Dogs are naturally curious, energetic, and social animals. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, they can easily fall into boredom—and that’s when unwanted behaviors start to show up. If your dog has been acting out, seeming clingy, or just not like themselves lately, they may be trying to tell you something: "I'm bored!"
In this post, we’re diving into five of the most common signs your dog might be bored—and sharing effective, easy ways to turn things around fast.
🦴 1. Destructive Behavior (Chewing, Digging, Shredding)
When a dog has too much pent-up energy or mental frustration, they’ll find their own way to “stay busy.” Unfortunately, that often means chewing shoes, digging in the yard, tearing up pillows, or getting into things they shouldn’t.
What to Do:
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Rotate toys weekly so they feel “new” again.
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Use puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys like Kongs to keep them occupied.
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Go for structured walks with training built in (like “sit at every corner” or “heel past distractions”).
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Consider giving your pup a job: even carrying a doggy backpack on walks gives them purpose.
🗣️ 2. Excessive Barking or Whining
If your dog is constantly barking at passersby, squirrels, or seemingly nothing at all, boredom could be the root cause. Dogs often vocalize when they don’t have other ways to release energy or express themselves.
What to Do:
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Teach a "quiet" command using positive reinforcement.
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Reduce visual stimuli by closing blinds or using privacy film.
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Use enrichment tools like snuffle mats or hide-and-seek games with treats.
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Give your dog mini training sessions throughout the day. Learning is tiring—and satisfying.
🚶 3. Restlessness and Pacing
Is your dog pacing from room to room, staring at you, or unable to settle? That’s a telltale sign they’ve got energy to burn—but don’t know what to do with it.
What to Do:
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Increase daily physical activity with longer walks, backyard fetch, or dog park visits.
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Try canine fitness activities like balance discs, tunnels, or stairs.
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Break up the day with short play sessions, even 10 minutes at a time.
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Rotate your walking routes to add variety and stimulation.
🍽️ 4. Overeating or Loss of Appetite
Bored dogs might graze all day or stop eating altogether. Just like humans, boredom can impact their appetite and overall health.
What to Do:
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Turn meals into a challenge using slow feeders, lick mats, or snuffle mats.
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Make them work for treats with training games or hide-and-seek around the house.
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Use high-value treats and vary your rewards to keep them engaged.
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Add chewing activities like bully sticks or frozen peanut butter bones for healthy stimulation.
👣 5. Clinginess or Velcro Dog Syndrome
If your dog follows you around like your shadow or gets upset when you leave the room, they might be bored and under-stimulated. While some dogs are naturally affectionate, constant clinginess often means they’re not getting enough independent activity.
What to Do:
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Encourage solo play with toys that keep them engaged (like our CleanPaws™ Dog Paw Cleaner—fill it with peanut butter or treats!).
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Start with short independent sessions, rewarding calm behavior while you're in another room.
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Use crate games or “go to place” training to build independence.
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Leave on calming background noise (like music or dog TV) when you step away.
🐾 Final Thoughts:
Your dog doesn’t need expensive gadgets or nonstop attention—but they do need intentional enrichment. A few small changes to your routine—rotating toys, adding a midday walk, or making meals more fun—can dramatically improve their behavior, mood, and overall well-being.
At BarkPlayground, we’re here to help dogs live fuller, happier lives—and help you strengthen the bond you share. 🐕
Want more tips like these? Follow us on Instagram @BarkPlayground for daily dog hacks, enrichment ideas, and product tips!