Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I'm getting an Australian Cattle dog. I do field work most of the week and the dog will be with me working and I weekends he will also be outside hiking, swimming, or playing Frisbee or flyball. However, some days I will need to go into the lab where the dog cannot come. The dog won't be alone very long, a maximum of 6 hours twice a week. (I make my own hours so I can adjust it for the dog)

Before I leave the dog home I'm going to run him/her for a few miles to get him/her tired. Then I was going to crate him/her while I was gone with some toys.

My question is what kind of toys will keep an active, intelligent dog engaged so he/she does not become bored and destructive. I was recommended a kong but I don't know if that will be enough. Will the run and toys be enough to keep a pup happy for 6 hours?

One the pup gets older he/she will not be restricted to the crate but will be able to play in half the house (other half is for the cats to get away if they don't want to play with the pup) Any advice for toys for the dog?

Note: I don't want to leave the dog outside unattended so it will be in the house when I'm away.

Thanks for the help.

If a dog is sufficiently mentally and physically active for the majority of the week, a few hours in a crate a week will not be a problem. The dog will sleep when you are away. A Kong toy is good and will entertain the dog for about 30 minutes after you leave and while they settle to go to sleep.

Sounds like your schedule will be fine for this dog. Good luck! Post pics when you get your pup.

Again, remember, if crunched for time, sometimes training and working the brain works more than physical exersion for a dog. Still, some dogs need to physically be more tired to be able to use their brain correctly. You'll figure out the correct balalnce your dog needs.
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Chelle and the rest of the crew including, but not limited to Kita and Taiko (the shiba inu wrestle maniacs), Adi (reserved and dignified tabby cat), and all 28 reptiles www.freewebs.com/performanceshibas

Dogs sleep 14 hours a day, often considerably more. The six hours will probably not be a problem. I would recommend a variety of textures in the toys. Dog toys are complicated! Read the article "Toys as Tools for Dogs" at the link with my signature. It's free access, no registration or subscription or password required. The Veterinary Information Network provides the site as a public service.
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Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series articles at http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=SRC&S=1&SourceID=47