A bored dog ... does that sound crazy? Well frequently both parents work away from home and the kids are at school. So, although dogs no longer have to battle the elements outside, they do have to contend with being home alone during the day, sometimes all day, with little to occupy their time.
What is a good pet parent to do?
Some pet owners like to leave a radio or television on for their dog when they leave. The "white noise effect" does seem to have a soothing effect and thus may have some redeeming features. Think of it this way; any lilting/melodic sound (not "heavy metal") or even just background gibberish is probably better than the sound of silence or a clock ticking on the mantelpiece. Most animals seem to prefer seeing images of other animals or nature programs.
Another good tip is to exercise your dog before you leave. Exercise generates serotonin in the brain and thus has a calming and mood-stabilizing effect on man and beast. A dog that has had a good run for 20 to 30 minutes before the owner departs will be less anxious, more composed, and prepared for a little R & R in the form of a good nap.
If your dog is alone at home for extended periods of time, take a look at the full article on this subject for additional tips: Dogs Home Alone
Also please note that "Type-A" dogs may suffer extreme boredom and stress during their owners' absence. While there is a well-known syndrome of separation anxiety, the bored dog scenario is distinct from separation anxiety and represents the sometimes ingenious attempts of a dog that is bored to find something time-filling to do. My article Dogs Home Alone includes telltale signs that will show if you have a dog that is simply "bored out of his mind".
Go out and have fun with your dog. Take him to the dog park, play fetch, dress him up and take pictures (he won't be bored, but he may be annoyed). Do whatever it is that you and your dog love to do together.
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