Thanks to COVID-19 we’re home a lot more than we used to be, which can be a dream come true for our furry friends. They’ve loved seeing more of us and we’ve gotten the benefit of unlimited love and affection. However, getting to spend more time around our dogs has had some unintended consequences. They might not be used to having to stay on the sidelines and entertain themselves during work hours, and you might have had to “vanish” a few of your dog’s more strident squeaky toys in the name of productivity. If you’ve had a hard time keeping your dog entertained while working from home, you might just need to expand your toy collection so they can feel loved even when you have to work. Here are a few options for keeping your dog stimulated during your 9-to-5, making sure they’re staying happy and healthy while you stay productive.
1. Hear Doggy! Ultrasonic Squeaker Dog Toy
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By this stage of working remotely, you’ve probably placed an embargo on any dog toy that makes too much noise. If your dog is missing their favorite squeeze toy, there’s a happy compromise: an ultrasonic toy that your dog can hear and you can’t!
2. Outward Hound Interactive Puzzle Game
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If you’re looking for a way to make mealtime more fun, try introducing a game element to your dog’s daily feeding. It’ll encourage your dog to slow down when eating and give them the stimulation of solving a puzzle, keeping them occupied for longer.
3. KONG Classic Dog Toy
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If your dog’s having a hard time understanding your work schedule, filling this KONG toy with a treat will keep them engaged and invested. Anything from a handful of treats to a serving of peanut butter hidden inside will have your dog off in their own little world for a good while.
4. PAW5 Wooly Snuffle Mat
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This snuffle mat can be a great way to introduce a new element to dinner time for your furry best friend. While your dog hunts for their food in the folds of the mat, it helps their digestion by extending the the amount of time between bites and helps them feel like a real forager.
5. Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Squeaky Puzzle
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This outdoorsy toy is two games in one. You can use the squirrels to play fetch or, if you have to clock out of play time, hide them in the “tree trunk” for your dog to investigate. Either way, your dog will be left feeling stimulated and loved.
6. Puzzle IQ Treat Ball
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As your dog plays with this treat ball they’re rewarded for being active and playing, giving them a great way to pass the time while you work. Simply stock the ball with your dog’s favorite treats and watch them become enthralled.
7. ALLRIER Dog Chew Toy
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If your dog is a big fan of tug-of-war but often lacks a partner, this toy will be perfect for them. Your dog can get a full day of play with the encouragement of a few hidden treats; this suction cup can hold up under even the roughest play until you’re ready to put it away and give your dog some well-earned cuddles.
Your dog might not be able to understand the intricacies of your work-life balance, but they can tell when they’re being ignored and when they’re being cared for. If your dog has started acting up around the house, why not take some time and show them you care by investing in making your house a more fun place for them to be? By giving them a way to entertain themselves you’re not only buying yourself some uninterrupted work time, but you’re sending them a message that they’re cared for as well.
