How to Keep Your Dog Busy While You Work

This is a common challenge. Try implementing a toy rotation system where you only make a selection of toys available at any given time, storing the others out of sight. This maintains novelty and interest. Also, consider increasing the difficulty level of puzzles or incorporating higher-value treats. Some dogs respond well to "work-to-eat" toys where they earn portions of their meals through play rather than eating from a bowl. Finally, make sure you're choosing toys that match your dog's natural instincts - herding breeds often enjoy puzzles with moving parts, while scent hounds may prefer nose work games.

Aim for 3-5 distinct activity periods during an 8-hour workday, alternating between different types of engagement. A balanced schedule might include a morning walk before work, a puzzle toy session mid-morning, a chew time after lunch, a brief training session mid-afternoon, and interactive play at the end of the workday. The exact number will depend on your dog's age, breed, and energy level. Puppies and high-energy breeds will need more frequent engagement, while older or lower-energy dogs may be content with fewer, shorter activities. Watch for signs of restlessness or settling to gauge if you've provided the right amount.

This is one of the most common challenges for people working from home with dogs. First, ensure your dog's basic needs are met before important meetings - a potty break, some physical exercise, and access to water. During calls, provide a high-value, long-lasting treat or toy that your dog only gets during meeting times. Kong toys stuffed with frozen peanut butter or yogurt can provide 20-30 minutes of engagement. If barking persists, consider using a white noise machine near your workspace to mask triggering sounds, or set up a designated "quiet zone" in another room with comforting items. For persistent issues, consult a professional trainer to address the attention-seeking behavior.

While individual temperament varies, some breeds are generally more independent and content with alone time. These include many guardian breeds like Great Pyrenees and Mastiffs, who were bred to work independently. Some toy breeds like Chihuahuas can adapt well to apartment living and quiet days. Conversely, breeds with strong working backgrounds or high social needs like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Vizslas often struggle more with extended alone time. However, with proper enrichment and training, most dogs can learn to cope well during work hours. The key is matching the enrichment to the dog's specific needs rather than relying solely on breed generalizations.

Stress and boredom can manifest similarly but have important distinctions. Bored dogs often engage in behaviors like chewing, digging, or barking that seem purposeful but destructive. They may follow you constantly or bring you toys repeatedly. Stressed dogs typically show more anxious behaviors like panting, pacing, trembling, whining, or excessive licking. They may also have changes in appetite, sleep patterns, or elimination habits. Stress behaviors often intensify when you prepare to leave or during specific triggers, while boredom behaviors are more constant. If you suspect stress rather than boredom, consult your veterinarian to rule out medical issues and consider working with a certified behaviorist.

While daycare can be an excellent solution for high-energy dogs, daily attendance may lead to overstimulation or stress for some dogs. Most behaviorists recommend limiting daycare to 2-3 days per week for the average dog. On other days, provide enrichment at home. Watch for signs that your dog may be getting too much daycare, such as coming home overly tired or wired, developing rough play habits, or showing resistance to going. A mixed approach often works best - combining daycare days with home enrichment days and perhaps a dog walker on other days. This provides variety while ensuring your dog's needs are met without becoming dependent on a single solution.

For minimal disruption during work hours, consider these quiet options: Food-dispensing toys like Kong Wobblers or slow feeder bowls, snuffle mats for quiet nose work, lick mats that can be spread with soft foods, chew toys like benebones or nylabones, and soft puzzle toys with fabric elements. Avoid toys with squeakers, bells, or hard surfaces that clatter on floors. Stuffable toys can be prepared the night before and frozen for longer-lasting quiet engagement. Remember that even quiet toys should be used appropriately - super high-value items are best saved for your most important meetings or calls when you need guaranteed quiet time.