10 Activities That Will Help Stimulate Your Dog's Brain And Senses

Dogs are at their happiest and healthiest when they are enriched mentally and physically. Below are ten creative activities that you can practice with your dog to stimulate his brain and use his senses:

Obstacle Course

Use materials around the home, such as boxes and cones, to set up an obstacle course that will benefit your dog in terms of agility training and mental exercise.

Hide The Treat

This canine version of the hide-and-seek game can be played indoors or outdoors. Enclose a treat each in several easy-to-open containers and place them in hidden spots, then train your dog to sniff them out one by one.

Find The Sound

Use a bluetooth speaker or mobile phone to play a variety of sounds, such as animal noises or a recording of your dog’s name being called, and hide the device around your home. Engage your dog’s sense of hearing by allowing him to find the source of the sound.

Spin The Bottle

The goal of this enrichment activity is for your dog to spin the bottle containing treats until the treats drop out. Choose an empty bottle appropriate for the size of your dog, cut out several holes, and use a tension rod for movement.

Chasing Bubbles

Whether you use a machine or wand, chasing and popping bubbles is a clever game that can keep dogs entertained and focused.

Shredding Game

Cut up several pieces of fabric, put them inside a durable plastic ball with large holes, and watch as your dog gamely rips all the cloth out. Include a treat to make it more fun.

Tether Ball

For more energetic and playful dogs, chasing a tether ball is an excellent activity that provides good exercise.

Snuffle Mat

A snuffle mat mimics long grass in that it is made using long strips of fabric tied to a plastic base, and works for dogs who like to scratch and sniff their way to finding food.

Ball or Bottle Pit

This enrichment activity engages your dog’s instinct for digging and sniffing. Sprinkle in several treats with plastic balls or bottles, dump them into a large receptacle or old tire, and allow your dog to explore.

Frozen Treat

Be creative with the canine treats to fill up the food storing toys, such as bananas or kibble, to keep your dog stimulated in body and mind.

Feature Image Source: Pixabay