Mental and physical simulation for dogs is a great way to treat your dog right. In this way, you can see if they are really having the best time of their life. And as their owner, their overall health is our greatest achievement in life, isn’t it? And mental and physical simulation for dogs does not require a lot of things and money to be done!
Mental and physical simulation for dogs creates big benefits but one of it were these two:
Increases good behavior
If dogs are bored, they can turn to other outlets to entertain themselves. The lack of mental stimulation could lead your dog to show unwanted behavior including excessive barking, chewing shoes, scratching up furniture, and/or digging up those beautiful flowers you just planted in your yard! Mental stimulation is also shown to lower aggression and hyperactivity in dogs. Mental stimulation can help your dog acclimate to socializing with fellow dogs and people. This can be, especially, important if you have other pets or children at home.
Keeps dogs sharp
Mental health affects physical health in dogs, just like in humans. Activating your dog’s mind prevents premature aging. It’s tragic that your fur babies have a shorter lifespan than us humans, so helping them stay healthy is key to more memories together. Mental stimulation not only keeps older dogs sharp by helping to fight off symptoms of dementia, anxiety, and depression but creates a strong foundation to raise smart and happy pups.
So, in order to have mental and physical simulation for dogs, here are some things to do:
Exercises
Exercises are one of the things and key to mental and physical simulation for dogs Just like humans, dogs (and cats, too!) need stimulation and exercise to live long and happy lives. Not only does consistent stimulation and exercise help promote good behavior it also helps deter destructive behaviors. When you allow a set amount of time to work with your animal, you are aiding in their health by preventing obesity, strengthening their cardiovascular health & muscles, reducing digestive problems, keeping joints mobile & supple, and keeping their brain active.
In other avenues, when you provide outdoor stimulation for your puppy you are also promoting housetraining. When you go on frequent scheduled walks, it can promote your pet’s ability to cope with your absences, build confidence and trust for your pet, and increase socialization with people and other dogs. So, mental and physical simulation for dogs starts with a great core and appetite!
Mental Games
Exercise is important for your pet’s physical health but what about their mental health as well? Mental and physical simulation for dogs is where stimulation comes into what your pet’s daily routine should be like. Here are some fun ways to provide your dog with ways to keep their mind occupied:
Kong toys – Fill it with frozen peanut butter or small treats; either way, they’ll have to work a little for them!
Puzzle toys – Hide a treat or two and leave it for them. They’ll eventually figure it out and enjoy it too.
Slow feeders – Make them work for their food and help promote slow eating patterns!
Learn a new trick/command – This can be as simple as introducing a word for a new toy, the perfect time to teach them to grab their own leash, shake with each paw, or maybe even roll over for a belly rub or two!
Also, activities such as obedience training, games, and socializing can be great ways to engage your mental and physical simulation for dogs.
Train your dogs to react to commands and continue to add new concepts as they master commands. In fact, obedience training is great for shy or fearful dogs as they will gain confidence and become more receptive to other dogs and people.
Do you know the dogs that perk up when they hear the word “walk” or “treat”? Yes, dogs can associate action with words. Teach your dogs vocabulary. Perhaps teach them the name of their favorite toy and play a game of hide and seek. Other games you can try include fetch, positive light tug-of-war, setting up an obstacle course, and making them sniff out a hidden treat.
For dogs that spend long hours alone, you can try leaving the tv on or playing music. Sounds can help your dog stay stimulated throughout the day. Please keep in mind that you should accommodate activities to the dog’s needs, depending on breed, size, and age. For instance, a working breed like a Jack Russel Terrier will need more stimulation than a couch potato Basset Hound. With this being said, a wonderful alternative is having experienced people care for your dog while you are away. Take the time to choose a doggy daycare where they can be around other dogs and people. A place where they can receive adequate stimulation and care in a safe environment.
And remember, mental stimulation activities not only help your dog stay healthy, but it’s a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your dog. It’s a win-win! There are many ways you can help activate your dog’s mind.
Get creative! Mentally stimulate yourself while you’re at it! Fun!
By: Kathleen Beatriz Lapig
