10 Boredom Busters for Dogs Home Alone

Because a bored dog is a mischievous dog (and your couch won’t survive it)

1. Interactive Puzzle Toys

Treat-dispensing puzzle toys are like sudoku for dogs—only the reward is food instead of smug satisfaction.

These toys make your dog think and work for their snack. Whether it’s a stuffed Kong, a snuffle mat, or a treat ball that rolls around unpredictably, your dog will spend ages trying to crack the code.

Grumpy Old Max:

“If I wanted to work for my food, I’d get a job. But fine, I’ll chew this plastic donut until it gives up the goods.”



Bonus tip: Freeze a Kong filled with peanut butter, mashed banana, or dog-safe yogurt to make it last longer.

2. Doggy Window View

Give your dog a safe spot by the window where they can watch the world go by—birds, cars, delivery people (aka “The Enemy”), and neighbours daring to walk past their territory.

A perch or open blind can provide hours of visual stimulation.

Grumpy Old Max:

“They call it ‘people watching.’ I call it ‘security surveillance.’ And yes, that postman is suspicious.”

3. Audio or Video Entertainment

No joke—some dogs love watching TV or listening to music.

There are even streaming services made just for dogs, playing calming sounds, nature scenes, or slow-moving animals to help ease anxiety and reduce boredom.

Classical music or soft reggae can also work wonders.

Grumpy Old Max:

“I don’t care what you say, Beethoven slaps. But if you leave me with EDM again, I’m eating the TV remote.”

4. Scent Work & Hidden Treats

A dog’s nose is their superpower. Use it to keep their brain busy with scent games. Hide treats around the house or place a few in rolled-up towels or cardboard boxes for them to sniff out and discover.

Even a basic game of “Find It” keeps them mentally sharp and gives them a job to do.

Grumpy Old Max:

“I can find a crumb under a fridge from three suburbs away. Challenge accepted.”

5. Chew Toys (The Safe Kind)

Dogs have a natural urge to chew—especially when bored or anxious. Provide durable, safe chew toys made of rubber, nylon, or rawhide alternatives. Rotate them regularly to keep your dog interested.

Avoid toys that can be torn apart and swallowed while you're out.

Grumpy Old Max:

“Give me something I can destroy and then act shocked when I do. Typical.”

6. Frozen Treats and DIY Ice Blocks

Beat boredom and the heat with frozen dog treats. Use silicone moulds or ice cube trays filled with low-sodium broth, veggies, or fruit (like blueberries or apple slices—no grapes!).

You can even freeze toys or chews into blocks of ice for a longer-lasting challenge.

Grumpy Old Max:

“You froze my lunch in a block of ice. What am I, a polar bear? Fine, I’ll take it.”

7. Dog-Safe Destruction Zones

Dogs love to rip stuff apart. So why not give them something they’re allowed to destroy? Make a “shred box” filled with newspaper, old hand towels, or cardboard rolls with treats hidden inside.

Just make sure it’s safe—no staples, plastic, or dangerous materials.

Grumpy Old Max:

“You humans have stress balls. We’ve got cardboard carnage. Very therapeutic.”

8. Rotation of Toys

One of the simplest ways to keep your dog engaged is to rotate their toys every few days.

Just like kids, dogs get bored with the same old stuff.

Hide half the toys in a box and bring them back in a few days. Suddenly, it’s like Christmas.

Grumpy Old Max:

“New toy? Nah. Old toy that’s been missing for three days? BEST. DAY. EVER.”

9. Interactive Pet Cameras

Want to check in on your pup and even toss them a treat while you’re at work?

Pet cameras with two-way audio and treat launchers let you interact with your dog remotely.

It’s like FaceTiming your best mate—only with more tail wags and less talking.

Grumpy Old Max:

“Wait... you’re watching me right now? Well, I guess I won’t eat your slippers... for now.”

10. Hire a Dog Walker or Set Up a Playdate

Sometimes, nothing beats real social interaction. If you’re regularly out for long hours, a midday visit from a dog walker can break up the day, give your dog some exercise, and help relieve pent-up energy.

You can also arrange doggy playdates with trusted friends or neighbours.

Grumpy Old Max:

“A visitor halfway through the day? It’s like a parole break with snacks and belly rubs.”

Bonus Tip: Consider Doggy Daycare

If your dog really struggles being alone—or you know your schedule will be hectic—doggy daycare might be worth exploring.

A good daycare offers structured play, rest, socialisation, and trained staff to supervise.

Grumpy Old Max:

“Daycare? I’d rather nap in peace. But hey, if your dog’s the social butterfly type, send ‘em. I’ll stay home and guard the couch.”

Signs of Boredom and Loneliness in Dogs

Recognising when your dog is bored (or worse, lonely or anxious) is key to preventing destructive behaviour.

Watch for:

• Excessive barking or howling
• Chewing furniture, doors, or themselves
• Pacing or restlessness
• Escaping or digging
• Overexcitement when you return

If your dog shows these signs, try mixing and matching the boredom busters above—or consult a vet or behaviourist for extra support.



Grumpy Old Max:

“If your dog’s acting up, they’re not being ‘bad’—they’re bored, confused, or missing you. We’re loyal like that. Annoying, but loyal."

Final Thoughts: Leave the Guilt at the Door

You’re not a bad dog owner for having to go to work or run errands. Life happens. The key is preparation, variety, and a little creativity to keep your dog safe and happy while you’re away.

Mix up mental stimulation, physical activity, and safe chewing. Use tech when it helps. And most of all—remember that when you get home, your dog’s been waiting all day just for you.

Grumpy Old Max’s Parting Words:

“Yeah, we get bored. But we’ll still be wagging our tails like lunatics the moment you walk through that door. That’s love, my friend. Now throw the ball already.”

Want more real-world dog advice with a side of canine sarcasm?

Stick with Wagwise and Grumpy Old Max—because raising a dog should be fun, not frustrating.