or doors; and eating items not meant for their consumption. To counteract this, ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise both before and after you get home; they'll naturally be more relaxed when left to their own devices. Also, give your dog activities to focus on while you're gone; for instance, KONG® toys, stuffed with frozen treats, can keep a dog occupied for hours, and stuffed toys, puzzles, and even the television can be good distractions.

2. They're Barking or Whining to Excess

Obviously, dogs can't speak to us, so they will often use the sounds they can make to communicate how they're feeling. Barking or whining excessively, either when you're present or when you're not, could be a way of expressing the need for attention and engagement.

A good way to address this is to establish a routine and stick to it. Have designated walk times, play times, and feeding times. As any veterinarian can attest, dogs and cats thrive on schedules and routines. When they know what to expect and when, they will naturally be less anxious and bored.

3.  They Stick to Your Side When You're at Home

This isn't always a reason for concern as a lot of dogs are, by nature, lovebugs who want to stay in close proximity to their people. But if a dog bounds up with excitement every time you make even the slightest movement, it may indicate boredom and a surplus of energy that needs to be worked off. Again, the remedy is frequent physical exercise. Add another walk into the daily routine, play another game of fetch or tug-of-war, or let the pooch have the run of a fenced-in yard or an off-leash dog park for a while.

If these solutions don't cure your dog's boredom, have them checked out by a veterinarian to ensure there are no medical issues causing them distress. Also, consult your veterinarian for doggie daycares in your area; these facilities are designed to keep dogs active, engaged, and safe while their owners are away. Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital has two locations in Boone County, MO. Their services include wellness exams, spaying and neutering, pet boarding, and grooming. Call (573) 449-3791 or visit them online to schedule an appointment.