Playing games with your dog is not only fun, but it’s also a great way to engage their minds and give them the mental stimulation they need. Brain games are great for rainy days or even just for helping to expend energy for your highly energetic dog. Here are 10 brain games you can play with your dog:
1. Hide and Seek:
This classic game is fun for both you and your dog. Hide a toy (or even yourself) somewhere in the house or yard, and encourage your dog to search for it. Increase the difficulty by hiding the item in a more challenging location.
2. Puzzle Toys:
Puzzle toys are a great way to challenge your dog’s mind. These toys typically involve hiding treats or kibble inside a complex puzzle that your dog must figure out how to solve. We like to take 3 to 4 old hand towels and lay them flat. Add treats or kibble along the length of the towel and fold up multiple times long ways continuing to add kibble or a treat into each fold. Then take the 3 to 4 folded up towels and tie them all together for a real time-consuming brain teaser for your pup.
3. Name That Toy:
Teach your dog the names of their toys and then ask them to bring you a specific toy by name. This helps to reinforce their understanding of language and can be a fun game for both of you. Combine this with idea number 1 and hide the toy and then tell your dog to “find [insert toy name]”.
4. Tug-of-War:
Tug-of-war is a classic game that is not only fun but also helps to develop your dog’s strength and problem-solving skills. Just make sure to establish rules and boundaries to prevent any unwanted behavior. Ropes are often great tug of war toys.
5. Find the Treat:
Hide treats around the house or yard and encourage your dog to search for them. This game not only engages their mind but also provides a fun way to reward good behavior.
6. Cup Game:
This game involves hiding a treat under one of three cups and then moving the cups around to confuse your dog. Encourage your dog to choose the correct cup with the treat inside.
7. Obstacle Course:
Set up an obstacle course in your yard or home using items such as cones, tunnels, and jumps. This game challenges your dog’s coordination and problem-solving skills. And don’t be afraid to get creative using the things you have at home. A broom stick between two chairs can make a great tunnel or obstacle to jump over.
8. Follow the Leader:
This game involves leading your dog through a series of commands and movements. This helps to reinforce obedience and can be a fun way to bond with your dog.
9. Iced Lick Mat:
Pour water into a bowl with a few pieces of fruit. Freeze and then allow your dog to lick away at the ice to get to the fruit that they like. This is a time-consuming challenge and will keep them occupied with trying to find a way to get to the fruit. We love these types of treats for the summer time!
10. Guess the Hand:
This game involves hiding a treat in one of your hands and then switching hands a few times to confuse your dog. Encourage your dog to choose the correct hand with the treat inside.
Playing brain games with your dog is a great way to give them the mental stimulation they need and strengthen your bond. Try out these 10 brain games with your furry friend and see which ones they enjoy the most! Next check out The Best Dog Toys on the Market for some great toys to keep your pup physically active as well!
