If you have watched shows on dog training or perused social media, you’ve probably seen some crazy dog behavior. From dogs that bark at every single human they see to dogs that chew up households full of furniture to dogs that jump through glass windows when left alone, dogs can go through significant mental health challenges. Dogs need more than just food, water, and walks.
A bored dog is generally a bad dog. An under stimulated dog is an unhappy dog. A dog that’s craving interaction and activity is an annoying dog. It’s important to understand your dog’s needs and the best ways to meet them.
What is Mental Stimulation for Dogs?
Mental stimulation is simply engaging your dog’s mind. Dogs are smart, and they want to learn. Just like a dog needs physical exercise to expend physical energy, they need mental exercise to expend mental energy as well. Mental stimulation means allowing your dog to use their brain.
What are ways to provide mental stimulation?
- Varying a walk routine to try a new street or path
- Going on walks that include new places and new scents
- Spending time with them bonding and building your relationship
- Training them to complete new tasks with new commands
- Providing problem-solving activities like food puzzles or puzzle toys.
- Providing new or different toys at different intervals
- Taking them new places for new experiences
- Introducing them to new pets or new people
- Letting them hear new sounds and music
- Playing games like fetch, tug of war, or hide and seek.
Why is Mental Stimulation so Important?
Giving your dog a positive outlet for mental energy reduces anxiety, boredom, and destructive behaviors. Keeping their brains active keeps them cognitively present and helps them stay healthy. Dogs that are bored or that don’t know what to do with themselves often become anxious or destructive. A dog that is mentally engaged will be more receptive to your needs and better behaved. Cognitively active dogs are also likely to lead longer, healthier lives.
What are Signs a Dog Needs More Mental Stimulation?
Generally, negative behaviors are related to a dog needing more physical exercise and mental stimulation. If a dog is chewing your floors or furniture or clothing, they are looking for something to do. If a dog is constantly anxious and upset, his energy is focused on that feeling. Redirecting the energy to a useful focus such as a puzzle or training can help reduce anxiety. Have routines with your dog so they know what to expect, but vary routines enough so that there are still new things for them to see and learn. Be engaged with your dog and tune into their mental energy. Pay attention to their needs and changes in their behavior.
Key signs of needing more mental stimulation include:
- Chewing forbidden items
- Digging excessively
- Whining
- Barking excessively
- Restlessness
- Pacing
- Hyperactivity
- Lack of focus
In order to have a well-behaved dog, it is important that your pet get both physical exercise and mental stimulation. Next time you take your dog on a walk, try a different route and take a little time to stop and smell the roses.
Peak City Puppy: https://peakcitypuppy.com/
Dog walkers: https://peakcitypuppy.com/dog-walking-2/
