6 Reasons to Increase your Dog's Mental Stimulation
Everyone knows dogs need physical exercise, but exercising your dog’s brain is just as important!
Here are some reasons why…
1. Prevents Boredom
If your dog is mentally stimulated, they are likely to be more relaxed and calmer. This can help prevent undesirable behaviours linked with boredom, such as chewing furniture, barking or attention seeking.
2. Builds Confidence
Showing your dog how they can use their brain in different ways can help build their confidence and reduce anxiety.
Encouraging your dog to complete puzzle toys or sniff out food shows them what they are able to do!
3. Deepens Your Bond
By offering your dog opportunities for mental stimulation, you are building your relationship with them. This is crucial for effective training and communication.
4. Learn About Your Dog
Find out more about your dog by offering them different activities. Does your dog prefer sniffing out treats or chasing a toy? Do they like shredding cardboard boxes or do they prefer puzzle toys?
The more we know about our dog, the better!
5. Opportunities to Perform Natural Behaviours
Dogs have natural instincts which we should provide acceptable outlets for. For example, if your dog likes to dig up the garden, make them a sandpit!
Or if your Border Terrier likes to chase squirrels, teach them to play chase games with you using a flirt pole.
6. Encourages Calmness
A dog who is both physically and mentally stimulated will be more likely to relax at home. They will be a calmer, happier dog- and you will be a happier pawrent too!
References
Dogs Trust: Enrichment activities to keep your dog entertained | Dogs Trust
Hiby, E.F., Rooney, N.J. and Bradshaw, J.W.S. 2004. ‘Dog Training Methods: their use, effectiveness and interaction with behaviour and welfare’. Animal Welfare 13(1): 63-70.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: A Hierarchy of Dog Needs: Abraham Maslow Meets the Mutts | Psychology Today
