This is especially true for folks (like me) who adopted a pup during the pandemic (meet my pomchi, Miso) and have yet to adjust to a home-alone schedule. But, fret not! Because we've laid out the ultimate starter pack for easing your pet's separation anxiety (along with yours) during the workday. From high-tech cameras that throw treats to smart bones and calming chews, find the best out-of-sight-but-not-out-of-mind gadgets for soothing your best furry friends' nerves.
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Furbo Full HD Wifi Dog Treat Dispenser & Camera
The internet's favorite dog camera has earned major points for good reason: It seamlessly pairs with your phone so you can watch a live stream of your pet, enable two-way audio, and even toss treats their way for being a good boy or girl.
Furbo Full HD Wifi Dog Treat Dispenser & Camera, $, available at Chewy
Fable The Game
Part slow-feeder, part Weeble, this interactive gizmo helps your dog "hunt" for his dinner by playing with the wobbly dispenser. In addition to getting exercise, it'll keep your pup busy and entertained while you're out.
Fable The Game, $, available at Fable
Pet Tunes Calming Music Dog Speaker
Ambient nature sound playlists are not only effective in calming down nervous hoomans (like me) but they also work wonders for soothing anxiety-prone pups (like Miso). This compact speaker is ready to play out of the box — it's pre-loaded with 90 minutes of music developed with a dog sound behaviorist — and also comes equipped with Bluetooth capabilities so you can program your own calming playlist of choice.
Pet Acoustics Pet Tunes Calming Music Dog Speaker, $, available at Chewy
Wild One CALM Supplement
These vet-reviewed chews are as delicious as your dog's favorite treats but are formulated with hemp seed and chamomile for added calming benefits for anxious or hyperactive pups.
Wild One CALM Normal Stress & Relaxation Supplement, $, available at Wild One
The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Dog Bed
If they made these in adult person sizes, I would 100% buy one for myself. These often-copied, cloud-like dog beds are perfect for round-the-clock lounging until mom or dad gets back home, thanks to the round shape which helps create "a protective atmosphere."
Best Friends By Sheri The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Dog Bed, $, available at Chewy
Wickedbone Smart Bone
This tech toy has the mobile abilities of a Roomba (minus the cleaning part) and whimsical sound effects that invite your dog to chase, grab, and interact with it as it spins and rolls around your space.
Wickedbone Smart Bone, Automatic & Interactive Toys for Dogs, $, available at Amazon
Pet Water Dispenser Station
While you're making small talk at the water cooler, your pet can have its own water breaks. This system automatically refills the bowl once your pet sips below a fill line, ensuring they have fresh water even when you're not around.
Flexzion Pet Water Dispenser Station, $, available at Amazon
DOGTV
For the dogs that are accustomed to a certain lifestyle, a subscription to the popular DOGTV channel is the height of entertainment. With a paid subscription, you'll be able to enjoy everything from cheery animations to help with mental stimulation, calming nature scenes, and programming designed to get your dog used to daily sounds like car horns and doorbells.
DOGTV 6 Month Gift Card, $, available at DOGTV
Populum Zen Pets Hemp Oil
If a calming chew isn't quite doing the trick, consult your vet about CBD tinctures and chews for your pet. Miso's favorite is Populum's human-grade oil, which helps him feel more comfortable when meeting new friends.
Populum Zen Pets Hemp CBD Chews, $, available at Populum
Thundershirt
While it may not be much of a style statement, the Thundershirt is designed to mimic the comforting sensation of being held. (Make sure to get the right fitting garment to ensure that your pup will feel comfortable wearing it for extended periods of time.)
Thundershirt Heather Gray Dog Anxiety Solution, $, available at Petco
Artificial Grass Puppy Pad
If you're concerned about bathroom breaks for your dog (and don't want to throw out pee pad after pee pad), you can invest in a washable faux-lawn patch that can act as an indoor toilet. (Just clean the layers with soap and water after use.)
PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pad, $, available at Amazon
Wobble Wag Giggle Ball Dog Toy
If you're anything like me, your pup has more toys than they'll ever know what to do with. However, this "laughing" squeaky ball will definitely become a new favorite. The interactive design keeps dogs busy and active during the day.
As Seen on TV Wobble Wag Giggle Ball Dog Toy, $, available at Chewy
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