Dogs are active creatures that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. If your dog is bored, it may exhibit destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture, digging in the yard, or turning your favorite shoes into a chew toy.
We will show you several ways to keep your busy dog occupied and prevent them from getting into trouble. Several methods will require your involvement, and a few ways will not. If your furry friend has a surplus of energy and a penchant for getting into mischief – fear not! – we’ve got solutions!
Walks, Hikes, and Car Rides
Getting out of the house is one of the best ways to get your dog’s energy out. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, more if your dog is young or has a lot of energy. A harness may be preferable over a collar for better control over the animal and less stress on its neck. Bring water for you and your pet, as well as poop bags, as the activity may be stimulating.
Although not a substitute for the physical exercise of walking, another way to stimulate your dog — and mitigate their destructive behavior — is with a car ride (as long as the weather is not too hot). This is a great way to give your dog a change of scenery and let them explore new places. You can keep them safe in the car by using a dog harness and seat belt.
Fetch or Tug-of-War
These games are a great way to bond and get your dog moving. Be sure to use a toy that is appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing habits.
Experts say not to play tug-of-war with a dog if it’s already aggressive. Also, to avoid aggression, always make sure you initiate the game and set the rules. Always tug side to side, not up and down, and don’t drag the dog around by the rope or toy. Don’t yank or jerk too hard with small dogs.
Brain Training Games
Engage your dog’s mind with brain training games like “Find the treat” or “Which hand?” These games challenge their cognitive skills and reinforce your bond as you work together to solve puzzles.
“Hide and Seek” is another classic game that can entertain your dog for hours. Hide treats around the house or play hide and seek with their favorite toys. This engages their natural hunting instincts and keeps their minds and bodies active.
Scent Work
This fun activity will keep your dog’s mind active by tapping into your dog’s incredible sense of smell with scent work games. Hide treats or toys in different rooms and let your pup sniff out the rewards.
Start by hiding a few treats in easy-to-find places, then gradually make the hiding places more difficult. You can also consider enrolling in scent detection classes, which provide mental and physical stimulation.
Obedience Classes and Teaching Them Tricks
Training is necessary for puppies and young dogs, so consider signing your pup up for obedience classes. This is a great way to teach your dog basic obedience commands while giving them mental stimulation. Training helps you keep them safe and protects others.
Expand the training by teaching them to do tricks. This is another fun way to keep your dog’s mind active. You can teach your dog many different tricks, such as sit, stay, shake, high-five, crawl, and roll over.
Agility Training
Introduce your dog to agility training, which involves navigating obstacles like tunnels, jumps, and weave poles. This stimulates their mind and body and helps build their confidence and obedience skills.
Set up a mini agility course in your backyard or even indoors using household items like hula hoops, cones, and tunnels. This fun and physically engaging activity allows your dog to burn off energy and enhance coordination.
Doggy Socializing
Take them to the dog park. This is an excellent way for your dog to socialize and get some exercise. Just supervise them closely, especially if they are not used to being around other dogs.
Arrange playdates with other dogs to provide your pup with much-needed social interaction. Doggy friends can engage in chase, wrestling, and interactive play, offering exercise and mental stimulation.
Chew-Proof Toys
Dogs love to chew — especially puppies while they are teething — so providing them with sturdy and safe chew toys is a necessity and a win-win. Opt for toys made from durable materials that can withstand the most robust jaws.
Chew toys prevent your pup from turning their attention to your furniture. Plus, they promote healthy dental hygiene.
Interactive Puzzle Toys
Interactive puzzle toys are a dog’s best friend when it comes to mental stimulation. These toys challenge your pup’s problem-solving skills as they work to uncover treats hidden within.
From treat-dispensing balls to puzzle boards, these toys occupy your dog and provide a rewarding mental workout.
Interactive Feeder Bowls
Trade in your dog’s regular food bowl for an interactive feeder. These bowls require your pup to work for their kibble by nudging, pawing, or spinning the bowl. Not only does this slow their eating, but it also keeps them engaged during mealtime.
Puzzle feeders are inexpensive, and there is a vast selection to choose from. Because they are so affordable, you can change them over time or by more than one and rotate them to keep your dog challenged.
Read More: 7 Ways to Teach an Old Dogs New Tricks
