Snuggle Puppy Blog

Is My Puppy Bored? How to Spot It and What to Do About It

Snuggle Puppy Blog

Is My Puppy Bored? How to Spot It and What to Do About It

by Jacquelyn Zaffos on Aug 06 2025
We often think a quick game of fetch or a daily walk is enough to keep our puppies happy. While exercise is important, mental stimulation and emotional comfort are just as essential, especially during those long stretches between walks or when you're away from home. Puppies are incredibly curious and eager to learn, which means they can become under-stimulated and bored more easily than we realize. Let’s explore how to tell if your puppy is bored and what you can do to break the cycle. Signs Your Puppy Might Be Bored Puppy boredom doesn’t always show up the way you’d expect. Here are a few common signals to watch for: Destructive Chewing: Tearing into shoes, furniture, or anything they can find? That may be boredom, not bad behavior. Excessive Barking or Whining: A vocal pup might be trying to tell you they need more attention or stimulation. Restlessness or Pacing: Especially in the evening or after a nap, a bored puppy may seem unable to settle down. Digging (even indoors): This instinctive behavior can ramp up when a pup is looking for something to do. Attention-Seeking Behavior: Jumping, pawing, or stealing items just to get your reaction. 5 Ways to Break Up Puppy Boredom 1. Offer Comfort for Quiet Moments While play is essential, so is rest—especially for young pups. When your puppy is feeling lonely or unsettled, comfort is the first need to meet. The Snuggle Puppy provides physical and emotional comfort with a real-feel heartbeat and optional heat pack. It’s a proven boredom-buster for crate time, travel, and everyday calming. Best for: Nap time, crate training, and solo downtime. 2. Switch Up Toys Regularly Just like kids, puppies get bored of the same toys day after day. Rotating toys every few days can make old toys feel new again. The Tender-Tuffs collection includes soft yet durable toys in various textures, squeakers, and shapes – perfect for mental engagement and gentle play. Try this: Introduce one new Tender-Tuffs toy each week and rotate between play styles (tug, fetch, chew, cuddle). 3. Build in Brain Games Mental stimulation is often the missing piece. Try puzzles, treat-dispensing toys, or even a simple game of “find the toy.” Easy enrichment ideas: Hide treats in a snuffle mat or around the house Freeze kibble in an ice cube tray for a cool challenge Teach a new trick each week (start simple: sit, paw, spin) 4. Create a Daily Routine Puppies thrive on predictable structure. Having a general flow to the day—meals, naps, training, play, potty—can reduce anxious or bored behavior. Even a short 10-minute training or toy rotation can go a long way. Consistency provides comfort and prevents your pup from getting into mischief while “waiting for something to happen.” Boredom is Natural and Solutions are Simple Every puppy experiences boredom from time to time. It’s part of growing up! But with a few simple adjustments, you can offer your puppy the comfort, enrichment, and attention they need to stay balanced and happy. When in doubt, start with comfort. The Snuggle Puppy plush paired with a rotating variety of Tender-Tuffs toys makes for a well-rounded, boredom-busting toolkit.
Keeping Your Dog Safe on the 4th of July

Snuggle Puppy Blog

Keeping Your Dog Safe on the 4th of July

by Anjilla Skotak on Jun 06 2024
The 4th of July is a time of celebration, filled with fireworks, barbecues, and gatherings. However, it can be a stressful and dangerous time for our pets. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), more pets go missing on the 4th of July than any other day of the year. The loud noises and chaotic environment can cause pets to become anxious and, in some cases, even run away. Here are some essential tips and products to keep your pets safe and comfortable during the festivities. 4th of July Pet Safety: Surprising Facts You Need to Know Fireworks Anxiety: Approximately 45% of dogs show signs of fear when they hear fireworks. Increased Sheltering: Animal control officers across the country report a 30-60% increase in lost pets between July 4th and July 6th. Noise Sensitivity: Cats and dogs have much more sensitive hearing than humans, making the loud booms of fireworks particularly distressing for them. Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe Create a Safe Space: Designate a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your pet can retreat. This could be a room with minimal windows to help muffle the sounds of fireworks. Stay Indoors: Keep your pets inside during fireworks displays. Even pets that are normally calm can become scared and unpredictable when exposed to the loud noises. Stay Home: Consider staying at home with your dog rather than leaving them alone. Your presence can provide comfort and reassurance during this stressful time. Identification: Ensure your pet has proper identification. A collar with an ID tag and a microchip can help reunite you with your pet if they get lost. Close Windows and Curtains: This can help muffle the sounds and block out the flashes of light from fireworks, reducing the anxiety these stimuli can cause. Exercise Early: Give your dog plenty of exercise earlier in the day to help tire them out and potentially reduce anxiety during the evening's events. Stay Calm: Pets can pick up on their owner's anxiety, so try to remain calm and reassuring. Essential Products to Help Keep Your Pet Safe Fi Collar with GPS Tracking: The most advanced collar on the market, the Fi Collar features GPS tracking, allowing you to locate your pet quickly if they run away. The collar is durable, water-resistant, and has a long battery life, making it perfect for all types of dogs. In the unfortunate event that your pet runs away, the GPS feature can be a lifesaver. Learn More! Snuggle Puppy: The Snuggle Puppy is designed to provide comfort to your pet during stressful situations. It has a real-feel heartbeat and heat pack that mimic the presence of another dog, helping to reduce anxiety. Many pet owners find that the Snuggle Puppy is incredibly effective at calming their pets during fireworks and other loud events. Learn More! Sound Machine: A sound machine can help drown out the noise of fireworks, providing a soothing background noise for your pet. Look for a machine with a variety of sounds and volume control, so you can find the perfect setting to help keep your pet calm. We’re fans of Hatch sound machines. There’s a portable travel one that works great. Learn More! Impact Dog Crates: Their High Anxiety crate is specifically designed to alleviate separation anxiety by offering a secure and comforting space for your pet. Crafted from durable materials, their crates ensure your dog remains safe and comfortable while you're away, providing peace of mind for both you and your furry friend. Whether it's the booming sounds of fireworks or the hustle and bustle of celebrations, these crates offer a sanctuary where your dog can retreat and feel secure, making 4th of July festivities less stressful for your beloved companion. Learn More! Veterinary Consultation: If your dog experiences severe anxiety during fireworks or other loud events, consider reaching out to your veterinarian. They may be able to prescribe medication or suggest other interventions to help keep your pet calm and comfortable during these stressful times. The 4th of July can be a challenging time for pets, but with the right precautions and products, you can help ensure their safety and comfort. By creating a safe space, keeping your pets indoors, and using products like the Fi Dog Collar, Snuggle Puppy, and a sound machine, you can help your furry friends get through the holiday with minimal stress. Remember, your calm presence and proactive measures can make all the difference for your pet on this festive day.
Discover More Ways to Keep Your Pet Calm Beyond Snuggle Puppy!

Snuggle Puppy Blog

Discover More Ways to Keep Your Pet Calm Beyond Snuggle Puppy!

by Anjilla Skotak on Feb 28 2024
You may know us for our beloved Snuggle Puppy®, but did you know we offer a range of other fantastic products designed to keep your puppy calm and content? From our Puppy Bites Supplements to our ultra-cozy Snuggle Blankets, we've got everything you need to create a soothing environment for your furry friend. Puppy Bites Supplements: Calm for Every Occasion! Introducing our Puppy Bites Day Calm and Night Calm Supplements! These specialized formulas are crafted with your puppy’s well-being in mind, addressing their unique needs throughout the day and night. Puppy Bites Day Calm Supplement: Is your pet experiencing the jitters from new experiences or daily stressors? Our Puppy Bites Day Calm Supplement is here to help! Packed with natural ingredients like Colostrum and Ashwagandha, this formula promotes relaxation and comfort during hectic moments. Whether it's a trip to the vet or encountering loud noises, your puppy can face the day with confidence and ease. Puppy Bites Night Calm Supplement: Say goodbye to restless nights with our Puppy Bites Night Calm Supplement! Crafted to support a peaceful night's sleep, this blend features ingredients like Melatonin and L-Theanine, encouraging relaxation and tranquility. Pair it with our Snuggle Puppy for the ultimate bedtime routine, ensuring both you and your pet wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Puppy Bites Supplements: Are made with natural and premium ingredients. Manufactured in the USA using domestic and globally sourced ingredients. Are free from common allergens. Contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Made of high-quality ingredients with no artificial gums or fillers. Delicious chews your puppy will love! Snuggle Blankets: Wrap Your Pet in Comfort! Complete your puppy’s sanctuary with our Snuggle Blankets! Crafted from 300-gram fleece, these blankets are irresistibly soft, cozy, and durable enough to withstand endless washes. Whether it's naptime or bedtime, our Snuggle Blankets provide the perfect sanctuary for your pet to relax and unwind. At Snuggle Puppy, we're dedicated to enhancing your puppy’s wellness journey. Explore our calming products today and bring a little extra comfort into your puppy’s world!
The Science Behind Our Day Calm Supplement

Snuggle Puppy Blog

The Science Behind Our Day Calm Supplement

by Anjilla Skotak on Aug 23 2023
Whether it's a vet visit, a car ride, or just an unexpected visitor, your new puppy can easily become overwhelmed by new situations. See how Day Calm Supplements by Snuggle Puppy can help!
Introducing Puppy Bites: The Premium Supplement Line for Your Furry Friend's Health and Wellness!

Snuggle Puppy Blog

Introducing Puppy Bites: The Premium Supplement Line for Your Furry Friend's Health and Wellness!

by Anjilla Skotak on Aug 03 2023
Introducing Puppy Bites, a line of premium supplements designed to give your furry friend the best start in life! With four specialized formulas to choose from, you can give your puppy the targeted support they need for optimal health and wellness. The Day Calm Supplement is perfect for energetic puppies who need a little help staying calm and focused throughout the day. It's made with all-natural ingredients and helps promote relaxation without drowsiness. For puppies who have trouble settling down at night, the Night Calm Supplement is the perfect solution. It helps promote restful sleep and relaxation so your pup can wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day ahead. The Grow Strong Supplement is specially formulated to support healthy growth and development in puppies. It contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are essential for strong bones, healthy muscles, and overall wellness. Finally, the Gut Health Supplement is designed to promote a healthy digestive system in puppies. It contains probiotics and other beneficial ingredients that help support a balanced gut microbiome, reducing the risk of digestive issues and promoting better overall health. Puppy Bites supplements are made in the USA with high-quality domestic and globally sourced natural and premium ingredients. They are free from common allergens, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. We use premium ingredients like chickpeas and sweet potato to bind our products, not gums or artificial fillers. They're also easy to give, with delicious flavors your puppy will love. Give your puppy the gift of good health with Puppy Bites supplements, from the makers of Snuggle Puppy, the puppy experts with 25 years of relieving puppy anxiety and trusted by millions of new puppy parents globally!
Fun Ways to Get Outside With Your Pup This Spring

Snuggle Puppy Blog

Fun Ways to Get Outside With Your Pup This Spring

by Ashley Handy on Mar 29 2023
Looking for some fun ways to get outside with your dog this spring? Here are just a few ideas!
The Health Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs

Snuggle Puppy Blog

The Health Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs

by Ashley Handy on Jan 23 2023
Today, January 24, is National Peanut Butter Day! Peanut butter is a snack that both you and your pup can enjoy.  Whether it’s on a sandwich, smeared on some crackers, or even on a lick-mat for your pup, peanut butter has plenty of healthy benefits. How can something so good be so healthy for you and your pup? Here is why!
How to Calm Your Dog's Anxiety on New Year's Eve

Snuggle Puppy Blog

How to Calm Your Dog's Anxiety on New Year's Eve

by Ashley Handy on Dec 27 2022
This year has flown by! New Year’s Eve is always the perfect way to celebrate your accomplishments and reminisce about the memories you’ve made with friends, family, and your pup!  Although it is a fun and exciting time for us, certain traditions may cause some stress and anxiety for your pet. Fireworks, champagne popping, and yelling can be stressors for your pet. As fun as it is, you can still celebrate while keeping your pup happy and safe. 
Tips For Bringing a New Dog Home for the Holidays

Snuggle Puppy Blog

Tips For Bringing a New Dog Home for the Holidays

by Ashley Handy on Dec 12 2022
The holiday season is arguably the busiest time of the year for most families. December and January have some of the highest pet adoption rates of the year.  Furry-friends have become one of the most desired surprises on a joyous holiday morning. With a new puppy or kitten comes responsibility. Here is a quick list of tips to get ready for your new family member.
How to Take the ‘Paw’fect Picture for Your Holiday Card

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How to Take the ‘Paw’fect Picture for Your Holiday Card

by Ashley Handy on Dec 01 2022
It’s never too early to plan your holiday card. ‘Tis the season to be jolly, but is your pup ready for the spotlight? Taking pictures of your pet with the family seems easy, right? Not always! Don’t stress. Here are a few tips to take the perfect ‘howl-iday’ photo.
Traveling With Your Pet for the Holidays

Snuggle Puppy Blog

Traveling With Your Pet for the Holidays

by Ashley Handy on Nov 21 2022
The holiday season sure is a busy one! The hustle and bustle may have you and your family traveling a lot more than usual. Before you pack your bags, always remember that the holiday season may stress out your pet, especially if you are traveling with them.
Dog Anxiety Awareness: Types of Anxiety Your Dog Experiences

Snuggle Puppy Blog

Dog Anxiety Awareness: Types of Anxiety Your Dog Experiences

by Ashley Handy on Jul 25 2022
Can your dog have anxiety? The short answer, yes. Anxiety is anticipatory fear of danger which causes intense feelings of emotional distress. For dogs, anxiety can be caused by multiple factors including pain, age, and past trauma. Anxiety can show itself in quite a few ways.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe Around Water

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How to Keep Your Dog Safe Around Water

by Ashley Handy on Jul 08 2022
With how much some dogs love water, it is crazy to believe they don’t have fins! Swimming is a great way for your dog to keep their paws moving while keeping cool in the summer heat at the same time. Whether you live close to the beach, have a pool, or even a sprinkler, safety comes first! Some dogs may be naturals when it comes to swimming, while others may have a rougher time. 
How to Help Your Dog Deal with Grief

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How to Help Your Dog Deal with Grief

by Ashley Handy on Jun 27 2022
Ever wonder if dogs grieve? The answer is, yes. Grieving the loss of a family member or  furry-friend can impact your family greatly. Dogs feel the loss and sadness with you, and grieve in their own way.  Here are some signs your dog may be grieving with you and how you can comfort them during their time of sadness. 
Staying Safe in The Sun With Your Dog

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Staying Safe in The Sun With Your Dog

by Ashley Handy on Jun 21 2022
Life is better with flip flops, and paws! Summer is almost here. Although summer weather is already here, it is never too late to read up on ways to stay safe in the sun.  Sunscreen and sunglasses are safe for you, but do you know what you should be doing to keep your dog safe in hot summer temperatures? Dog's skin is just as sensitive as human skin. In fact, dogs can get sunburn too!
Why We Appreciate Our Pets Pet Appreciation Week

Snuggle Puppy Blog

Why We Appreciate Our Pets: Snuggle Puppy Staff Edition

by Ashley Handy on Jun 09 2022
For pet owners, every week feels like Pet Appreciation Week! The first week of June is reserved for our furry family members who bring a smile to our day.  Whether you have a cat, dog, parrot, or even a chinchilla, pets can improve our mental health and physical health in so many ways. Who doesn’t love coming home and being greeted by a grateful and excited pup! Owning a pet is proven to decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety including loneliness.
How Snuggle Puppy Soothes Weaning Puppies

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How Snuggle Puppy Soothes Weaning Puppies

by Ashley Handy on Jun 01 2022
Weaning a new puppy from their mother is quite an adjustment. Did you know that marking mother’s scent on a soothing item can calm a weaning pup? Like human babies, puppies miss their mothers too! In fact, puppies can recognize their mother’s scent even when they’re full-grown.  If you plan on adopting a new puppy, start the conversation ahead of time with your rescue or breeder about marking the mother’s scent on a special item. 
Tips to Keep Your Dog Calm this Memorial Day

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Tips to Keep Your Dog Calm this Memorial Day

by Ashley Handy on May 27 2022
Did someone say barbeque? Memorial Day is just around the corner. The holiday is full of fun, sun, and fireworks. Even though the bright lights may be beautiful in the sky, the loud noise may scare your pup and make them feel not so ‘pawtriotic’. While you’re preparing for the perfect Memorial Day with your family and friends, here are some things you can do to celebrate with your dog’s firework anxiety in mind!
The Perks of Adopting a Dog

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The Perks of Adopting a Dog

by Ashley Handy on May 17 2022
Mark your calendars, May 20th is National Rescue Dog Day! Rescuing a dog from your local shelter, or even fostering a dog makes a huge difference. In fact, there are more adoptable dogs in the shelter than people willing to adopt them. 
Traveling with your Dog

Snuggle Puppy Blog

Dog Mom Guide: Traveling with your Dog

by Ashley Handy on May 13 2022
We made it through the winter months! Spring has sprung and the weather is getting warmer day-by-day. With summer quickly approaching, I'm sure you’ll have some fun vacations planned.  Memorial Day will be here before you know it. As one of my personal favorite holidays, I am planning a trip to Northern Michigan with my dog, Riser. Traveling with a dog can be tough, but with enough preparation, your vacation with your dog will be great!