Do you have a dog that just seems to be an expert at getting into trouble? When you return home, do you find that your trash cans have been knocked over and your shoes gnawed apart? If so, you have probably wondered why you ended up with such a bad dog -- a cute canine, but one that has you at your wit's ends. The truth is that most mischievous pups aren't truly bad. They are often just restless or bored. And like children, bored pups can get themselves into a whole lot of trouble.
Why is My Dog Restless?
Dogs can exhibit restless behavior in several ways. Some dogs, for example, may wander around the house at night, disturbing everyone's sleep. While other dogs are chewers and will take out their anxieties out on the legs of your furniture or on your window sills. In order to stop these behaviors, it's important to understand the underlying cause of your pup's unease. The following are a few reasons why your pup may be feeling restless:
1. Your Dog is a Pack Animal
Like wolves, dogs are pack animals. And you and your family are your dog's pack. So, when you're not at home, they may feel lonely, anxious and/or restless. In their anxiety, some restless dogs -- especially ones with separation anxiety can become destructive.
2. Boredom
Highly intelligent breeds, such as Australian shepherds and border collies, were bred to make quick decisions while herding flocks of animals. So, these breeds have a tendency to get bored and into trouble if not provided with enough mental and physical stimulation.
3. Not Enough Exercise
Imagine being bred to run miles and then being locked up in a house all day. Unfortunately, that's what happened to many Dalmatians. Because this dog was originally bred to trot alongside carriages for miles, they tend to be high-energy canines that require a lot of exercise. Corgis were bred to herd livestock. Beagles to track and hunt rabbits. Other dogs that need a lot of exercise include sporting breeds and many terriers.
When high-energy canines don't get a good workout, it's not uncommon for them to engage in destructive behaviors.
4. Your Dog is Sick
Dogs that aren't feeling well may appear restless. Because they are in discomfort or even in distress, they may pace about your home or not sleep well at night. Dogs, for example, that are suffering with a life-threatening condition called bloat may appear agitated, uncomfortable and restless. There are a few more signs that you can watch for to tell if your pet is sick or not feeling well.
5. A Change in Your Canine's Living Situation
Have you added or lost another pet in your home? Have you moved? Some dogs just don't deal well with change and may appear restless or anxious. They may, for example, pace, whine or follow you incessantly around the house.
Ways to Prevent Having A Restless Dog
If your pup's behavior is becoming an issue, the first thing you'll want to do is to determine which factor(s) may be causing your pet's restlessness. If your pup appears to be in physical distress, have a veterinarian examine your dog for any illnesses or conditions, such as arthritis. Your vet can then advise you on possible treatment options, which could include medication. 
If your dog's restlessness is not health related, your pet may just have excess energy to burn.
There is a reason why people often make the comment that a tired dog is a good dog. A tired dog will sleep the day away instead of engaging in destructive behavior. Of course, in today's busy world, it's not always possible for families to find the time to walk their dogs a few extra miles each day.
Doggy Daycare
One solution? Consider signing your pooch up for doggy daycare. Spending several hours a day romping with other canines is one sure way to tire out and socialize your dog. Being at doggy daycare can also provide the mental stimulation and enrichment that your pup may need.
Another plus? Dogs that aren't home can't destroy your belongings.
Toys to Keep Their Mind Busy
And for those times when you have to leave your dogs at home or in a crate, do them a favor. Provide them with toys that will keep them engaged and busy for a while.
A favorite with many dog owners is the Kong toy. It can be filled with treats such as peanut butter, dog food or yogurt and then frozen. Dogs need to engage their brains in order to get their treats out, which will help keep them mentally stimulated and engaged while they are home alone. Our staff can recommend some toys that can provide your dog enrichment.
For More Info:
Interested in learning more about doggy daycare? Then, please contact Central Pet for more information about our doggy daycare services or sign up for a temperament test to get started. We truly love giving pooches a fun and exciting place to go when they can't be with their beloved humans.
