keeping dogs from getting bored

I am a new dog person (I've had Phoebe only a week and a half) and I'm still learning about dogs and how they're different from cats. :) So anyway, I was wondering what dogs do all day? I don't want Phoebe to be bored. I got her a stuffed animal (which she isn't interested in), a rope toy (which she isn't interested in), and a rubber bone (which she really isn't interested in)... Do dogs sleep all the time like cats? What else should I try so she won't be bored while I'm at work or doing something?

Thanks so much! :)

Well I am not really sure what to tell you. Is she a puppy? Because if she is a puppy it just may take her awhile to figure out what she likes. Have you tryed a ball for her yet? I know when we are gone my westie just lays around and doesn't do much. I would think if the dog where bored it would be getting into trouble,I know our big dog does,lol. Just a thought you may not want to give her stuffed aniamils because that will teach her it is ok to chew on them and she may get a hold of one of yours of is you have children. Hope this helped a bit.

I read somewhere that adult dogs sleep around 18 hours a day - and I would assume that puppies would sleep at least that long...with those spirts of unbelieveable energy in between :D

I have tried to sneak up on my boys - sometimes with success and have found them to be curled up sleeping - sometimes together, sometimes at opposite ends of the room, so I believe the 18 hour rule!

You will know a bored dog - they start some distructive behavior....getting into the trash, chewing on non-dog items, etc. I think you are doing the right thing by giving the new family member toys....and you know with cats - the dog might end up keeping them company (much to thier dislike sometimes ;) )

Hi & Welcome to Pet Talk hellostranger, Lacie & Smokey Joe's mom & snappy:D


If your dog is a puppy she will probably sleep most of the time while you are gone. I don't think I'd personally be worried about her being bored right now. Do you keep her crated while you are gone?

Thanks for the replies everyone. :) Phoebe is around two years old - she was a rescue dog so the vet isn't sure. I did have her in the crate at first but she is a very well behaved girl - no accidents, no chewing, ignores the cats (when they let her!) - so now she only goes into it if she wants to. I'm probably being silly worrying about her so much and hopefully we'll both feel better as we get used to each other. ;)

I am sure you will get to know her better, and find out her favorite things to do and to chew! Every dog is different, that's the only sure thing! :) If she starts destroying stuff, you'll know she was bored. But everyone who0 has dealt with seperation anxiety in a new dog is completely jealous of you right now!

Its so nice of you to give an older dog a home. I'm sure you will soon be very close. Your cats sure are beautiful!

over weight you can try a Stuffed Kong.

Plug the hole with cheese and stuff it with kibble (dog food)
or small treats. Then pour in fat free yogurt, or peanut butter
baby food works also, smashed banana's. You decide what your dog likes and does best with.

Freeze it Overnight.
put it up right in a cup to prevent it tipping over (hence big mess)

this can entertain your dog for sometime while your gone.