Mental Stimulation for Your Dog

Mental Stimulation for Your Dog: Its Importance and Suggested Activities

Your dog might be very bored right now! Mental stimulation for dogs is often overlooked as we go about our busy lives. Some dog owners aren’t aware that mental activity is just as important as physical exercise for their overall well-being. Dogs can’t use words to express their frustration. Instead, their cry for help usually comes in the form of destructive behaviors, like chewing the furniture or barking like a broken alarm. No need to be anxious, though! We will discuss canine mental stimulation, and what you can do as the “doting dog parent” to keep them engaged (and keep them from destroying your favorite shoes).

What do we mean by mental stimulation?

Think of canine mental stimulation as a workout for your dog’s brain. Just like the body, a dog’s brain needs regular exercise to maintain proper function. People exercise their minds with puzzles, books, games, and learning a foreign language. Dogs also have their own set of activities to work their brain, and that’s what we refer to as “mental stimulation.”

Is it necessary?

YES! Dogs are naturally intelligent mammals and enjoy using their minds more than you realize. Like people, they can become weary and bored from idleness. Your dog will search for ways to occupy their boredom, and you might not like their solution. They will not come close to living their best life. Bored dogs are unhappy and are most likely will cause trouble. By taking the time to stimulate your dog mentally, your whole household will be happy and healthy.

What is the result of not receiving enough stimulation?

When dogs lack sufficient mental stimulation, their most common response is to act out by being reckless and destructive; however, it can also be harmful to your dog’s overall health, too? health problems will include:

• • Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD)
  • Sadness
  • Joint problems
  • Dementia
  • Depression
  • Muscle atrophy
  • Anxiety
  • Obesity

How much stimulation, examples, and how to know when they need more?

Most dogs should have at least 20-25 minutes of active mental stimulation each day – doing anything that keeps your dog’s mind and body active. Here’s how you can choose to spend this time: playing fetch, going for a walk, manners or obedience training, agility training, problem-solving games, food puzzle toys, interactive dog toys, cup/treat hiding games, hide-n-seek, obstacle courses (inside or out), treat scattering, Kong toys stuffed with favorite food, treat ball, toy identification-name calling, expose them to new places, car rides, and CBD oil. There are noticeable signs that may signal your dog needs more mental stimulation. Some of the most common behaviors they may exhibit include:

• • Sleeping more often
  • Frequent whining or barking
  • Digging holes or destroying things
  • Pacing or being unable to settle down
  • Chasing their tail
  • Having trouble paying attention
  • Unable to focus on your commands

Benefits of mental stimulation:

• • Supports aging minds
  • Helps prevent canine cognitive dysfunction
  • Assists with the prevention of dementia
  • Teaches them good behavior
  • Strengthens your bond
  • Reduces hyperactivity
  • Improves mood
  • Reduces boredom & destructive behavior