10 Fun and Easy Activities to Keep Your Dog Happy and Busy
Keeping your dog happy and entertained can sometimes be a challenge, but adding a few enrichment games and activities to their routine can make a big difference. Mental stimulation not only helps keep your dog busy but can also prevent boredom-related behaviors like chewing or excessive barking.
Why Enrichment Games are Great for Dogs
You’ve probably heard the saying “a tired dog is a good dog.” While physical exercise is important, it’s not always enough. After a 10-minute frisbee session, my dog Laika might be tired, but give her another 20 minutes, and she’s ready for more!
I used to think that increasing her physical exercise would solve everything, but I soon discovered the power of mental stimulation. Simple brain games like “find the treats” and hide-and-seek completely changed her behavior. Instead of constantly seeking more activities, she started to settle down for longer periods.
Balancing physical and mental exercise can make your dog more content and well-behaved. If you want to keep your pup happy and entertained, try incorporating some enrichment games into their routine.
Where to Start? Here are 10 of My Favorite Canine Enrichment Games:
1. Snuffle Mats
– If you’re not familiar with snuffle mats, don’t worry; neither was I until recently. They look like rubber mats with lots of fabric strips and are great for dogs that eat kibble or dry treats. These mats mimic grass and allow your dog to sniff out food, using their natural scavenging instincts. You can even make your own snuffle mat or buy one online.
2. Stuffed Kongs
– Stuffed Kongs are a classic and super easy way to keep your dog entertained. Just fill up a Kong with treats, freeze it overnight, and voila! You have an interactive toy that can keep your dog busy. I like using peanut butter or sodium-free broth as the base, then adding healthy treats like chopped carrots or apple slices. Kongs are durable and dishwasher safe, making them a long-lasting option.
These are just a couple of ideas to get you started. Including such activities in your dog’s routine can make a big difference in their happiness and behavior. Try them out and see how your furry friend responds!
