Just ordered "barkbox" to try to keep things interesting.

This video/treat interactive device arrives today to try - perhaps the kids from college can log in. link

bored, upset dogs can get destructive.

Only one option... Have another kid.

We had the same problem. Got a pup. The older guy is now active & healthy.

quote:

Originally posted by jmalb:
Only one option... Have another kid.

I think I like SilverWolf's suggestion better
We actually still have two teenagers still at home.

quote:

Originally posted by 4x5:
I really like the idea of hiding a small treat under a cup and see if she can get to it.

That'll be good for 5-10 minutes, once or twice a day. You'll need to have a variety of things so you don't get too bored yourself and give up after a couple of weeks.

Something along the same line is feeding via a toy like a treat ball. Both of the below-linked worked well for my current dog, but I discontinued using them because she's a very eager eater and was doing damage to/with them. She slammed the fat-bowling-pin one into the walls a lot, marking up the paint. The ball one came in contact with the baseboards a lot, but I don't recall it doing much damage. Problem with it was she could get it in her mouth, and would eventually break it.

https://www.amazon.com/StarMar...ywords=dog+treat+toy

https://www.amazon.com/OurPets...words=dog+treat+ball

Here she is in action with the ball:




Link to original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6CHlGgi5WY&t=56s

Play, and socialization.

Dogs in general are social creatures. The NEED a pack... and if the pack gets disrupted it upsets the balance.

Take them to a dog park, and let them play. Good hard exercise... long walk or runs. Get working dogs a "job" retrievers fetch, herding dogs herd, or whatever type of work they were bred for.