At Northern Biscuit, we know how important it is to keep your dog happy, healthy, and mentally engaged.
Training your dog goes far beyond teaching basic commands—it’s about challenging their mind, building your bond, and helping them grow smarter every day. And who says brain games can’t be fun?
Here are some fantastic activities to add variety and enrichment to your dog’s routine.
1. Teach Your Dog to Make Eye Contact
This simple yet powerful exercise helps improve your dog’s focus. Hold a treat near your eye or forehead and encourage your dog to look at you.
Gradually phase out the treat, using a hand signal and verbal command instead. Eye contact isn’t just about getting their attention; it also releases oxytocin, strengthening your bond through what scientists call “eye hugs.”
2. Switch Up Your Walking Routine
Shake things up by varying your walking route. Whether it’s a different direction or an entirely new trail, exposing your dog to new sights, smells, and sounds keeps their mind active and focused on you. Just make sure the area is safe for exploration!
3. Play the Hot and Cold Game
Hide a treat or toy while your dog isn’t looking. Use your tone of voice to guide them: a calm tone for “colder” and an excited tone for “hotter.” This game is design to hone their listening skills.
4. Try a Snuffle Mat
Engage your dog’s sense of smell with a snuffle mat, an interactive tool designed to hide treats. These mats provide hours of mental stimulation and mimic the natural foraging experience dogs love.
5. Problem-Solving With a Rope
Tie a treat to a rope or string and hide it under furniture or a platform where your dog can’t reach it directly. Encourage them to figure out how to tug the rope to retrieve their reward. This boosts reasoning skills and confidence.
6. Explore Puzzle Toys
Puzzle toys are a great way to challenge your dog’s problem-solving abilities. These interactive tools often use treats as rewards and help build memory and focus over time.
7. Play Hide and Seek
This classic game is perfect for dogs! Have them sit and stay while you hide. Then call them to find you. Their keen sense of smell will guide them, and the ultimate reward is finding you.
Mental Exercise Matters
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for a well-rounded, happy dog. These activities not only strengthen your dog’s mind but also the connection you share. For more tips and high-quality treats to make training sessions even better, visit Northern Biscuit. Let’s keep those tails wagging!