Brain games for dogs

Our furry friends need mental and physical activity. While dog owners agree on the need for exercise, the concept that pet needs to spend time together with the owner is accepted by few. For dogs, it is not enough to be fed and scratched behind the ear. It is important to choose proper <a href="https://collardirect.com/collections/dog-collars">dog collars</a> to walk and train your dog. Dogs are smart and creative, and tend to develop behavioral issues when get bored. There are many different ways to train your dog's brain. Training is a great way to tire your dog, a wonderful activity for the two of you to bond, and you'll see some amazing results!

In case you are on quarantine or cannot get out of the house for some other reason, there are a few games and exercises you can try with your dog at home. Don’t forget to choose a comfortable collar for your dog. <a href="https://collardirect.com/collections/rolled-leather-dog-collar">Leather rolled collar</a> is gentle on the dog’s neck and does not cause irritation.

1. Nosework games. This is one of the exercises where you encourage the dog to find a treat hidden in certain object or place. Before you leave, "hide" a few of your dog's favorite treats around the house so they can find them while you're away. This works especially well if your dog knows the “search” command that you can give as you walk out. Another variation of this exercise is to put treats on the rug or a towel and roll it, so that the dog could smell the food and unroll it one by one. Always look for signs of stress or tiredness in your pet by watching their <a href="https://collardirect.com/blogs/dogs/dog-body-language">body language</a>. Don’t forget to give positive reinforcement and praise the dog each time they find the treat. You can also put some treats or kibble under the blanket. The idea is for the dog to figure out how to get to the treats. If the dog is confused or stuck, you can help by pointing where the treat is.

2. New toys. Always keep fun and interesting toys around and replace them from time to time. Just like humans, dogs get bored to play with the same things.

Teach your dog new commands. Even after they learn the basics like 'sit' and 'come here'," regular lessons will train their brain. Positive reinforcement training builds their confidence and strengthens the bond between the two of you.

3. Running with your dog known as canicross is also a good form of mental stimulation. It is natural for dogs to be active. Exercise can help resolve issues such as separation anxiety, stress, destructive behavior, and boredom. Canicross can help with weight loss, strengthen muscles for other dog sports, and just improve your dog's overall health. In some cases, canicross can help dogs with mild hip dysplasia by strengthening the muscles around the hips.

4. Food puzzles. Make your dog work for their food! Many dogs are motivated by treats and will enjoy finding them in feeder toys. You can make one of these toys yourself. You will need a cardboard box and some paper. Wrap the treats in paper and put lots of crumpled in the box. You can close the box in order to complicate the game. Don’t forget to use the treats that smell quite strongly. Some dogs can rip the box apart during the game, which can also channel destructive behavior in game rather than destroy your things.

These simple brain games will help mentally stimulate your dog, keep your pet happy, and alleviate boredom. After sufficient mental exercise, the dog will sleep better. Brain games are especially beneficial for puppies that cannot withstand prolonged physical exercise but have a lot of energy.