Dogs are social creatures and need mental and physical activity to keep them happy and healthy. A bored dog will bark, dig, run away or even show signs of aggression. Enriching the home environment with toys and providing plenty of exercise and socialisation will usually halt behavioural problems.

Not everyone has the luxury of having more than one pet, but if you can provide for two instead of one, your pets will have the opportunity to interact with each other throughout the day.

If you work during the day, take a moment to consider the increasing number of home services or doggie day care that is now available.

Day creches are designed to provide for those dogs and cats whose owners often spend much of their day away from home or even if a particular week requires the owner to be away for longer periods of time. Contact your local animal welfare league for more information. There are also numerous dog walking services available. Just look under Pet Care Services in the Yellow Pages directory.

Toys and games
Toys provide a source of amusements for our pets. Give your dog a special toy as you leave each day (and take it away when you return).

Dogs like to tug and pull and those toys that hang, and designed with a durable thong to allow it to stretch, are popular with dogs. Some are designed to hold small biscuits and the dog will learn to play with the toy until a biscuit roles out. More the reason to keep playing with it!

Socialisation and training
Quality time with your pet is important. Invite your pet indoors to sit with you in the evening. The more you interact with your pet, the more frequently it will initiate interactions with you.

During the evening, invite your friends over along with their pooch or take your dog to the leash-free park for a game using fluorescent balls or discs. Some parks are well lit, are small enough to keep your dog close and will inevitably have other people there with their pets.

Stimulation helps to prevent boredom so taking your dog to a training class on the weekend will provide your dog with a weekly dose of interactive fun and games. Teaching your dog tricks or simply playing 'hide-and-seek' are all ways to keep your dog entertained and prevent noisy or destructive behaviours.