8 Ways to Give Your Dog More Mental Stimulation

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1. Have Your Dog Work For Their Food

Add mental stimulation to your dog's routine with food dispensing toys like Kong Wobbler or Bob-A-Lot for a fun and satisfying mealtime experience.

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2. Let Your Dog Sniff & Explore on Walks

Walking + sniffing = happy dogs! Exploration & mental stimulation are key. Let them lead sometimes. "Go sniff" cue works wonders. Try it!

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3. Get Your Dog a Puzzle Toy

Puzzle toys keep dogs focused, entertained, and mentally stimulated, reducing problem behaviors. They tap into problem-solving abilities and boost confidence

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4. Teach Your Dog Some New Tricks

Teach your dog tricks for mental stimulation, confidence, and bonding. Try 52 tricks like weaving between legs. Boost focus and impulse control.

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5. Play Some Nose Work Games

"Play 'go find it': hide smelly treats, encourage dog to use nose, start easy, praise findings, progress to harder spots. Mental stimulation!"

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6. Teach Your Dog the Names of Their Toys

Show toy, say name ("pink bear"). Praise when dog touches it. Slowly add more toys. Eventually say "go find [toy]."

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7. Play Some Free Shaping Games

"Shaping games increase dog's mental & physical flexibility. Let them explore a box or other objects. Example: shape training a dog to crawl."

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8. Make an Obstacle Course For Your Dog

Teach your dog agility with homemade obstacles: blanket, toys, cones. Mental workout, new tricks. Fun and stimulating!