Provide your dog with puzzle toys that dispense treats or kibble as they manipulate the toy. This engages their problem-solving skills and keeps them entertained.
Hide treats or toys around the house or in the yard, and encourage your dog to find them. This game taps into their natural scent-tracking abilities and provides mental stimulation.
Create homemade treat dispensers using items like empty plastic bottles or muffin tins. Fill them with treats and let your dog figure out how to get the goodies out.
Freeze dog-friendly treats or toys in a block of ice. This not only provides a refreshing treat, especially on hot days, but also challenges your dog to figure out how to melt the ice to get to the rewards.
Create a sensory garden with different textures, smells, and surfaces. Incorporate safe plants, textures like grass and sand, and various scents to engage your dog's senses during outdoor playtime.
Set up a simple agility course in your backyard using items like tunnels, jumps, and weave poles. This not only provides physical exercise but also engages your dog's problem-solving abilities as they navigate the course.
Engage in regular obedience training sessions with your dog. Teaching new commands and reinforcing existing ones helps keep their mind sharp and strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend.
Make a traditional game of fetch more challenging by using toys that bounce unpredictably or by incorporating elevation changes. You can throw toys up or down stairs (if safe), or use a fetch stick with a built-in sling for increased distance.