If you work full-time, have a family, or manage a hectic pet-care business, prioritizing your dog's mental and physical needs can feel im-pawsible. Ensuring that your dog receives enough stimulation matters though, especially if they are a higher-energy breed. Engaged dogs are typically happier, healthier, and less likely to develop behavioral issues like separation anxiety, inappropriate chewing, or reactivity.

Here are some activities and tools to keep your dog entertained and stimulated, even when you're not home.

Interactive Toys and Puzzles

A corgi dog playing with a puzzle feeder

Interactive toys and puzzles are a great way to challenge your dog's mind. These toys often require dogs to solve a problem in exchange for a reward, such as a treat. Some popular options include:

  • KONG Toys: Fill them with treats or peanut butter for hours of fun.
  • Puzzle Feeders: Make mealtime a mentally stimulating activity.
  • Snuffle Mats: Hide treats in the mat for your dog to sniff out.

Training Sessions

Training sessions teach your dog new skills and provide mental stimulation, making them a dual-benefit activity. Incorporate short, fun training sessions into your daily routine. Focus on basic commands like sit, stay, come and heel, and trick training for fun commands like roll over or shake paws. Setting up a mini agility course in your backyard or living room can also be a great way to keep your dog active and engaged.

Exercise and Play

A woman and dog hiking through a streamRegular physical exercise is crucial for a dog's health and happiness. Fetching, tug-of-war, and frisbee are great for burning off energy and providing physical stimulation. High-energy dogs especially benefit from varied and frequent exercise.

Exploring new environments can also be very stimulating for dogs. Plan regular outdoor adventures like:

  • Hiking: Take your dog hiking to explore new trails and smells.
  • Beach Trips: If your dog loves water, a trip to the beach can be a great way to burn energy.
  • Urban Walks: Walk around different neighborhoods to see new sights and sounds.

Socialization

Two french bulldogs playing with a tennis ballSocialization is important for a dog's development and behavior. Arrange playdates with other dogs or take your dog to a dog park. Socialization activities include:

  • Dog Playdates: Schedule regular playtime with other friendly dogs.
  • Dog Parks and Bars: Let your dog run and play off-leash with other dogs.
  • Dog Daycare and Boarding: A great option for busy pet parents to keep their dogs socialized and active, whether you drop them off for a few hours each day while working or boarding when you're out of town.

DIY Enrichment Activities

Get creative with do-it-yourself enrichment activities. Use household items to create engaging and fun games:

  • Treat Dispenser: Fill an empty plastic bottle with treats and let your dog figure out how to get them out.
  • Cardboard Box Maze: Create a maze out of cardboard boxes and hide treats inside.
  • Frozen Treats: Freeze toys or treats in water or broth for a cooling summer activity.

A woman and her dog play tug with a stick outsideIncorporating these activities into your dog's routine ensures they remain happy, healthy, and engaged. Even starting with 10 or 15 minutes of daily activity positively impacts your dog's lifelong health and strengthens the bond you share.

Keep happy tails wagging with Gingr. Schedule a demo today!