TIP TWO: MENTAL STIMULATION
- Hide & Seek: Dogs love playing hide-and-seek just as much as people do! If your dog knows the “stay” command, or if you have a friend to help, start by having your dog stay in one room while you find a hiding spot. Once you’re hidden, call your dog to come find you. This game engages both their critical thinking skills and sense of smell, offering them a fun and stimulating challenge that they don’t get to use as often in everyday life.
- Go “Find It”: While your dog is confined, hide toys or treats around the house, depending on their preference. When you let your dog out, let them sniff your hand to catch the scent of the hidden items, then tell them to “find it.” Start with easy hiding spots where the treats or toys are in plain view, and gradually increase the difficulty as your dog gets the hang of the game. This activity provides mental stimulation and encourages their natural foraging instincts.
- Take a scent walk: Designate special walks where your dog can leisurely explore and sniff to their heart’s content. Allowing your dog to follow their nose not only lowers their heart rate, reducing stress, but also triggers the release of dopamine, the brain’s “happy” chemical. These scent-focused walks provide mental stimulation and can greatly enhance your dog’s overall well-being.
- Play with puzzles & interactive toys: Puzzle and interactive toys are excellent for engaging your dog’s mind and keeping them entertained. These toys often have compartments where you can hide treats, and your dog must solve a puzzle to access them. With a wide range of puzzles available, you can choose from various levels of complexity to match your dog’s skill and keep their brain active.
- Munch on Frozen Treats: Frozen treats are a fantastic way to keep your pup entertained and cool, especially in the summer. You can make various “pupsicle” recipes, or simply give them frozen fruits and veggies like carrots. These treats not only provide a tasty reward but also offer a bit of a challenge as your dog works to enjoy them, adding an extra layer of mental stimulation to their day.
- Scatter Feeding: Scatter feeding is a fun and engaging way to provide your pet’s meals. Simply hide portions of their dry food around the house or yard, then let your dog search for it. This activity stimulates their mind and encourages natural foraging behaviors. Alternatively, you can use a snuffle mat, which keeps the food in various pockets and ruffles, requiring your dog to use their nose to find it. Both methods are great for adding mental stimulation and enriching your dog’s feeding routine.
PRODUCTS THAT CONTAIN PLASMA:
