Favorite Things - “Back to School: Home Alone Paws”
Every week, we'll bring you the coolest finds for dogs and their humans, from the trendiest gear to wellness must-haves. Whether it's the latest in pet tech, chic accessories, or delicious treats, we've got you covered. Tune in every week for a curated selection that will make tails wag and hearts melt.
Ah, it’s that time of year again. The kids are grabbing their backpacks, throwing on their new kicks, and heading back to school, which means one thing: your dog is about to notice the house is a whole lot quieter.
While we’re all adjusting to new routines, let’s not forget about the pups who now have more solo time on their paws. Just because the house is quieter doesn’t mean your dog has to feel lonely or bored. This week, we're focusing on how to create a comfortable, engaging environment for dogs left home alone.
From interactive toys to cozy beds and treats, we’ve curated a list of must-haves for ensuring your dog stays as happy as ever when they’re home alone.
For the pups who love a mental challenge, puzzle toys are perfect. The Outward Hound puzzles come in various difficulty levels and are designed to keep your dog working to uncover hidden treats. Not only do these toys provide mental stimulation, but they also help alleviate anxiety by keeping your dog focused on the task at hand.
A great option to keep an eye on your dog while you're away is the Furbo Dog Camera. This interactive pet camera not only lets you monitor your dog via a 1080p HD video feed but also comes equipped with two-way audio and treat-tossing features. You can talk to your dog, hear their responses, and even toss them a treat remotely. It also sends barking alerts and has night vision, so you're always in the loop about your pet’s behavior.
Looking for a way to keep your pup busy for hours while they’re home alone? The Tennis Tumble Puzzle Toy from Wild One is the ultimate enrichment toy. This 2-in-1 toy features a durable, natural rubber barrel with a hidden tennis ball inside, making it a perfect challenge for dogs who love to roll, paw, and problem-solve.
Snuff mats are an amazing option for dogs who love to sniff and forage.The Injoya PB&J Snuffle Mat from Injoya is designed to stimulate your dog's senses and keep them entertained for hours. This durable enrichment toy encourages natural foraging behaviors with hidden treat compartments, while its built-in lick mat offers an extra layer of fun. It's perfect for dogs who need mental stimulation and helps relieve anxiety, making it a great addition for dogs spending more time home alone.
After a good play session, your dog deserves a nap spot that’s fit for royalty. The FurHaven Orthopedic Sofa Bed provides soft, supportive comfort that’s perfect for older dogs or pups who love to lounge. The raised edges give them a sense of security, and the orthopedic support is excellent for joint health.
Just like weighted blankets can help humans feel secure, dogs can benefit too! The Weighted Calming Blanket from Canada Pooch offers your dog a comforting solution for stressful days. Designed to mimic the calming effect of a gentle hug, this blanket uses an evenly distributed weight to create a sense of security. Perfect for pups who experience anxiety, the blanket also features a lavender scent for added relaxation. It comes in three sizes and has a soft, plush cover that’s machine washable, making it easy to maintain.
The Adaptil Calming Diffuser mimics a dog’s natural pheromones, which helps create a calm and soothing environment. It’s a great solution for dogs who might feel nervous when the kids leave for school. Plug it in near your dog’s favorite nap spot, and let the calming vibes flow.
For a tough, long-lasting chew that's a bit different from the usual, try The Himalayan Dog Chew is a long-lasting, natural chew made from hardened yak and cow milk. Known for its durability, this chew is perfect for dogs who love to gnaw. It’s a healthy, digestible treat that provides hours of entertainment while also promoting dental health. Free from preservatives and artificial ingredients, this a great choice for dogs that need to stay occupied while home alone.
Going back to school doesn’t have to be a tough transition for your dog. With the right combination of interactive toys, cozy spaces, calming products, and long-lasting treats, your pup will feel content, engaged, and relaxed while you and the kids are out for the day.
