Cures for Cabin Fever

When it's cold and blustery outside, it's only natural that we humans become less active, shunning outdoor activities in favor of those that take place in nice warm buildings. Unfortunately for our dogs, that means fewer walks and fewer trips to the park and that is the recipe for bored dogs. Bored dogs look for ways to entertain themselves, often in inappropriate places, such as the garbage can, the laundry basket, or by pestering the cat.

A trip to one of the many indoor dog parks that are sprouting up all over the country may be just what the doctor ordered and a day or two a week at a doggie daycare like Camp BowWow will help them burn off all that excess energy too. You might also consider signing up for obedience or agilty classes at your local dog training center or pet store. If you're too busy to get out you can invite a trainer into your home from a company such as Dog Training in Your Home. You can find a list of trainers and training facilities at the Association of Pet Dog Trainer's website.

But cabin fever can be cured at home as well with games, such as those you will find inside this blog and fun toys that keep your dog's mind engaged. One of the most inexpensive and fun toys that you can provide for your dog is a bottle or jug with a bit of kibble and treats inside of it. If your dog is particularly fidgety, you can give him all of his meals from his feeding bottle or from a Kong. It's messy, but effective.

Clever dogs, like clever children, enjoy solving puzzles. Check out fun products from Ethical Pet, Nina Ottoson, Kyjen for some cabin fever cures that will keep both you and your pet entertained for hours!