Dogs are intelligent, active animals that need both physical exercise and mental stimulation. When they don’t get enough of either, boredom can quickly set in.

At Harriet’s Hounds, we often see how the right combination of walks, sniffing time, breed specific outlets and social interaction can completely transform a dog’s behaviour.

Here are some common signs your dog might be bored—and what you can do to help.

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1. Destructive Behaviour

If your dog is chewing furniture, shoes, cushions, or your doorframes, boredom may be the culprit.

Dogs often look for ways to entertain themselves when they have too much pent-up energy.

Try this:

• Longer or more frequent walks
• Puzzle feeders or enrichment toys
• Rotating toys so they stay exciting

Breed tip:
Working breeds such as collies, spaniels, and shepherds often need tasks as well as exercise, so training games or scent work can help keep their minds busy.

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2. Excessive Barking

Dogs sometimes bark when they’re frustrated or under-stimulated.

If barking increases when you’re out of the house, your dog may be feeling lonely or bored.

Try this:

• A structured daily walk routine
• Food puzzles or frozen enrichment treats
• A midday walk or pop in visit to break up long periods alone

Breed tip:
Guardian breeds and terriers can be naturally vocal, so giving them structured activity and outlets for their energy can reduce frustration barking.

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3. Zoomies at Odd Times

Sudden bursts of frantic energy (the famous zoomies) are normal, but if they happen frequently it might mean your dog hasn’t burned off enough energy.

Try this:

• Off-lead running in safe areas
• Retrieve, hide and seek or recall games
• Short training sessions during the day

Breed tip:
High-energy breeds like spaniels, retrievers, and pointers often benefit from longer walks with lots of sniffing opportunities and some structured ‘games’, not just quick strolls around the block.

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4. Digging in the Garden

Digging is a natural behaviour for many dogs, but it can also be a sign of boredom.

Dogs may dig simply because they have energy and curiosity that isn’t being used elsewhere.

Try this:

• Longer exploration walks
• Sniff-heavy routes
• Scatter feeding in the garden

Breed tip:
Terriers in particular were bred to dig and hunt small animals, so scent games or digging boxes can give them a healthy outlet.

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5. Following You Everywhere

If your dog constantly shadows you around the house, they may be looking for stimulation.

While affection is lovely, dogs also need independent enrichment activities.

Try this:

• Training games
• Snuffle mats
• Short play sessions throughout the day

Breed tip:
Companion breeds such as spaniels or retrievers are naturally people-focused, so mixing social walks with interactive play can help balance their needs.

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6. Restlessness

A bored dog often struggles to settle. You might notice pacing, whining, or constantly trying to get your attention.

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Teaching some dogs to settle can be one of the hardest things to teach,.

Try this:

• Scent games at home
• Hide-and-seek with treats
• Short training sessions

Breed tip:
Highly intelligent breeds like border collies or poodles often need problem-solving activities to feel satisfied.

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7. Weight Gain

If your dog isn’t getting enough activity, weight gain can become an issue over time.

Regular exercise helps maintain both physical health and emotional wellbeing.

Try this:

• Consistent daily walks
• Play sessions
• Interactive feeding methods

Please also consult your vet if you are noticing a rapid weight change.

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Why Breed-Appropriate Outlets Matter

One of the most important things many owners don’t realise is that dogs were originally bred for specific jobs.

When those instincts aren’t given an outlet, boredom and frustration can develop.

For example:

• Herding breeds often love training, agility, and problem-solving
• Retrievers and spaniels enjoy carrying, sniffing, and exploring
• Terriers thrive with digging games and scent work
• Hounds often benefit from long sniffy walks where they can follow scents

When dogs are given opportunities to express these natural behaviours, they are usually much calmer and happier at home.

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The Good News

The solution to many boredom-related behaviours is surprisingly simple: more enrichment and appropriate exercise.

Activities that help include:

• Regular walks
• Social time with other dogs
• Sniffing and exploration
• Training games
• Interactive toys
• Good quality sleep

For busy owners a professional dog walker can also help ensure dogs get the exercise and stimulation they need during the day.

A happy dog is usually a tired, mentally satisfied dog.

Please note it is advisable to have a quick chat with your vet before drastically changing feeding/walking levels and to use your judgement and implement changes gradually.

If you’re based in Warminster, Westbury or Frome and are looking for a professional dog walker or someone to pop in to visit your dogs, please get in contact.