31/03/2026
In 2014, a study asked people to sit alone in a room for just 15 minutes with nothing to do. No phone, books, tv, music or window. Surprisingly, many found it so difficult that they chose to press a button that gave them an unpleasant electric shock rather than sit in boredom!
It really makes you think… if we struggle with just 15 minutes, how hard must it be for our dogs to cope with hours of little stimulation, no company, and nothing to do?
Our dogs aren’t being “naughty” — they’re just trying to cope the only way they know how. Barking, digging, chewing… these can all be signs they need a little more enrichment, connection, or activity.
The good news is, it doesn’t take hours to make a big difference. Managing your dogs environment can go a long way to elevating some common behaviour problems.
Even as little as 30 minutes of your time — a walk, a game, some training, play or enrichment — can mean the world to your dog. It is the highlight of their entire day 💛
All behaviour is communication, so next time your dog does something that frustrates you, try pausing and instead of ‘how do I stop this?’ Try asking “why?” Is my dog doing this? You might just discover an opportunity to better understand them and strengthen your bond 🐾
