A “naughty” dog is very often just a bored one. Before you reach for training fixes, it’s worth asking whether your dog is getting enough to do. Here are the signs of an under-stimulated dog and some easy ways to fix it.
The short answer
Dogs need physical exercise and mental stimulation. When they don’t get enough of either, that energy comes out as chewing, barking or restlessness. The fix is rarely more sheer running — it’s more variety, more sniffing and a bit of daily problem-solving.
Signs your dog is bored or under-stimulated
- Destructive chewing — skirting boards, shoes, the sofa.
- Excessive barking or whining for no obvious reason.
- Pacing, restlessness or trouble settling.
- Over-the-top greetings and attention-seeking.
- Digging, or inventing their own (usually unwelcome) games.
Easy enrichment at home
You don’t need a cupboard of gadgets. Scatter part of their dinner in the garden, use a snuffle mat or a stuffed Kong, rotate a few toys so they feel new, and let them chew something appropriate. Ten minutes of nose-work can tire a dog more than a half-hour walk.
Why sniffing on a walk matters
Letting a dog sniff isn’t time-wasting — it’s the richest mental workout they get. A slower, sniffy walk genuinely satisfies a dog more than being marched briskly round the block, which is part of why the right routine matters so much; our guide to how much exercise your dog needs goes into the balance.
How walks and adventures help
Variety is everything. Our temperament-matched group dog walks give dogs social time and new places, while a monthly dog adventure day — woods, water and proper space to explore — is enrichment on a different scale. For dogs who prefer their own company, our solo dog walking can be tailored to plenty of sniffing time. Written by Daz of The Dog Walkers, Wythenshawe & South Manchester. Book a free meet & greet.
Related reading: easing separation anxiety and helping a dog through fireworks.