Bored old dog

[Coyote_Bandit]

My old dog appears to be bored. For the first time in his life he is getting into all sorts of things - including the pantry which he has somehow learned to open. I'm not quite sure what to do about it. I've actually caught him in the act and scolded him - to no avail. The pantry isn't the only thing he's getting into. He also gets into trash cans, the bathroom cabinets, miscellaneious clutter. All sorts of things. All new behaviors.

He's fed at regular times twice daily. He always has plenty of toys and rawhide chew toys. Weather permitting he is permitted to stay outside as long as he wants. I'm home a fair amount and give him plenty of attention - I'm actually home more now than I was before he started doing this nonsense. But he's an old dog with some fairly serious health problems. His vet has directed that he get no more than 15 minutes of daily activity. I know he'd love to go for a walk but he's just not up for it. Not even a short walk. And he is subject to easily overheating. I know he would enjoy a different diet - but his health problems have responded well to a prescription diet. Treats are mostly limited to baby carrots and apple slices. When I'm gone I leave the radio or tv on.

Any suggestions? What can I do for my little old guy?

[Stinky The Clown]

1. Stnky's prescription: Love your old friend and indulge him his small pleasures

You will be rewarded with unconditional love from a creature who is truly man's best friend.

I have no hints on how to change his new behaviors.

[Coyote_Bandit]

2. He is much loved and

much indulged. He gets almost everything he asks - which isn't a whole lot.

Many mornings he wakes me with doggies kisses much earlier than necessary - sometimes as early as 5 am or before. That is always rewarded with much petting and many belly rubs. By the time he tires of that I'm ready for coffee.

I suspect the getting into stuff is the result of boredom. He loves the outdoors and I know he misses his walks. Weather permitting I leave him out as long as he wants - where he lays and watches the world go by around him. The squirrels don't even tease him any more.

[lukasahero]

3. Nina Ottosson dog puzzle toys might work

They don't require much physical effort, keep the mind entertained and might even act as a replacement for his getting into things because these would be things he'd be allowed to get into. (Hide a treat toys and plush puzzles work, too.)

Check them out here: http://www.bestfriendsgeneralstore.com/unique_dog_toys_c/201_PETN/Challenge+Loving (but you can probably find them on amazon etc...)

[Coyote_Bandit]

4. Thanks!

Those look like great toys even though they're kind of pricey.

A lot of these toys are puzzle treat/food dispensers. I've used various kinds of puzzle food dispensers with my dogs before. They generally work great with dry kibble. Not so great with the fresh veggies and fruit we use for treats (since commercial dog treats are not part of the prescription diets). The old guy has lost a lot of teeth. And there is a second not quite as old dog with even stricter dietary restrictions (he is a renal failure dog).

Might have to try one of these anyway. Not sure what my old guy would do with the plush toy puzzles.

Thanks for the suggestion.

[lukasahero]

5. You can probably find them cheaper online

I just linked to the first site that came up in google.

My pup actually LOVES the plush toy puzzles far more than the food puzzles. (The balls/squirrels etc hidden in the toy squeak and that sends her over the moon.) With all of these toys, you will have to spend at least a little time showing the dog how to use them. It took Bella little while to get the hang of them but now she pulls the insides out faster than I can put them back in. :)

Good luck!

[Coyote_Bandit]

6. You're right

A quick search and I did find them considerably cheaper online.

Based on our food issues and your recommendation I'm going to try a plush toy frst.

Thanks!