Many owners wonder what their pets are up to while their owners are away. People have gone so far as to get their pet another pet or to take their dog to a doggie day care so that their pets will not be too bored during the day. But what do dogs actually do all day when their owners are at work?

Dogs have a sense of daily routine, so most will fall into a pattern of sleeping and playing with chew toys or bones, if provided. Some dogs enjoy looking outside, so if your dog is one of those, make it easy for the dog to view outdoors. Because some unoccupied dogs will get bored if kept inside without stimulation, you might find it wise to get a companion dog.

Large breed dogs, especially, need a great deal of physical activity, so these dogs might be less cooperative if left alone frequently. Young dogs will need activity due to their high energy levels, although they will tire more quickly. Plan ahead, leaving appropriate dog toys and safe bones for your dog. Puppies are more likely to be destructive to the house and also to have accidents when you are away.

Dogs with separation anxiety problems might need to have companionship when you’re not home. Options include a companion dog, a dog sitter, or doggie day care. The use of a crate for your dog can make him or her feel safe, just like it’s his or her own room. This practice might be especially helpful for young or active dogs, since they might be more likely to roam the house and seek adventure, which could turn out to be chewing your shoes or furniture.

Some breeds are more likely to bark at noises or sights they view from the windows. Even other dogs might howl or whine while you’re away. Your neighbors will probably tell you if your dog is barking, howling or whining excessively.

Taking a dog for a walk before you leave is a good way to get the dog some exercise and encourage a calmer wait for you to return. Animal practitioners suggest a 45-60 minute walk in the morning for most active, adult dogs if it will be home alone all day. You should check with your veterinarian, however, about younger dogs, older dogs or dogs that haven’t been physically active.

You can also use the dog’s food to keep him occupied by placing treats inside a dog toy designed to make the dog work for a reward. Other possibilities include dividing the dog’s food into several smaller bowls to be placed around the house. Since many dogs are bred to have a job, research what type of physical or mental stimulation your particular breed needs. Various breeds are bred to hunt, guard or herd. Obedience training, tricks and obstacle course training are also good mental and physical stimulation for some dogs.

Many a dog owner has had this experience: the dog follows the owner toward the door as the owner leaves, as if the dog wants to go for a ride, or at least not be left behind. Then the owner remembers something he forgot and returns to the house. The dog is already headed toward his or her bed, seeming to accept with little resistance that the owner is gone.