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8 Brain Games for Dogs: Vet-Approved Fun & Stimulating Activities

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Image Credit: Flatka, Shutterstock

Last Updated on June 27, 2024 by Dogster Team

VET APPROVED

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Alice Athow-Frost

BVM BVS MRCVS (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Dogs are not just those beloved friends that cheerfully join us on our daily walks; they are also brilliant companions who enjoy mentally stimulating games and thrive when playing them. As you might expect, a mentally stimulated pup is a happier and better-adjusted pup than those that are left to become bored. They also tend to exhibit fewer destructive behavior problems and enjoy a better overall quality of life.

With brain games, it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive for dog owners to provide their pets with enjoyable ways to challenge their intellect, stave off boredom, and strengthen their bond. Read on for various brain games that will keep your four-legged friend sharp, entertained, and happy!

The 8 Brain Games for Your Pup
1. Hide and Seek

This classic game engages your dog’s sense of smell and problem-solving skills. Start by hiding treats or toys (or yourself!) in various locations around your home or yard. Encourage your dog to find them by using verbal cues or simple commands. As your pup becomes proficient, you can increase the difficulty by hiding items in more challenging places.

2. Puzzle Feeders

Puzzle feeders are fun for turning mealtime or treat time into a mental workout! These devices dispense food in a way that requires your dog to figure out how to access it. Various types of puzzle feeders are available, from simple designs to more complex ones. These keep your dog entertained, slow down fast eaters, and provide mental stimulation as they work to retrieve their meals.

Pro Tip : If your dog is a little too smart and figures out how to solve the puzzle and get to the treats too quickly, pour a bit of water into each compartment where the food is. Then, place the feeder in your freezer until the water is frozen. Give the puzzle to your dog, and watch them lick the ice until they can finally release and gobble up the treats! This tip should only be used as a game, not to feed your dog their regular meals.

Corgi dog bent over interactive educational puzzle toy

3. Interactive Toys

Interactive toys, such as treat-dispensing balls, are similar to puzzle feeders and designed to challenge your dog’s problem-solving abilities. They often have hidden compartments where treats can be placed, requiring your dog to manipulate the toy to access the rewards. Make sure to choose products that are appropriate for your dog’s size and skill level, to ensure that they remain engaged without becoming frustrated.

4. Tug of War With a Twist

Traditional tug of war is a great physical workout, but adding a twist turns it into a brain game. Introduce various rules, such as only releasing the toy on command or waiting for your signal to start playing. This adds an extra layer of mental engagement as your dog learns to follow instructions while enjoying a spirited game.

5. Name That Toy

Most dogs are perfectly capable of learning and recognizing names for various objects. To play “Name That Toy,” start by selecting a few of your pup’s favorite plushies. Place them in a row, and using consistent verbal cues, ask your dog to bring you a specific toy. Reward them with praise and treats when they choose the correct one. This game will help sharpen their memory and reinforce communication between you and your furry pal.

6. DIY Obstacle Course

Create an obstacle course using household items in your backyard or living space. Set up hurdles, tunnels made from blankets or cushions, and weaving poles. Help your dog get through the course using treats and positive reinforcement. This game is a great way to squeeze more exercise into your pup’s day while also challenging their coordination and problem-solving skills.

7. Peanut Butter in a Kong

Turn a Kong toy into a yummy stimulating activity by stuffing it with peanut butter (or if you prefer, a mixture of wet dog food and treats), then freezing it. The challenge for your dog is to figure out how to extract the frozen goodies. This occupies their time and provides a refreshing delight, especially on warm days.

Side Note : In case you’re wondering, yes, it’s safe for healthy dogs to have one or two teaspoons of peanut butter a day. Just make sure it doesn’t contain xylitol, as that is extremely toxic to dogs.

8. Scent Trail

Tap into your dog’s extraordinary sense of smell by creating a scent trail for them to follow. Begin by rubbing a treat or toy against the ground to leave a specific scent. Gradually increase the difficulty by making the trail longer or incorporating turns.

Why Does Mental Stimulation Matter?

Dogs, especially those with high intelligence levels , can easily become bored when their minds are not adequately engaged. Boredom often leads to destructive behaviors, such as chewing furniture, excessive barking, and digging. Mental stimulation helps redirect this energy into positive activities, reducing the likelihood of destructive behaviors and promoting a calm demeanor. 3

Also, just like humans, our loyal four-legged friends benefit from solving problems. Brain games challenge them to think, plan, and execute strategies to reach a goal. Engaging in activities that require problem-solving skills helps them develop their cognitive abilities and keep their minds sharp as they age.

Mental stimulation is about not only challenging your pet’s intellect but also providing a positive outlet for excess energy . Indeed, dogs that lack mental stimulation may experience heightened stress and anxiety levels, which can negatively impact their overall well-being.

Incorporating brain games into your dog’s routine is a win-win for both of you. These activities provide essential mental stimulation and strengthen the bond between you and your lovely and smart pup. That said, choosing games appropriate for your dog’s size, age, and skill level is crucial to ensure a sufficiently challenging experience. After all, you’ll want to make sure your canine doesn’t figure out the scheme in just 2 minutes!

See also: Dog Friendly Activities in Detroit
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/do-it-yourself-cognitive-dog-toys-for-home/
https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/smartest-dog-breeds
https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-peanut-butter
https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/endocrine/c_dg_xylitol_toxicity
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8388720/

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About the Author

Genevieve Dugal

A biologist and science writer, Genevieve has a special fondness for capuchin monkeys, pumas, and kangaroos, which has inspired her to volunteer and work at wildlife rehabilitation centers in countries like Bolivia, Guatemala, Canada, and Australia. Now living as a Canadian expat in Argentina, she enjoys the sight of horses and cows outside her home office window every morning. Genevieve is the proud owner of three r rescue dogs —Lemmy, Nala, and Pochi—and a lively kitten named Furiosa. She finds happiness and fulfillment in sharing her passion and extensive knowledge of animals with others.

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10 great brain games for dogs

These vet-approved brain games for dogs will give your pup a great mental workout and help them learn new skills too!

What are the benefits of brain games for dogs?

How do you mentally stimulate a dog, do brain games tire your dog out, which breeds benefit most from mental stimulation, what brain games can i play with my dog, brain games for dogs.

Brain games for dogs are a wonderful way to give your pup's mind a good workout. While physical exercise is super important, mental stimulation and enrichment is also vital for your dog's health and wellbeing. Not only can brain games help to banish boredom and prevent destructive behaviors, they're super fun too!

If you've been pondering the reasons why your dog's recall isn't reliable or tearing your hair out because your canine companion has strewn their toys all over the floor, we have great news — as well as providing your pup with mental exercise, brain games can assist them in learning new skills. And they're great for helping senior dogs stay alert and active.

Below, expert vets Dr. Joanna Woodnutt and Dr. Hannah Godfrey discuss the benefits of mental stimulation, what dog breeds benefit most, and share some of their favorite easy games that require very little equipment or setup. So, grab a bag of the best dog treats (you'll need them for many of these fun activities!) and let's dive in...

After graduating as a veterinarian from the University of Nottingham, Dr Joanna Woodnutt went on to practice companion animal medicine in the Midlands, UK. Dr Woodnutt is specifically interested in consulting and helping her clients understand their pets better, whether it’s around medical problems such as dermatology, behavior, and nutrition.

Dr Hannah Godfrey is a small animal vet who graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2011 and began work straight away at a busy mixed practice. Initially, she treated all species, but focussed on small animals from 2014. She has a passion for soft tissue surgery, ultrasound, and canine and feline dentistry, having completed additional training in these areas.

1. Can help reduce frustration, boredom, and destructive behavior

"Keeping your dog occupied and stimulated will help to prevent boredom, which can lead to chewing, scratching, and other destructive behavior," says Godfrey.

"While chewing household items causes damage to your property, it also poses a health risk to your dog. I have seen many dogs in practice who have chewed up items of clothing, toys, or even furniture and have subsequently required surgical treatment to remove foreign material from their stomach or intestine."

2. Encourage independent play

"This is particularly useful in puppies but applies to any dog who struggles in moments without your company and attention. This doesn’t just reduce boredom; it also builds your dog’s self-confidence and may reduce separation anxiety over time," explains Godfrey.

3. Improve or maintain your dog’s memory and cognitive ability

"As humans, it’s noted that regular brain ‘training’ can help to maintain cognitive function during the aging process, and this may also be true for dogs. Therefore, giving your dog regular brain training tasks can keep them on the ball (so to speak) and may reduce or delay signs of cognitive decline associated with age," Godfrey says.

"There are lots of ways to encourage your dog to use his brain and stimulate him mentally," says Woodnutt. "Some are simple, like letting him sniff on a walk. Others are more difficult, such as training or canine sports.

"Whilst some types of mental stimulation need specialized equipment, the vast majority don’t – and since every dog should have some sort of mental stimulation, it’s all about finding the right brain game for you and your dog."

"All types of mental stimulation are tiring for dogs – just as school is tiring for humans," Woodnutt explains. "Learning new things requires effort and energy, as does putting the brain to work solving puzzles.

"Our modern dogs lead luxurious lives, but one downside of this is that they can quickly get bored and lazy. Adding brain games to your dog’s routine is a great way to tire him out."

"Young dogs and those with high energy levels will benefit most from mental stimulation. This would include working dogs like spaniels, labradors, and beagles," says Godfrey.

"However, mental stimulation and enrichment will have a positive effect on the majority of dogs and can encourage more activity in dogs who are often sedentary. This means it’s a great idea for dogs who have mobility issues or are recovering from surgery."

"Even if your dog isn’t likely to hold world records for intelligence, it’s still important for them to use their brain. In fact, mental exercise is good for behavior and may even help to slow the onset of dementia," says Woodnutt.

So, what brain-training games can you try with your dog? Below, Woodnutt has listed her tried-and-tested top brain games that her own dog loves and we're confident that they'll get the big paws up from your own canine companion!

1. Find the treats

What you'll need: A packet of dog treats | Duration: 10 minutes

Hide a few dog treats around a room in your house
Tell your dog to 'find the treats', giving encouragement as you do
Once you've played this game a few times with your dog, increase the difficulty by hiding the treats in more challenging places

This game allows your dog to use their most powerful sense – their nose – and engages the parts of their brain used for sorting scents.

"The length of time that this game takes will depend on how good your dog is, and over time they’ll get better and better at it," says Godfrey. "This means you’ll have to find better hiding places or even use a snuffle mat to hide the treats.

"Because this game uses food, it’s important not to overdo it, or else your dog will gain weight. Initially, this game could take ten minutes or more, but rather than using time as a guide, ensure you’re using the same amount of food, even as they get better at it.

"It’s important to always factor this food into your dog’s daily calorie allowance, so you might decide to use a handful of their daily kibble for this instead."

2. Which cup?

What you'll need: Two or more cups, some dog treats | Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

Place some treats under a cup
Say 'which cup' and then wait for your dog to look at or put their nose on the cup
Lift the cup up as soon as they've selected one, allowing them to have the treat
Once they've got the idea that 'which cup' means they should indicate the cup containing a treat, you can add more cups and even move them around slowly so your dog has to work harder to indicate the right cup

This is a fun game that works on your dog’s patience and impulse control as well as their focus – they’ll be watching you like a hawk when you try to mix up the cups.

"Again, as your dog gets better at this, they’ll get much quicker. However, it’s also more likely to engage them for longer once they get the hang of it," Godfrey suggests.

"You could aim to spend 10 to 15 minutes playing this game, but the most important thing is not to get carried away and give them too much extra food!"

3. Learn a new trick

What you'll need: A pinch of patience! | Duration: 10 minutes

You might be thinking that this isn’t really a game, but all tricks and commands should be taught in a fun way – and they are certainly good brain training. This doesn’t have to be a ‘serious’ command like recall or sit – why not pick something fun? If you’re stuck for trick ideas, you could choose one of the following:

‘Spin’ and ‘twist’ – a clockwise and counter-clockwise turn. It’s extra-impressive if they can go both ways
‘Shy’ – dog paws at his nose as if shy
‘Speak’ – teach your dog to bark on command. This one is useful as it’s also the first step in teaching your dog not to bark at all
‘Bow’ – if your dog knows a few tricks, they’ll need the bow command for the end of their performance

"Learning a new trick isn’t easy for every dog, and it requires patience from both you and them," says Godfrey.

"It’s a good idea to be consistent and work on the trick regularly, around ten minutes every day or every other day would work. However, if your dog keeps losing interest before the ten minutes is up, come back to it another time. And don’t forget to give plenty of encouragement."

4. Towel roll

What you'll need: An old towel, some dog treats | Duration: 30 minutes

Lay an old, clean towel on the floor
Spread dog treats over it
Roll up the towel so that the treats are spread in each layer
Give it to your dog and let the figure out how to unroll the towel in order to get the treats
To make this game extra hard, you can use several towels

"This game could keep your dog entertained for half an hour or more, especially when they’re new to it!," says Godfrey. "It's great when you want a longer form of mental stimulation and to encourage independent play, because you don’t need to worry so much about overfeeding them – the effort they have to put in to find each treat/dog biscuit means that you don’t need to use too many."

5. Which hand?

What you'll need: Dog treats | Duration: Two to three rounds

Hide a treat in one hand
Offer both hands to your dog
Ask him to choose one
When your dog indicates the correct hand, open it to reveal the treat and let him eat it
Repeat two-three times, making it more difficult as you go

"This game is quicker than the ‘which cup’ game, as you can’t very easily switch hands during the game (doing so behind your back too many times could lead to frustration)," explains Godfrey. "Since a treat or food is required for each round, it’s best not to play this for more than two or three rounds at a time."

6. Dog parkour

A bull terrier dog jumps over a wooden obstacle lying on the grass

What you'll need: Whatever is in your environment | Duration: 30 minutes or more

Teach your dog some basic commands - to go over things, under things, weave and to walk along a narrow wall or similar
Once your dog has got the hang of these, add a bit of parkour into your daily walk (a combination of energetic exercise and brain work)
Ask them to leap onto the wall and walk along it, weave through bollards, or crawl under the slide in the park

"This game requires complete focus on you whilst your dog waits for the next command," says Woodnutt.

Godfrey adds, "Since this game involves physical activity too, there’s less risk of overfeeding and weight gain. This means you can safely play this game for half an hour or more, as often as you and your dog would like!"

7. Learn a new word

What you'll need: Dog toy | Duration: Train in short bursts

Choose an unnamed toy
Play with the toy often, using the word 'teddy' whenever you instigate the game
Start to leave teddy out of reach and say 'teddy', then reward your dog for looking towards or picking up his toy
Soon he'll have the hang of all his toys and you'll be able to start naming other objects, like 'slippers'

"This game works on your dog’s memory and improves his ability to learn," says Woodnutt.

"Depending on whether you reward your dog with praise, a fuss, or food, and how far away the objects are that they are retrieving, you might want to modify how long you play this game for to avoid inadvertently giving too many treats," adds Godfrey.

"However, in the early stages when learning a new word, it’s best to mention the new word often and train in short bursts."

8. Hide and seek

What you'll need: Just your imagination! | Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

Tell your dog to sit and stay (or have a family member hold onto him)
Go and hide and then call your dog
Praise him when he finds you
Step it up a notch after a few rounds and hide in more difficult places (under the bed or up high) or have several people hiding that your dog has to find

"A great game for rainy days, with children, or for dogs working on their recall, hide and seek is simple and requires little set up or training," says Woodnutt.

"Your dog will be using energy as they search for you (as long as you’re good at hiding!), so you don’t need to worry so much about giving them too many treats," Godfrey adds.

"Equally, many dogs will play this game just for the excitement and verbal praise they receive when they find you. Depending on how good your dog is at hide and seek, you could play this game for 10 or 15 minutes; but be sure not to cause them anxiety or frustration by making the game too hard."

9. Putting away toys

What you'll need: Any toys lying around the house | Duration: As long as you like

"After all that play, there might be a bit of a mess. Teaching your dog to put away his own toys can take time – but watching them learn is part of the fun!," says Woodnutt

Before you start teaching this game, ensure your dog is well versed in the 'drop it' command
Get your dog to pick up a toy near his basket and ask him to 'drop it' as he moves close to, or hovers over, the basket
Reward him every time he gets close, giving him extra praise if the toy goes into the right place
In time, you'll be able to ask him to tidy up his toys after a play session

"This game will take much longer in the beginning, and you might only be able to persuade your dog to pick up and drop one toy," says Godfrey. "However, as they learn, you could spend up to ten minutes tidying toys."

10. Chase the treat

What you'll need: Dog treats | Duration: Up to 15 minutes

"One of the easiest games to play, with almost no training involved, is ‘chase the treat’. It’s good fun and allows your dog to practice recall and coming back to you," says Woodnutt.

Find a wide, open space where your dog is safe off-lead (or a long trailing line can be used for security). You’ll also need a treat big enough for your dog to see, but not so big they take a long time to eat, and ideally a bit round – your dog’s kibble might be perfect!
Get your dog’s interest in the treat, by moving your hand back and forth and making it exciting, then throw the treat away and tell your dog to ‘go get it then’
Once they’ve done so, call them back to you and get them to sit and wait for the next round
As your dog gets to anticipate the game, vary how far and in which direction you throw the treat, or throw it high or roll it along the ground
Each time, make sure your dog comes back to you before starting the next game, as you want them to learn that you are the source of the fun, not hanging around in the distance waiting for treats to be thrown their way.

"As this game involves burning energy, overfeeding is a little less of a concern. However, the stopping and starting involved in waiting for and chasing the treat could risk causing damage to your dog’s joints or soft tissues if played for too long, so it’s best to do it for no longer than 15 minutes," Godfrey advises.

There are tons of brain games for dogs you can play with your pooch. Some require hard work on your part, whilst others are relatively easy. But regardless of which game you choose, engaging your pup's mind as well as their body is wonderful for their overall health and wellbeing.

And if you're looking for more inspiration on how you can add more stimulation and enrichment into your fur friend's life, check out these clever ways to have more fun with your dog on walks .

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After graduating as a veterinarian from the University of Nottingham, Dr Joanna Woodnutt went on to practice companion animal medicine in the Midlands. She quickly developed a love of consulting and helping clients with medical problems such as dermatology, behaviour and nutrition - anything that involved helping clients understand their pets better. Jo started writing about pet health in 2017, realising that it meant she could help even more pet parents. Since then, she has written for countless online and print publications and is a regular contributor for Edition Dog Magazine. Jo now lives in the Channel Islands with her husband Ian and terrier Pixie, and they are expecting their first child very soon.

Kathryn Williams Freelance writer
Dr. Hannah Godfrey BVetMed MRCVS Vet

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10 Fun Brain Games For Dogs

Last updated on February 1, 2024 By Puppy Leaks 17 Comments

Looking for some fun and easy ways to entertain your dog and keep them mentally stimulated ? If so try adding a few of these fun brain games into their routine.

Brain games are a great way to bond with your dog, plus they’re good for teaching basic manners. Mentally stimulating activities like brain games enrich our dogs lives by giving them something meaningful to do, and because these activities alleviate boredom they can decrease the likelihood of our dogs developing behavioral issues such as excessive chewing or barking.

If you’re looking for some easy ways to challenge your dog’s mind (and keep them out of trouble) here’s 10 fun brain games for dogs.

Find the Treats

My absolute favorite brain game for dogs is a game of find the treats. It’s super easy to play (you just need treats), and it can be played pretty much anywhere.

Simple nose work game like find the treats will keep your dog mentally stimulated, and it’s a fun way to let them hone in on their natural sniffing and scavenging abilities.

How to play find the treats with your dog:

Grab some treats and have your dog sit in a stay position
While your dog is in the stay position put a few treats on the ground around them
Give your dog a release command and tell them to “find the treats”
Encourage them as they start picking up the treats
Practice a few times until your dog understands what “find the treats” means
Start placing the treats further away and repeat steps 3 & 4
Start placing the treats in more challenging places that are out of sight such as under a rug or on a chair and repeat steps 3 & 4

Keep in mind that although dog’s have an excellent sense of smell that doesn’t mean they’ll automatically use it right away when playing this game. If they’re not used to sniffing things out it’ll take a little practice. That’s why gradually increasing the difficulty of where you hide the treats is important.

You’re teaching them to start utilizing their scent to find the treats rather than just relying on sight. Finding the treats themselves is rewarding for your dog, and the addition of your encouragement during the game can keep it exciting.

After your dog has a good concept of what “find the treats” means you can keep upping the game to make it more of a challenge for them. Since Laika’s been playing this game for years she’s gotten pretty good at it. She’ll hunt out those treats wherever I hide them — under rugs, on furniture, or on the window sill behind a curtain. All of those various hiding spots keep it exciting for her, and it’s a really simple way to keep her entertained.

One of my favorite brain games for dogs is “find the treats.” It’s easy to play, and it’s mentally stimulating. It gives your dog the opportunity to use some of their natural instincts to work for food.

Food Dispensing Toys

Another fun brain game for dogs is using food dispensing toys . A food dispensing toy is any toy that contains food and requires your dog to work to figure out how to obtain the food. To use a food dispensing toy you simply fill it up with treats and encourage your dog to engage with it. As your dog starts moving the toy around it’ll start dispensing treats.

Food dispensing toys are a great way to give your dog some extra mental stimulation. And as with other food related games they give your dog a chance to use their natural scavenging abilities in a fun and challenging way. In the wild our dogs spent a lot of time hunting and searching for food, so they’re pretty receptive to the idea of having to work for their food. Food dispensing toys are an easy way to emulate those natural instincts .

My favorite food dispensing toys are the Bob-A-Lot & the Kong Wobbler . There’s plenty of DIY options as well. You can make your own food dispensing toy out of an old plastic container , bottle , or PVC .

Dog Puzzles

One of my favorite brain games for dogs is using puzzles. They come in a wide variety, but they all have one thing in common — your dog has to figure out how to get the reward (treat). Like other food related games they provide your dog with plenty of mental stimulation and help relieve boredom .

Dog puzzles come in many shapes and sizes , and they’re available at most pet supply stores. Some of them are quite challenging, and others are pretty basic. Some will keep Laika busy for a few minutes, but others take a few seconds.

If you’ve never given your dog a puzzle before I’d start by making your own DIY doggie puzzle out of a muffin tin & tennis balls . You can gauge your dog’s interest in puzzles with it, and determine what level of difficulty is best for them.

The Which Hand Game

The which hand game is an easy way to stimulate your dog’s brain — and the only thing you need to get started is some treats.

How to play the which hand game with your dog:

Grab some treats and have your dog stay in the sit position
Allow your dog to watch as you place a treat in one of your hands
Close your hands into a downward facing fist and extend them out to your dog and ask “which hand?”
Once your dog touches or signals the correct hand praise them and give them the treat

If your dog doesn’t catch on right away don’t worry. Some dogs get super pumped up by treats and will start pawing at both of your hands due to excitement. By only rewarding them when they touch the correct hand they’ll start to catch on. (if they’re struggling with being polite during this game you may want to work on some impulse control )

The “which hand” game with your dog is a great way to help your dog work on their problem solving skills.

Stuffed Kong

One of my favorite brain games for dogs is using a stuffed Kong. I love them because they’re a really simple way to keep my dog busy and mentally stimulated for a long period of time. You can put some treats in there to give your dog something to work for, or if you’re looking for something more challenging try freezing it overnight. If you’re not sure what to use check out our list of 39 healthy treats to stuff in a Kong .

Stuffed Kongs are fun and mentally stimulating for dogs. Kongs are great because they’re dishwasher safe (easy to clean) and pretty tough. We’ve had ours for years and my dog hasn’t been able to put a dent in it. If you’re not a fan of Kongs check out the West Paw Tux toy — it’s my favorite alternative (they are much smaller).

Using a stuffed Kong is also a great way to keep your dog busy while you’re at work. Put your stuffed Kong in the freezer overnight and give it to your dog in the morning as you’re leaving. A frozen Kong will last 30+ minutes for most dogs — much longer if it’s filled completely.

If you’re looking for a way to keep your dog busy and mentally stimulated with minimal effort you can’t go wrong with using a stuffed Kong.

The Shell Game

The shell game is another simple brain game for dogs. You’ve probably seen it before — it’s the game where a treat is hidden under one cup (or shell) and then shuffled around. The shell game will give your plenty of mental stimulation by giving them a chance to work on their problem solving skills.

How to play the shell game with your dog:

Grab 3 cups and some treats
Have your dog watch as you place a treat under one of the three cups
Shuffle the cups around
Encourage your dog to find the cup with the treat underneath

Hide & Seek

Playing a game of hide and seek is by far one of my dog Laika’s favorite games. It’s a fun interactive game you can play with your dog, and it’s mentally stimulating. If your dog doesn’t have a good stay command down you can ask a friend to help by having them distract your dog as you go and hide.

How to play hide and seek with your dog:

Have your dog sit in a stay position (or enlist help if your dog keeps peeking)
Find a hiding spot
Call your dog
Praise when they find you

Laika loves a game of hide and seek, and even though I keep picking the same 3 hiding spots over and over she doesn’t seem to mind. Hide and seek lets your dog use some of their natural scent tracking abilities in a fun and stimulating way.

Put Your Toys Away

I know what you’re thinking — putting things away is the opposite of fun, but hear me out for a minute. Teaching your dog something new such as putting their toys away is mentally stimulating. And if you teach them how to do it in a positive way you can make a fun game out of it.

If your dog’s toys are kept in a container you can teach them to put their toys away . I know it sounds weird to teach your dog to clean up after themselves, but it’s actually a lot of fun. Teaching your dog new skills boosts their confidence, and it’s a great way to give them more mental stimulation.

If your dog already knows “ drop it ” have them pick up a toy and give them their drop it command once they’re standing over the container. Praise them like crazy, then repeat. With some practice and consistently you’ll have a dog that knows how to clean up after himself, and best of all he’ll enjoy it.

Dogs enjoy learning new skills (as long as you keep it positive), and teaching your dog new skills, such as putting their toys away, will boost their confidence and keep them mentally stimulated.

The (Toy) Name Game

Another fun brain game for dogs is the name game, and the best way to do it is by using your dog’s toys. Do you already have names for your dogs toys? If so you’re already ahead of the curve.

Start by playing with your dog and one specific toy, giving it a name while you do. After some practice & praise your dog will assign that verbal name with the chosen toy. Once your dog has learned that specific toys name you can test their skills by seeing if they can pick it out among their other toys. After your dog knows the name of one toy you can move on teaching them the name of another.

On average dogs can learn 165 different words , so your dog has the potential to learn the names of a lot of different toys. My dog knows the names of about 30 toys, and having her pick specific ones out of a pile is a great way to boost her problem solving skills. Chaser the Border Collie, an extraordinary example seen in the video below, knows the names of 1000+ toys.

Learning New Tricks

Learning new tricks isn’t the first thing you probably thought of when it comes to brain games for dogs, but they are be a fun way to challenge your dog’s mind (as long as you keep it positive). And teaching your dog new skills is a great way to boost your dog’s confidence.

Does your dog know how to weave through your legs and jump through a hoop? There’s always a new trick you can teach your dog. And teaching your dog how to weave through your legs is a lot easier than it sounds.

Here’s a list of 52 tricks with instructions that you can work on. Once your dog knows a bunch of tricks you can step it up a notch and combine those behaviors into new tricks .

What Are Your Dog’s Favorite Brain Games?

What are your favorite brain games for dogs? Do you play hide and seek with your dog? Does your dog enjoy a game of “find the treats?” Let me know in the comments below.

10 Fun Brain Games For Your Dog #dogs #dogtraining #dogtips #doglovers

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15 Brain Games for Dogs: Unlock Your Dog’s Inner Genius

There are a lot of different options for you to entertain your pup. And brain games for dogs are among the best.

Often you will have to go above and beyond to find ways to stimulate a dog’s brain, and that’s why I’ve collected a whole lot of different games with varying levels of difficulty to really challenge your dog.

So keep reading and see all of these different fun brain games for dogs!

Table of Contents

The 15 Best Brain Games for Dogs

Playing games with your dog is a great way to keep them mentally stimulated and engaged. It can also be a fun way to bond with your furry friend. However, not all games are created equal, and not all dogs enjoy the same activities.

In this article, we’ll explore games such as Hide and Seek, a classic that most dogs love, and numerous other games you can play with your furry friend.

Hide and Seek

Hide and Seek is a game that has been enjoyed by children for generations, and it turns out that dogs love it too. The game involves hiding and having your dog find you. This activity can be played with one or more people and can be adjusted to the skill level of your dog. It’s a game that doesn’t require any expensive equipment and can be played indoors or outdoors.

To play Hide and Seek, start by having your dog sit and stay while you go and hide. You may want to start with an easy hiding spot at first so that your dog can quickly find you. Once you are hidden, call your dog’s name and encourage them to come to find you. When they do find you, make sure to give them plenty of praise and love.

One great thing about Hide and Seek is that it can be adjusted to the skill level of your dog. For dogs who are just starting, you may want to make it easy by hiding in an obvious location, such as behind a couch or in a closet with the door slightly open. As your dog gets better at finding you, you can make the hiding spots more challenging, such as hiding in a place that requires your dog to jump up or climb over something.

Another great thing about Hide and Seek is that it doesn’t require any treats, making it a great option for dogs who are watching their weight. Instead of using treats as a reward, you can use praise and affection to reinforce good behavior. This can help to build a stronger bond between you and your dog.

Dog Puzzles

Dog puzzles are an excellent way to give your furry friend the mental stimulation they need while also relieving boredom. You can find puzzles in various shapes and sizes, and they all have one thing in common: the dog must figure out how to get the hidden treat on their own.

Pet supply stores offer a variety of puzzles that range from basic to challenging. Some puzzles can keep a dog occupied for several minutes, while others take just a few seconds to solve. The PAW5: Wooly Snuffle Mat and the Outward Hound Puzzle Toy (affiliate link) are two of our favorite puzzles that we have tested and tried.

Puzzles are an excellent way to keep dogs of all ages engaged and entertained. They provide mental stimulation that can help keep them sharp and prevent boredom. Dogs that are left alone for long periods can benefit from the extra entertainment that a puzzle can provide. Furthermore, they can help to improve problem-solving skills and boost confidence.

Remember to supervise your dog when they are playing with a puzzle. Some puzzles have small pieces that can become a choking hazard if they are not used correctly. Puzzles that are too challenging can lead to frustration, which can lead to destructive behavior. By starting with a simple puzzle, you can help build your dog’s confidence and prepare them for more challenging puzzles in the future.

Indoor Agility Course

When outdoor play is not an option, creating an indoor obstacle course can keep your dog entertained . Look around your house for items like your dog ’ s toys, chairs, towels, and blankets to set up an obstacle course. For example, have your dog walk around each chair, jump over or duck under towels, and perform tricks in a blanket-covered area. Use your imagination to create a challenging course.

Indoor agility courses are a great way to provide mental stimulation for your dog but can be time-consuming to set up and take down. So, it’s recommended to start with a simple course and gradually increase the difficulty level. With patience and consistency, your pup will become an agility master in no time.

It’s essential to ensure the safety of your dog while setting up an indoor agility course. Remove any hazardous objects and make sure that the course is not too difficult for your dog’s skill level.

Overall, indoor agility courses are a fun way to keep your dog mentally and physically engaged when outdoor activities are not possible. They are also a great bonding experience for you and your furry friend. So, let your creativity flow and have fun creating obstacle courses for your beloved pup.

Treasure Hunting

Treasure hunting is an easy game you can play with your dog that will stimulate their brains and senses. Start by having your dog sit and stay while you hide a treat somewhere obvious. Once your dog understands the game, you can start making it more challenging by hiding the treat in harder-to-find places.

Introduce a cue to start searching, like “find it,” and reward your dog with praise and attention when they find the treat. As your dog gets better at the game, you can gradually increase the difficulty level.

Treasure hunting is a great way to entertain your dog, and it requires little effort from you. It’s also an excellent way to bond with your furry friend and provide them with mental stimulation. Try it out, and you and your dog are sure to have a blast!

The Muffin Tin Game

The muffin tin game is a great option for those short on time but wanting to stimulate their dog’s brain. It can provide hours of entertainment for your furry friend.

First, find a muffin tin or something similar that can hold tennis balls. Make sure the balls fit snugly, so they won’t come out too easily but not too hard for your dog to remove.

Next, put treats with a strong scent into some of the holes and cover them with tennis balls. Your dog will have to figure out how to remove the balls to get the treats. If they’re having difficulty, start with something smaller to make it easier for them.

If you’re unsure about what treats to use, try using everyday snacks like eggs or bananas that you likely have at home. Your dog will love the challenge, and you’ll love watching them figure it out.

The Cup Game

This is another good game to play with your dog, but be aware that it does require some brainpower. And while you can increase the difficulty of the game, your dog might never quite grasp it, so you might have to keep it simple.

Take two cups and put them in front of your dog. Then put a treat under one of the cups.

Once you’ve put the treat under the cup, let your dog guess exactly what cup it’s placed under. In the beginning, you should give them the treat anyway, no matter what cup they choose. And after 12-15 tries, they will typically start to figure out that every time they guess a cup, they will receive a treat.

Your next step is to no longer give them a treat when they get the wrong cup. This will usually take a lot more time for your dog to understand. But with continued practice, in most cases, they’ll soon learn just to guess.

When they are able to guess the difference between the wrong cup and the right cup, you can make the game even harder. Now you start swapping the cups around, and your dog might not be able to guess correctly any longer.

Instead of switching the cups around, you could always try to just add another cup or two to the game as well.

If your dog has problems guessing correctly, it doesn’t mean that they’re not smart. As with humans, dogs’ intelligence can show in many different ways. And if they aren’t good at guessing what’s hidden under a cup, they can most certainly still be great at a lot of other things.

Magic Tricks

One game that’s similar to the cup game is perfect to play with your dog. The concept is pretty much the same.

Allow your dog to see you and place some treats somewhere behind you.
Now you should put both your hands behind your back and hide a treat in one of your hands. Now show your dog both hands.
When they nudge at or show interest in one hand, show them that hand. If they’ve chosen the empty hand, close both your hands again and let them get another guess at finding the right hand.
Your dog will in time begin to understand the concept of this game, and they will keep on guessing till they get the right one.

This trick is quite a bit easier than the cup game, so if you just have time for a few quick and easy games, this is a perfect fit.

Red Light, Green Light

If you have a dog that struggles with knowing when to be calm and when to be excited, this is a great game for them. However, if your dog is overly excitable, you will need to be patient.

Before beginning this game, you will need to teach your dog a command to lie down.
Once they have learned this command, take them outside and have them lie down. Then say, “Ready…Set…GO!” and sprint a few steps forward. Stop and say “Down”. If your dog lays down, give them a treat and lots of attention.
As your dog gets better at this game, you can increase the speed. Once they have mastered it, try saying ‘Go’ just as their belly touches the ground. Eventually, your dog will play this game for fun and not just for the reward.

Playing this game with your dog is a great way to bond with them. While it is best played outdoors, it can also be played indoors if you have enough space.

Big or Small

This is another great game that can not only entertain your dog but also teach them a new trick. However, if your dog is overweight, this may not be the best game for them.

Start by taking a handful of kibble and holding it in one hand while holding a single piece in the other.
Extend your closed hands in front of your dog and say “big” as you open both hands.
If your dog goes for the bigger pile, they are allowed to eat it. But if they go for the smaller pile, close your hands and try again.
Repeat this until your dog associates the word “big” with the larger pile of kibble.
Once your dog has learned this, move on to phase two where you say “small” instead of “big”.
Keep practicing until your dog understands both words.
When they have learned both words, you can really start playing the game with them. Eventually, you can say “small” or “big” and your dog should be able to pick the correct pile every time. However, be sure to withhold the treat until they choose the right pile.

Ring Stacking

If you’re up for a challenge, ring stacking is a great game to test your dog’s mental abilities. However, be warned that it takes time and patience for your dog to understand the goal of the game.

First, find some rings and a stick that are the right size for your dog. Wooden, dye-free options are a safe choice. Using a clicker or similar tool, give your dog a treat every time they pick up a ring. Once they’ve learned this step, give them a treat every time they bring a ring to the stick.
At first, you may need to guide the ring onto the stick. Click and treat when the ring is successfully on the stick. It may take several weeks for your dog to fully understand the game, so be patient.
When they’ve mastered the game, try placing the stick on different surfaces, such as a wall or in a different room, to make the game more challenging.

Ring stacking is one of the most difficult brain games for dogs, but it’s a great way to test their mental abilities.

Are you tired of picking up your dog ’ s toys scattered around the house? Then toy pickup might be the perfect game for you and your dog. This game will encourage your dog to pick up its toys and put them away all by itself, freeing up your time.

To begin with, you need to teach your dog the “drop it” command. Give them an item to hold onto, then show them a treat and use the command. If they drop the toy, give them a treat. Repeat this until they understand what “drop it” means.
Next, get them to drop a toy into a box or basket. Guide them to the basket when they have a toy in their mouth and say “drop it.” If they drop it near the basket, still reward them.
Once they can drop the toy correctly, add a new command like “box” to teach them the difference between “drop it” and “box.”
When they can put toys into a box on their own, try taking it further by getting them to pick up a toy with a specific name like “ball.” Eventually, they’ll know precisely what it means when you say “ball” or “box.”

This game requires patience and practice, but it’s worth the effort to have a tidy house and a smart dog. Who knows, maybe you’ll wish you could teach your kids this trick as easily as your dog!

The Name Game

Dogs can actually remember the names of their toys, so teaching them the name can be a fun game.

Here’s how you can do it:

Pick a toy that you want your dog to learn the name of, such as a ball.
Give your dog the toy and say the name of the toy, for example, “ball”. Then give them a treat.
Repeat this for a few days until your dog starts to understand the name of the toy.
To check if your dog knows the name , say the name of the toy when it is nearby, and see if they go for it.

This can be done with every toy, and soon your dog will know all of their toys by name.

Hot & Cold

Playing Hot & Cold with your dog is a great way to test their brainpower, just like how we used to play it with our friends when we were younger. Even though it works best with a clicker, it’s still possible to play without one. However, if your dog gets easily frustrated, this game might not be the best choice for them.

Choose an object you want your dog to pick up and then let them close in on it.
When they start to approach the object, click the clicker, give them a treat, and say “hot”. But if your dog starts to move away from the object, don’t click or treat them, just say “cold”.

This game requires a lot of repetition and patience, but eventually, your dog will understand the difference between “cold” and “hot”. When they finally pick up the object you wanted them to, give them a lot of love, attention, and a treat.

Playing Hot & Cold is a great way to test your dog’s intelligence, and it can be a fun and engaging game for both you and your furry friend.

Obedience Fetch

If you have played regular fetch with your dog countless times and want to try something new and exciting, obedience fetch can be a great alternative.

Start by throwing the ball for your dog as you usually do, but instead of just picking up the ball and bringing it back, you can now train them to do a specific trick before returning the ball.
To get your dog to understand what you want them to do, you might have to start with easy tricks such as sitting or lying down and then gradually move on to more advanced tricks.
Once your dog has learned a few tricks, you can make it more challenging by asking them to perform multiple tricks before fetching the ball.
And to really challenge your dog, ask them to do a different set of tricks every time before they get to fetch the ball again.

This is an excellent way to exercise your dog’s brain, and the best part is that you don’t need to use treats to do it. So if you are worried about your dog’s weight, obedience fetch is definitely worth trying out.

The final brain game for dogs is perfect if your dog already knows a lot of tricks and you want to keep their training fresh and interesting.

This game is easier with a clicker, but it’s not a necessity.

Start by having your dog perform a trick, and when they succeed, give them a treat and use the clicker.
Then say “next trick”, and reward them with another treat.
Repeat this process until your dog repeats a trick twice. At that point, say something like “no, not that one…next trick”, and they’ll learn not to repeat the same trick twice.

When your dog is still a puppy, reward them for anything they do, even if it’s not perfect. For example, if they jump at you, give them a treat, but don’t reward them if they repeat the same behavior.

This game requires patience, but it’s an excellent way to keep your dog’s training fresh and engaging.

Once your dog becomes really good at these games, you can extend playtime to 15-20 minutes.

Bonus Games

If you’ve exhausted all the brain games for dogs, consider checking out the Brain Training for Dogs program created by Adrienne Faricelli.

This program features a variety of enjoyable games that you can play with your furry friend, all presented in simple videos for easy understanding.

By enrolling in the program, you will also gain access to a members’ area where you can directly ask Adrienne any questions and access numerous case studies.

For more information, check out this link. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking for fun and engaging ways to train their dog’s brain.

https://www.mnn.com/family/pets/stories/10-brain-games-to-play-with-your-dog
https://www.cuteness.com/13711223/17-best-mental-exercises-for-dogs
https://www.puppyleaks.com/brain-games/
https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-advice/brain-games-dogs
https://www.justrightpetfood.com/blog/brain-games-for-dogs

Hey there, I’m Thomas and I’m the proud owner of two dogs. I’ve always been a dog lover and have a passion for training and caring for them. Now, I’m excited to share my knowledge and experience with you through my blog on dog training and dog care. Whether you’re a new dog owner or have had dogs your whole life, there’s always something new to learn about these amazing creatures.

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If you’re looking for the most up-to-date recommendations, check out my recommended products section that I’ve created to help every dog owner!

10 Brain Games to Play With Your Dog

These games are perfect for keeping your dog's mind active.

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Animal Rights
Endangered Species

Treasure Hunt

Hide-and-go-seek, ring stackers, hot and cold, 52-toy pickup, the name game, jumping rope, red light green light.

Everyone loves playing a good game of fetch with their dog. It's perfect for getting exercise and having fun. But the downside to the game is that there is no thinking involved — just a lot of running back and forth. So many games with dogs, from fetch to tug-of-war, don't require them to do a whole lot of thinking.

On the other hand, interactive brain games not only tire out your energetic dog, but they also defeat boredom, increase your dog's confidence, and strengthen the bond between the two of you as you work together as a team. So many great activities that you can do with your dog are simply dog-versions of favorite kids' games, all of which exercise and train the brain as much as the body.

Here are 10 brain games for dogs to get you started.

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At Treehugger, we are advocates for the welfare of all animals, including dogs and other domestic pets. We hope our readers will adopt rescue pets instead of shopping from breeders or pet stores and will also consider supporting local animal shelters .

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Getting your dog to use its nose to find hidden treasure is a great way to stimulate its brain and teach your dog to use all of its senses. Starting out, you'll want to set your dog up for success so it understands the game and doesn't get too discouraged. Begin with something simple. Put your dog in a sit-stay and hide a treat or favorite toy somewhere obvious, even letting your dog watch you hide it. Then give your dog the release cue to go find the toy. Reward your dog big-time for its success in finding the hidden treasure.

Once your dog understands the game, ramp up the difficulty. Hide the treat or toy in another room, or some place where other scents mask the treat or toy, like the bottom of the laundry bin or under the food dish. You can also make the game really hard by using cardboard boxes. Set up 10 to 20 cardboard boxes of different sizes and, without your dog seeing, place the reward in only one box. Let your dog investigate all of the boxes and provide the reward or a jackpot treat when it selects the correct box. There are so many variations on this game that it will have the two of you playing different versions for years to come.

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Boost the excitement and reward level of the popular treasure hunt game by making yourself the treasure your dog is tasked to find. You'll need at least two people to play. One person distracts the dog and gives it the sit-stay cue while the other person hides. The person who is not hiding then gives the release cue for the dog to start looking. This game works wonderfully both indoors and outdoors, and is a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon playing with your dog .

Just as toys can teach toddlers eye-hand coordination, they can teach dogs eye-paw (or eye-mouth) coordination. Walking down the aisles of any toy store will set your imagination alight with things you can teach your dog. A tough game that takes awhile to learn, ring stackers will keep you and your dog hard at work together for hours. Patience is the key to success for this activity as it can take days or weeks to perfect the game. It's important to find wooden rings with natural dyes rather than plastic, since your dog will be biting down on the rings quite a bit. Choose rings in a size appropriate for your dog’s size and mouth dexterity.

Clicker training is ideal for learning to stack rings since your dog is feeling, rather than seeing, what it’s doing. One method to try is to click-and-treat your dog when it picks up a ring, then click-and-treat again as the dog moves closer to the stick. Continue by click-and-treating each time the dog touches the ring to the stick and when it tries to maneuver the ring onto the top of the stick.

What Is Clicker Training?

Training a dog by using a device that makes a clicking sound to let the dog know you approve of its behavior followed quickly by a reward or treat.

You can change things up by mounting the stick to a wall so the dog has to fit it onto a horizontal stick rather than dropping it onto a vertical stick. You can also put the rings in a different room so your dog is running back and forth to collect and stack all the rings before earning the jackpot reward.

Dogs love this simple but challenging game because, as with all good games, there are treats involved. Take two opaque plastic cups and flip them upside down. With your dog watching, place a treat under one cup. Give your dog the cue to come turn over the cup and get the treat. Do this eight or 10 times, giving your dog time to really understand the game. After the dog has caught on, alternate which cup you place the treat under. When your dog selects the correct cup, let it have the treat. If the dog doesn't select the correct cup (which will happen, even when it sees you placing the treat under the cup), show the dog the treat under the correct cup but don't let the dog have the treat. This will keep the dog focused on watching which cup you place the treat under so it can guess the correct cup. While the game may sound easy, for many dogs this requires some serious thinking.

If your dog masters this, it's time for even more of a challenge. Place a treat under the left cup, then slide the cups to switch places, so that the cup with the treat is now on your right. Release your dog to find the treat. If your dog selects the correct cup, give it the treat. If your dog doesn't select the correct cup, show it the treat but don't let the dog have it. Keep repeating this and see if your dog can figure out the trick. Some dogs may never quite get how the treat magically switches sides — this is a tough game that requires visual tracking and not all dogs make the connection. But if your dog does, bump up the challenge even more by swapping sides randomly. See if your dog can use its eyes, nose, and thinking skills to find the treat after the old switcheroo. Very few dogs will be successful at this challenging version of the game, so don’t be discouraged if your dog isn’t a whiz at the shell game.

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An activity that boosts your dog's creativity is the "new trick" game. It's a popular game in clicker training because it teaches a dog to think independently and come up with its own ideas about what behavior earns a reward. The premise is simple: Click and treat for a new behavior offered by your dog and ignore a behavior already offered. A typical game between a dog and its owner goes something like this: Say "new trick" and the dog might sit. Click and treat and then say “new trick” again. Repeat the sequence. The game continues as long as the dog does a new trick each time. Once the dog repeats a trick, let the dog know it already did that trick and don’t offer a reward. If the dog returns with a new trick, restart the game with another round of click and treat and a request for a “new trick.” Depending on the dog, this game can sometimes last for 30 minutes or longer.

If your dog isn't used to clicker training for shaping behavior, start simple when teaching this game. The slightest new thing can earn a treat. For example, set a box next to your dog. Click and treat your dog for looking at the box, for touching it with a paw, for touching it with its nose, for stepping on it, for walking around it, for just about any vague interaction with the box. But don't reward the same action twice. Your dog touching the box with his nose earns a reward once, but the second time it earns nothing. Once your dog gets the grasp of the game, expand it to other behaviors like sit, down, crawl, spin, sit up, and so on. Pretty soon, your dog will be going through your entire repertoire of tricks and coming up with new ones just to earn that treat for creative thinking.

The hot and cold game is also ideal for clicker training your dog since it follows the basics of shaping a new behavior. It's great for smart dogs who don't get frustrated too easily. And all you have to do is sit on the couch and say "hot" or "cold" and toss treats. It’s that easy.

Start by coming up with something you want your dog to do. It can be anything — maybe you notice your keys on the floor and you want your dog to go pick them up and bring them to you. Simply sit back with your bag of treats, and any time the dog makes a move that edges them closer to the keys, say "hot" with enthusiasm and toss a treat to the dog near the keys. If your dog moves away from the chosen goal, quietly say "cold." If the dog moves back toward the chosen goal, excitedly say "hot!" and toss a treat. You can teach your dog to go touch the doorknob on the other side of the room, grab a blanket from the couch, or pretty much any behavior you can think of.

Cleaning up has never been so much fun. To get your dog to understand the game, start by saying "drop it" to get your dog to drop a toy on command. This is a key component to getting your dog to the next step which is dropping a toy in a particular location. After your dog has mastered the drop-it command, start shaping your dog to drop toys in a basket or box. Click and treat stages of the behavior a little at a time — when your dog heads toward the basket with the toy or drops the toy near the basket. Anything that leads closer to the behavior of dropping the toy in the basket should be rewarded. Eventually, your dog will understand that a command like "put it away" means to grab a toy and take it to the basket, drop it in, and leave it there.

After this part is mastered, build up the number of toys your dog picks up. Start with rewarding your dog each time it puts a toy away. Then, begin to slowly reduce the amount of rewards offered. Reward the dog after it puts away two toys, then after three toys, and so on. Eventually, the reward will only come when every toy is put away, and you'll have a dog running around the room finding every toy as quickly as possible in order to win that wonderful jackpot reward of a handful of treats.

Just remember, it takes time to build these skills, and the journey is all part of the game, so have patience. It may take quite a few clicker sessions before your dog understands the meaning of “put it away.” But watching your dog learn and figure things out is part of the fun. Silence, or just a tiny bit of encouragement when your dog gets frustrated, goes a long way in helping it figure out the trick while also gaining confidence.

After your dog has mastered how to put away toys, provide a new challenge by teaching your dog to put away toys by name. Start by teaching your dog the name of specific toys, and then send it to go get a particular toy. Certain breeds — like border collies — are famous for their vocabulary, but even the most stubborn of dogs can learn the names of at least a couple of toys. It just takes a lot of repetition to hammer home the name. One way to get started is to hold a toy, say its name, let your dog grab it, then reward your dog for grabbing the toy. Let's say it's a rubber tug toy named Tug. Hold Tug in one hand, say "Tug," let your dog grab Tug, and give a reward. Repeat this 20 or 30 times. Then set Tug next to a very different toy of equal value, like a rope toy named Rope. Say "Tug" to your dog and if your dog selects Tug, give a reward. If your dog doesn't select Tug but selects Rope instead, say nothing but place Rope back next to Tug. Say "Tug" again and let your dog choose. Once your dog is consistently selecting Tug, place Tug next to another different toy, and repeat the steps until your dog is always choosing Tug over other toys of equal value.

Once your dog is successful with one toy's name, start the whole process over with a different toy, like Rope. Hold Rope, say "Rope," let your dog grab Rope, and give a reward, repeating this 20 or 30 times. Set Rope next to a different toy (but not the first toy, Tug), say "Rope," and only reward your dog when they select Rope. Say nothing if your dog selects the other toy, but return it next to Rope and try again. Keep repeating until you have the same consistent success that your dog had with Tug.

Once you've established Rope and Tug and your dog knows the names of these two toys, it's time for a test. Place Rope and Tug next to each other, and ask for Tug. Reward only if your dog chooses Tug. Keep trying until your dog is successful a few times, then switch to asking for Rope. When your dog has this down, consistently selecting the toy you ask for, you're ready to take the test farther by adding in a few more unnamed toys. See if your dog can pick out Tug or Rope from the small pile. If you have success with two toys, then keep the process going for more toys. Who knows how many names your dog will learn!

Eye and body coordination meet with this game. Your dog has to concentrate on the pace of the rope, on targeting a certain spot on the ground, and of course, on jumping. Think it can't be done? You'll be surprised.

Start by teaching your dog to target an object on the ground. A good object to begin with is a stick because it can demonstrate to the dog not just where to jump but also how much space there is to work with on either side so it can stay within the boundaries of the rope. Once your dog has mastered targeting, teach it to jump on that spot on a cue. After that, add in the rope, cueing your dog each time it needs to jump as the rope comes down. It will take a lot of practice, but it will also burn a ton of extra brain and body energy. Plus, this trick will certainly impress the kids in the neighborhood.

This is an ideal game for dogs who tend to get wound up during play and become overly enthusiastic. The game improves a dog's impulse control and reminds it to pay attention to you no matter how much fun it's having. This will ultimately make excursions to the dog park or other off-leash areas much more safe and enjoyable, but it is a game that can be played any time, anywhere.

To play, you’ll need to teach your dog the difference between “red light,” or stop, and “green light,” or go. Begin by having your dog sit or stay, say “green light” and encourage your dog to chase a toy, follow a lure, or run around. As you play with your dog, make sure it stays focused on you so it’s ready for your next command. When you say “red light,” immediately tell your dog to sit or lie down. Continue repeating the sequence until your dog ultimately learns the red light and green light commands without assistance. The video below is a great example of how to teach your dog to play the game.

Arhant, Christine et al. " Balancing Skill Against Difficulty - Behavior, Heart Rate And Heart Rate Variability Of Shelter Dogs During Two Different Introductions Of An Interactive Game ". Applied Animal Behaviour Science , vol 232, 2020, p. 105141. Elsevier BV , doi:10.1016/j.applanim.2020.105141

Fugazza, Claudia et al. " Rapid Learning Of Object Names In Dogs ". Scientific Reports , vol 11, no. 1, 2021. Springer Science And Business Media LLC , doi:10.1038/s41598-021-81699-2

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Brain games for dogs – Treat Treasure Hunt

July 27, 2024

Brain Games are a great way to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated, helping to keep some of the most common dog behaviour issues that I deal with as a dog trainer at bay.

Why brain games are important

When dogs are left alone all day in their backyards, or while their owners go out to work with nothing to do they get bored or anxious as they are just not getting enough mental and physical stimulation in their day.

Many also miss out on the daily walks, training and socialisation required to create a happy, healthy and well behaved dog, so adding some brain games into your dog’s daily activity can help bring some of this together.

Firstly, interactive toys are great way to get your dog’s body and brains working. Treat dispensing toys and puzzles are great for this, using their food or favourite treats to entice them to play.

My dog Darcy loves his treat dispensing balls that I fill with tiny bits of the Vitapet chicken sticks . He loves trying to push them around the house madly, being rewarded every time a small piece of treat falls out.

In my book Eat, Play, Love Your Dog , I talk about the importance of playing games with your dog to build a bond and to help keep many dog behaviour issues at bay. I also provide a few games and ideas such as the Treat Treasure Hunt below, but also others.

Problem solving with brain games

Brain games are great way to add some fun and stimulation into your dog’s day and are also a great way to help strengthen your bond with your dog.

Not only is it fun and interactive, but it also teaches your dog problem solving.

A really simple game that will get your dog’s brain and body moving is the treasure hunt. There are many others in my book, ‘Eat, Play, Love Your Dog’ too.

Treat Treasure Hunt

Playing a treasure hunt with your dog’s treats or kibble engages them mentally and physically.

It taps into their natural scenting skills, which also makes them feel good.

For first timers, you may have to teach them the rules of the game.

Step 1 : For the first couple of times have your dog sit and wait, or restrained on leash, but let them watch as their treats are hidden around the room

Step 2: Release your dog from their sit or leash and, when they target in on a treat, you indicate they are correct by saying ‘yes’ or using a clicker, which is then followed by the reward which is the treat itself.

Once they are reliably doing this, you can say ‘find your treats’ so you are working in some obedience training techniques too.

Step 3 : Some dogs are quicker than others, so if your dog is a little unsure about what to do, you could gently lead or direct them over to where the treat is hidden to help

Step 4: After you are confident that your dog understands what ‘find your treats’ means you can start making it a bit more challenging. Have them stay in another room when you hide the treats

Step 5: As they get better at the game start to hide them in places that really require them to use their nose such as under a rug or even an object like a paper cup

The great thing about this game is that you can use it as you are leaving them alone for a while to reduce both boredom and separation anxiety , particularly once they have a strong association with ‘find your treats’.

Simply hide some treats around the house or yard and as you leave give them the cue phrase ‘find your treats’ so they have a positive association with your departure as they go off hunting for food.

About the Author: Lara Shannon is a certified dog behaviourist and trainer, pet food nutrition specialist, Executive Producer and Host of Pooches at Play on Channel 10 and editor of Poochesatplay.com. Lara also runs her own dog training business in Melbourne’s Bayside area and is the Author of World of Dogs and Eat, Play, Love Your Dog

Separation anxiety in dogs – Tips to help

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Looking for more dog tips and fun facts?

Get your paws on Lara Shannon’s best selling books ‘Eat, Play, Love (your dog) and World of Dogs.

Available in Australia, USA, UK and Canada.

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Dog's Best Life

The information you need to keep your dog happy, healthy, playful and loyal.

Discover the surprising health benefits of brain games for dogs

PUBLISHED: August 2, 2024 | UPDATED: August 2, 2024

Playing brain games with your dog helps develop problem-solving skills.

Dog owners look for ways to keep their pups mentally stimulated and engaged.

While many people focus on physical activities like walks, runs, and fetch, it’s equally important to challenge your dog’s cognitive abilities.

Just as you enjoy a good puzzle or brainteaser, your dog enjoys problem-solving and using its brain.

What type of dog is best suited to benefit from brain games? The simple answer is any dog.

From Chihuahuas to the Great Pyrenees , canines of all shapes, ages, and abilities will benefit from these activities.

Exploring the potential benefits of brain games for specific breeds or age groups of dogs can be a valuable endeavor.

Different breeds and age groups may have varying needs for mental stimulation, and understanding these specific requirements can help develop targeted brain games to keep our canine friends engaged and mentally sharp.

Why brain games matter for dogs

Do brain games tire dogs?

Online retailers, make your own, hide and hunt, diy agility course, frozen treat puzzles, scent games, bottle game, treats under tennis balls.

Add brain games to your dog's daily routine

Increase the challenge

Master dog training: 30 expert tips for a perfectly behaved pup

Mental exercise is essential for a dog’s well-being, just as physical activity is vital to stay healthy.

Playing brain games with your pup can help it develop problem-solving skills and improve its independence, a goal every pet parent strives to achieve.

You can also use brain games to prevent dog boredom.

Here are some excellent benefits when challenging your dog’s brain.

First, these kinds of activities reinforce positive behaviors in dogs by providing them with ample rewards based on cognitive tasks accomplished correctly or at least attempted.

Interactive games and toys allow your pet to hone its problem-solving abilities, creating a stronger relationship with you and the pup.

These enhanced mental engagement sessions help reduce stress due to novelty and can be a great way to prevent boredom-related issues when regular walks or playtime are not included in your daily schedule.

In this case, brain games to prevent dog boredom are an excellent choice.

Finally, these savvy little entertainment tools help bring out natural predatory abilities from canine ancestors.

This allows your dog to express these instincts, thus increasing its levels of obedience in and around the house and other environments.

Red border collie appears to play chess. While the breeds on the DogsBestLife.com smartest dog breeds list may not be able to play chess, they're still pretty amazing.

Dogs are energetic, playful animals that require a lot of physical and mental stimulation .

Many pet owners employ brain games to focus their pup’s energy in a productive direction. But do these activities tire dogs out and aid them in calming down? The answer is yes.

Teaching puppies to engage in brain games is a great way to provide mental stimulation. Brain games can be as tiring as physical exercise and provide many beneficial results.

Brain exercises challenge your pup’s impulse control and problem-solving skills by engaging multiple senses, including vision, hearing, smell, and taste.

Using all of those senses in such a focused way is tiring.

Even if your pup has trouble keeping up with coordination or physical fitness, you can still stimulate its brain with fun mental activities that enrich and occupy it so you don’t have to worry about too much energy.

Where to buy dog brain games

When it comes time to buy brain games for your dog, here are a few places to look that are worth considering.

Visit your trusted pet store for an extensive selection of products designed specifically for our canine companions.

Oddly, the store will have various interactive toys that can be used as puzzle challenges or treat dispensers.

Another good option is online retailers who specialize exclusively in canine products.

These websites typically have an excellent selection, including puzzle and chew toys, obstacle courses, snuffle mats, and treat mazes.

Finally, if money is tight right now, why not engage in the craft by creating DIY enrichment activities like interactive dog toys or dog puzzle toys at home?

Brain games without breaking the bank

Owner plays hike-and-seek game with dog. Finding ways to boost your dog's brain helps keep him happier and healthier. Try 11 easy and economic games to challenge your dog.

Have you ever wondered if your pup could benefit from mental stimulation without investing in expensive toys?

Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to make free brain games for dogs to help keep your furry friend sharp and engaged.

When selecting brain games for dogs, it’s essential to consider safety first.

It’s also essential to evaluate whether a game is age-appropriate and only use items that are the right size and texture so your dog doesn’t choke or potentially hurt itself.

If needed, start with slower-paced exercises during playtime, depending on each dog’s understanding level. Then, slowly increase the difficulty over time according to what works best.

Here are a few ideas if you’re looking at making doggy brain games yourself:

This classic hide-and-seek game involves hiding treats around the house and letting curious pups use their senses (especially smell) to hunt down goodies and build confidence in their abilities.

Let your dog see you “hide” some of the treats so it knows it should be looking. Choose hiding spots that are easy for your dog to access.

You can set up a simple obstacle course in your backyard using household items like tunnels, cones, and bars for your dog to navigate.

Fill a Kong or similar toy with treats, peanut butter, or plain yogurt, and freeze it. This will give your dog a tasty challenge to work on.

Hide a treat or toy and encourage your dog to find it using its sense of smell. By hiding items in more challenging spots, you can gradually increase the difficulty of this treasure hunt.

To get started, take an empty plastic bottle and add treats or small pieces of dog food.

Then, make teaspoon-size holes so that when rolled around, the treats are dispensed from various places, and your dog can nudge them with its nose or paw.

It’s also great because you can use kibble rather than expensive treats. When placing these holes, be sure not to go too big; you want this to be challenging for your dog.

However, it would be best if you didn’t make it too hard. Otherwise, your furry pal won’t be rewarded for its hard work and will likely give up before getting tired.

This brain game requires minimal materials and comes together in simple steps. Your dog must figure out how to remove the tennis balls to reveal the hidden treats.

Clean a baking tray or pan if previously used for cooking. You want to make sure it’s safe for your pup.

Next, scatter your dog’s favorite treats across the bottom of the tray. You can use small kibble pieces, fruit or vegetables like apples or carrots, or specially-made dog treats .

Place the tennis balls on top of the treats, filling the tray so that the treats are covered and out of direct sight. This is where your dog’s problem-solving skills will come into play.

Bring your dog to the setup and encourage it to investigate. You may want to demonstrate the game by moving a tennis ball to reveal the treats below.

Remember to praise and reward your pup for its efforts as it learns to play the game.

Add brain games to your dog’s daily routine

One of the best ways to incorporate brain games for dogs into your daily routine is to use interactive toys that dispense treats when manipulated correctly.

You can also create DIY brain games using items around the house, such as hiding treats for your dog to find or teaching them new tricks and commands.

Additionally, puzzle toys and games that require problem-solving can stimulate your dog mentally.

Other options include:

Hide and seek: Hide treats around the house or in the yard and encourage your dog to find them. This game exercises their sense of smell and provides mental stimulation.

Training sessions: Incorporate short training sessions into your dog’s daily routine. Teaching them new tricks or practicing obedience commands can challenge their cognitive abilities.

Interactive feeding: Instead of serving meals in a regular bowl, use interactive feeders or food-dispensing toys. This not only slows down their eating pace but also makes mealtime more engaging.

Scent work: Engage your dog in activities that involve sniffing and tracking scents. You can use scent boxes or set up simple scent trails for them to follow.

Adding these brain games to your dog’s daily routine can provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom, resulting in a happier and more fulfilled pet.

To gradually increase the difficulty level of games as the dog becomes more proficient, you can start by introducing new obstacles, increasing the complexity of commands, or using different rewards.

This gradual progression will keep the dog challenged and engaged while allowing continuous improvement and skill development.

Why do dogs like brain games?

Dogs are intelligent creatures with an innate curiosity and love for learning new things.

Playing brain games allows them to exercise their minds as much as they would when tackling a challenging puzzle or engaging in a stimulating conversation.

In doing so, our canine friends can strengthen cognitive abilities such as problem-solving and memory retention — skills essential for health and a good quality of life.

Dogs also appreciate games because of the rewards of completing a game or puzzle. These engaging activities have a bonus reward built into them.

When your pooch succeeds at cracking a puzzle or finds buried treasure mid-game, it gets some yummy snacks, making success all the sweeter (literally). What dog wouldn’t like that?

There are so many benefits of brain games for dogs.

Brain games will stimulate your dog mentally, and your furry friend will benefit from improved mental agility and overall well-being — and have a lot of fun.

Master dog training : 30 expert tips for a perfectly behaved pup

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Brain Games For Dogs: How To Keep Your Pup Mentally Stimulated (And Behaved)

Last Updated: May 1, 2024 | 7 min read | 2 Comments

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Many dogs were bred for specific jobs, like retrieving, tracking, herding, and guarding. These various instincts have become innate, but today, many dogs don’t satisfy these instincts in their daily lives, becoming bored. Bored dogs can exhibit bad or even destructive behavior.

Does this sound like your furry friend? If so, I’ll give you some ideas to keep your pup mentally stimulated and happy. Learn more about brain games for dogs and how to keep your dog mentally active.

Table of Contents

Why Do Dogs Need Brain Training?

Brain games are a great way to keep your dog well-trained and mentally stimulated . But before we give you specific game ideas, we want to point out that training your dog is an essential part of setting him up for mental and behavioral success.

Training your dog’s brain to behave appropriately in all kinds of situations can help keep them mentally alert. How? Because you’re teaching him skills that your dog can remember and use all the time. It’s also a great way to bond with your pup.

Brain Training For Dogs Course

Brain Training For Dogs is an excellent online course that teaches you how to brain-train your dog from puppyhood into adulthood. Adrienne Farricelli, a professional CPDT-KA certified dog trainer, developed this force-free training program that uses positive reinforcement . Many of the topics covered involve correcting bad behavior (excessive barking, jumping, leash pulling, biting, etc.), no matter how ingrained it may be in your dog.

The course teaches you specially designed techniques and games that engage your dog on a higher mental level than methods many other trainers use. Farricelli believes that mental stimulation is vital to correcting bad behavior — and boosting what she calls your dog’s “natural intelligence.”

8 Best Brain Games For Dogs

All dogs need regular physical exercise and interactive play, like fetch , tug-of-war, etc. However, many dogs need more. Here are some of the best mental stimulation games for dogs that we’ve found. Some are easy DIY games, and others are affordable interactive dog toys.

Nina Ottoson by Outward Hound's Dog Brick Puzzle.

There are many dog talking buttons and puzzle games that you can find online or at your pet store. They come in various degrees of difficulty, but most involve your dog figuring out how to get to a hidden treat. Nina Ottoson by Outward Hound’s Dog Brick Puzzle is a popular intermediate-level option for interactive dog toys.

If you want something more advanced, Trixie Pet Products has a fun and challenging flip-board puzzle that will offer plenty of mental stimulation and keep your pup occupied while working on getting to his treats.

Benefits Of Puzzles

Puzzle games help dogs build memory and boost their logic and problem-solving skills. Just like us, dogs need a mental challenge . Making your pup do a brain workout for about 15 minutes is equal to approximately 30 minutes of physical activity. Making them concentrate uses a lot of energy and makes them tired. Mental work like solving puzzles helps relieve stress and anxiety in dogs. Puzzles can be beneficial in working out destructive behaviors and decreasing hyperactivity.

See how our very own Barley loves his puzzles (and treats).

2. Treat-Dispensing Toys

Another fun brain game is a treat-dispensing toy, like OurPets IQ Treat Ball, that can keep your dog mentally stimulated for an extended period of time. The OurPets interactive treat-dispensing toy is available in 3 and 4-inch sizes, and you can adjust the level of difficulty as your dog learns how to get treats faster. See more interactive dog toys .

Our Personal Experience With OurPets IQ Treat Ball

This toy keeps our puppy occupied for hours. And, when Barley stops playing with it, he falls asleep!! It is also impossible for him to chew, which means this toy will thankfully last much longer than most in our home. – Michelle Schenker , Rescue pup parent and website co-founder

Read more about this and other toys we love

3. Stuffed Kong

A stuffed Kong is an excellent way to keep your dog mentally stimulated and occupied for a long time. You can load it with treats or peanut butter — and for an even greater challenge, freeze the peanut butter-stuffed Kong overnight. Your dog will enjoy working for his treat.

You can even turn this into a game by playing a treasure hunt . Show your dog the stuffed Kong, and then tell him to sit and stay while you hide it. Then, release him to go sniff out the treasured prize.

Our Personal Experience With Kong Dog Toys

I have used the classic Kong chew toys with my dogs for over 20 years. These toys are fantastic for super chewers. I have always had large dogs, Labrador mixes, who love to chew. These keep them entertained for hours on end and last for a very long time. They have literally saved my furniture from getting destroyed, and my dogs love them. – Danielle DeGroot , Labrador Retriever parent and website writer

See our reviews of popular Kong toys

4. The Cup Game

This is the dog version of the old hustling cup game. It can help your dog develop problem-solving skills and is a great interactive game for you and your pup to do together.

Get three plastic cups and some yummy-smelling treats
Line up the cups on the floor
Have your dog watch you as you place a treat under one of the cups
Shuffle the cups around
Give your dog the treat when he picks the right cup

In puppies, fun brain games like this help boost brain development and strengthen their bond with their owners. At any age, positive feedback boosts a dog’s confidence and further secures the connection you have. Mental games for dogs are fun for them and you.

5. Hide-And-Seek

Yes, it’s a game you usually play with kids, but your dog can enjoy a good old game of hide-and-seek , too. And it’s yet another game that lets you interact with your dog. If your dog hasn’t mastered the stay command, you can ask a family member or friend to help by having them distract your dog when you go and hide. Be sure to praise your pup when he finds you so he knows he’s mastered the end result.

For a different version of hide-and-seek , you may also want to try out this Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel dog toy. You hide the plush squirrels in the trunk, and your dog is challenged to nuzzle them out. The squirrels have hidden squeakers for added fun.

Our Personal Experience With Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Dog Toy

This is my dog Daisy’s favorite toy. She has had several of these and will take care of the little squirrels for months. Eventually, she tears them up, and we get a new one. This is a perfect toy for her because she loves hiding things and then finding them. We will hide the squirrels themselves all over the yard, and she will search them out. -Danielle DeGroot, Labrador Retriever parent

6. The Name Game

Your dog has likely caught on to everyday terms like “walk,” toy,” and “treat.” But it’s mentally stimulating for him to learn different names for each toy (or person in your home). He’ll have fun learning the terms for each object or person and then seeking them out when you ask him to.

7. Put Your Toys Away

Like the Name Game, this is another fun training game. You can teach your dog to pick up his toys and place them in a container. Tell your dog to “get your toy” or “retrieve,” and then show him where to take them. Once he’s at the toy box, you say, “Drop it.” It may take some time for him to learn what you’re expecting, but training dogs with new skills boosts their confidence and keeps them mentally stimulated.

8. Obstacle Course

Training your dog to go through an obstacle course is a great mental workout. This can be a DIY dog brain game where you arrange some chairs, tables, blankets, toys, etc., and create your own obstacle course. Or, if you want to go all out, you can purchase some agility equipment for your yard.

Outward Hound has an affordable ZipZoom Beginner Dog Agility Training Obstacle Course that includes an adjustable jump, weaving poles, and a tunnel. For a greater challenge, you may want to check out this PawHut Agility Training kit . It comes with an adjustable high jump, tunnel, weave poles, a square pause box, and an adjustable jumping ring.

Homemade Dog Brain Games (Video)

Watch this brief video for a few additional DIY dog brain games you can create with everyday household items.

Make Your Own DIY Dog Games & Puzzles

Not all dog games and brain puzzles need to be bought. With a little time and a few supplies, you can quickly make fun brain games and interactive dog toys at home for your pup.

DIY Dog Puzzle

You can make a DIY dog puzzle if you have a muffin pan, dog treats, and a few toys. You can substitute an egg carton if you don’t have a muffin tin. Hide a few treats in the muffin cups, then cover them with a toy, balled-up paper, or other items. Your pup must sniff through and play with each toy as they seek the treats. You can make a DIY food puzzle the same way. Simply fill up the muffin cups or egg cartons with kibble, then cover the top with cardboard or other items.

A fun and easy interactive dog toy you can try is to make a dig box for your pup. Find an old bin or cardboard box. Sprinkle a few treats at the bottom. Then, cover them with shredded bits of paper such as recycling, old newspapers, ads, etc.

Frozen Treats

Some dogs love frozen treats, like ice cubes or snowballs. Freezing up some tasty bone broth is another way to incorporate a frozen treat into play. You can add these to a food puzzle or toys like the Kong . Hide them around the yard for your pup to find in a scavenger hunt.

DIY Doggie Ramp

You can use a board and a rolled-up towel or blanket to create a doggie see-saw type of ramp . It will not be a huge incline, but dogs love it when it moves. You can add a ball or treat at the other end of the ramp to make it even more fun.

Cardboard Box Maze

Creating a maze out of everyday household items and cardboard boxes can provide tons of fun for your pup. Add treats and toys behind different turns. Create a cozy spot inside for your dog to lay down with a soft blanket. Your pup can spend hours in the maze, and you can easily add new twists and turns. These are also easy to clean up and recycle when you are done.

Don’t Forget To Stock Up On Dog Treats

You want to make sure you have plenty of dog treats when you’re training your dog or using some of these brain game ideas. Dogs are motivated by these tasty rewards, but not all treats are the healthiest options. You may want to consider vegan dog treats or calming treats if you have a highly energetic pup. See the best treats to reward your dog for some of our top recommendations.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Sally has over 10 years of experience researching and testing hundreds of pet toys, accessories, and other methods to keep our four-legged friends mentally and physically stimulated. She’s part of a team of dedicated canine professionals who are committed to the health and well-being not only of our own pups but of all of our readers’ furry friends.

The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease; it is not intended to offer any legal opinion or advice or a substitute for professional safety advice or professional care. Please consult your health care provider, attorney, or product manual for professional advice. Products and services reviewed are provided by third parties; we are not responsible in any way for them, nor do we guarantee their functionality, utility, safety, or reliability. Our content is for educational purposes only.

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10 Best Mind Games for Dogs That Actually Help With Boredom

Thomas Villalpando

November 19, 2023

Brain games are the 2020s solution to make a puppy intelligent. However, not many people understand the mentally stimulating part of brain games.

This read covers A to Z about the 10 best mind games for dogs. But that’s not it.

You’re also going to learn about a recently introduced secret. You can boost your pup’s intelligence a few times more than just playing brain games by utilizing that.

Bookmark this page, and be sure to read each section carefully.

Let us begin, my fellow pet parents!

Quick Summary

The 10 Best Mind Games for Dogs are Brain Training for Dogs Program, The Dog Puzzle, Treats For Improvised Tricks, Name Game For Toys (And Beyond), ‘Which Hand’, Variations of Hide-And-Seek, Shell Game, Toy or Food dispensing Toys, Tug Of War & Learn-A-Word

Brain games are beneficial for dogs and help with intelligence and boredom.

Playing fun brain games with dogs can improve their problem-solving skills, confidence, and understanding, and can also help with behavioral issues.

Table of Contents

Brain Training for Dogs – The Newest Trick in the Market

Why is it important to brain train a dog, 1. treats for improvised tricks, 2. name game for toys (and beyond), 3. the dog puzzle, if you’re using treats, if you’re using toys, 5. variations of hide-and-seek, 6. shell game, 7. toy or food dispensing toys, 8. tug of war, 9. hot or cold, 10. learn-a-word, the big question: does a ‘fun’ brain game mentally stimulate a dog, in conclusion.

This research reveals how dogs’ minds differ based on the breed. But we already know how pups and even some adult dogs struggle to develop their intelligence.

What if I told you there was a simple course to brain train your pup like a pro?

Before I answer that, check if the following are familiar to you:

Your dog is either a pup or needs to be trained.
A family member is struggling to play with the pup.
Your dog has barking, potting, whining, and even hyperactivity problems.
Is your dog aggressive?
Your pup definitely has a chewing problem.
You’re not familiar with brain games for dogs, at all.
And any experience that screams the need of mind training your dog.

If you can relate to any point mentioned above, you should probably check out the brain training online course designed by Adrienne Farricelli.

She’s a professional CPDT-KA certified dog trainer who single-handedly replaced the role of expensive professional dog trainers.

And, get this — the course is done ONLINE, the structure is simple and gradual, and affordable. But, most importantly, it is designed for even the most stubborn dog.

This course is named BrainTraining4Dogs . I highly recommend you to consider this course because it lays down the fundamentals of taming a dog.

This helps you skyrocket your dog’s intelligence levels with any brain game in and outside the course.

If information is not enough & you want to learn more about this course, click here to read the full review .

Mental stimulation games make dogs so much better. But, better how?

Bored dogs aren’t happy dogs. So, a fun brain game keeps a dog entertained.
Untamed dogs are notorious for destructive behavior. Brain games are ideal for impulse control.
Tamed dogs who are untrained lack confidence. You can boost your dog’s confidence with brain stimulating games.
Brain games for dogs improve problem-solving skills rapidly.
Dog owners can probably make money at dog tournaments!
Mental stimulation by these games improves your dog’s understanding. So, no more excessive barking at nothing!
Sometimes, bonding with dogs can be challenging. Fun brain games speed up the process.
How many times has your dog snatched away the food from the kitchen?

So now that you have the perfect foundation, let us get into these mentally stimulating games!

The 10 Best Fun Brain Games for Dogs

For your luck, pups are born intelligent to some extent. But a dog needs a reason to use its brain. This incentive for that is treats. So, how do you play this game?

The trick is to establish a command. For example, suppose you say, “do a new trick, buddy”, and the dog will sit, turn around, or do something else. Then, you’re supposed to give a treat with all the dog’s new tricks .

If the pup repeats a trick, say “you already did that, buddy. Do something new”. Have your dog learn that it needs to improvise every time for a treat.

This game is one of the best approaches to introducing complex commands to your dog.

Tip: Use words such as shy, speak, roll, twist, etc., that your dog understands.

Benefit: Intelligence boosting is as good as any toy with puzzling.

This game is about names for toys. So, indoors is the best place to play this fun game. So, how does this game work?

This game works perfectly, even if only a few dog toys exist. The point is to familiarize names of specific toys. Make sure you have a few treats when you start. After that, assign names to each toy.

After that, let the dog familiarize the assigned names. Once you do, you can simply guide them to identify toys by toy names. Then, give them treats as they do while repeating the process. This will help them choose a favorite toy as well.

Check this simple guide here and see how it works:

Tip: Don’t name all the dogs toys at once. Instead, familiarize each and move forward.

Extended benefit: Your furry friend learns the names of the toys. It lays a foundation for many other games.

Puzzle toys for dogs keep the pup occupied while its skills boost. The theory is simple; figure out a way to take the treat out.

I recommend starting things simple before you level up to an actual puzzle toy. Think of it as an introductory course to an outward hound puzzle.

For this, all you need is a muffin tin, a few softballs, and keeping your dog’s favorite treats inside. What happens next?

Hide the treats under each tennis ball and let your dog locate them first. Then, you’ll see how the dog’s interest focuses on finding the treat. Here’s a simple guide .

After the muffin tin and tennis ball stage comes actual puzzle toys, stuffed kong, or even a treat ball are simpler versions of puzzles. However, the outward hound puzzle is the ideal example. Here’s how this dog puzzle works.

The outward hound puzzle is a best seller on Amazon . A trick ball isn’t a bad idea either.

If you want to do something bespoke and DIY, here’s the perfect guide for homemade food puzzle toys:

Tip: Ensure the treat-revealing mechanism of the puzzle toy is dog-friendly.

Extended Benefit: Have your dog enjoy and understand mechanical mechanisms.

4. ‘Which Hand’

Making a dog choose between 2 or more choices is how you sharpen their brains. It’s like a baby being able to talk, although it probably won’t be a big deal as they grow up. So how does this game work?

There are two main ways to play the game: treats or dog toys. Whichever path you choose, keeping your dog mentally stimulated should be the priority.

Begin by having your dog sit, so the focus isn’t easily lost.

If you’re doing the game by using treats, the dog must get to smell the treat beforehand. That’s because your dog responds to the scent of the treats.

Close your fist with treats inside and let them smell it. It’s as simple as that. Check this demonstration right here:

However, the approach should be different with toys. You need to familiarize the toy well enough. But don’t feel discouraged if your pup isn’t so successful with toys. Because there’s a solution for that — it’s the shell game.

Tip: Dog’s brain responds to the scent of the treats better.

Extended Benefit: Improve your dog’s smelling capacity gradually.

Playing hide and seek is the oldest trick in the book. But, transforming this great game into a brain game doesn’t take much energy.

The dog is allowed to see you hiding when you play hide and seek traditionally. However, this version focuses on the detective skills of the pup. One could say it was a derivation of the name game.

You should hide without letting your dog see and call its name out. Don’t call their name out repeatedly. Playing hide and seek will keep your pup mentally stimulated the whole time.

This research right here proves the actual value of this game.

Tip: Hide in a place that your dog is already aware of.

Extended benefit: Dog’s analytical skills in locating sources of sound increase.

I told you not to worry if the ‘which hand’ game isn’t successful with toys. This game has multiple names; cup game, three cups game, and shell game.

You need to have three identical cups for this game. First, hide a toy or a small ball under a cup and train the pup to flip the cup or at least point at it. After that, have your dog watch as you hide the toy under a cup.

Then, let it choose where the toy is. Most dogs keep up easily. After that, let your dog watch as the cups shuffle. Now, the toy is under one cup. Let your dog pick that cup; if it touches it, it’s pretty enough.

As you go, you’ll be able to complicate the shuffling and use different toys.

Check out how pros play this game with dogs right here:

Tip: Avoid shuffling the cups unnecessarily fast because your dog might lose focus.

Extended Benefit: Improved attention span of your pup.

Do you remember how you extracted coins from your piggy bank?

The same theory applies to a toy or treat-dispensing toy.

Understanding dispensation patterns of a treat-dispensing toy is so much fun for dogs. Does it tire their mind out a little bit? Sure. But hear me out — it’s a good thing because the dogs will be much more intelligent once they get accustomed to it.

Let’s look at the two types of dispensation toys:

Toy dispensation toys

Imagine a bigger toy, preferably a soft-toy type, filled with more soft toys. For example, the bigger toy could be filled with plush squirrels.

As your dogs try to pull out the toys, their brain will analyze faster methods. This is the foundation for understanding much more complex real-world things.

Food dispensation toys

While food dispensation toys provide mental stimulation, the dog loves the food — Dogs are always hungry.

A stuffed Kong is one solid example of a food-dispensing toy. In addition, Kibble Nibble, Pickle Pocket, The IQ treat ball, and even the Tug-A-Jug are unique food dispensation toys.

However, our best recommendation is a kong toy. This food dispensing toy dispenses all sorts of dog food easily. In addition, you can keep your dog busy for a longer time.

Here’s a simple guide on using the Kong toy like a pro:

Tip: Be sure to show your dog how the toy or the treat comes out; the dispensation mechanism.

Extended Benefit: Boosts your dog’s problem-solving skills in a fun way.

Tug of war is an entertaining game. After all, the mental stimulation delivered is identified to be primarily physical. That’s where you’re wrong, my friend. The game’s design upgrades your dog’s brain.

The cup game needs static attention. But, this is a game of dynamic attention — the dog is physically active. And it’s so much fun.

All you need to do is tug on the toy as your dog holds onto it. In doing so, you must ensure that your dog doesn’t end up with damaged teeth.

The trick is to train your happy dog to let go on command. That’s how to steer clear of future aggressive behavior, preserving the dog’s good health.

Tip: Choose one specific toy just for tugging, and don’t play the game whenever the dog brings a toy up to you. Check out more mistakes to avoid right here:

Extended Benefit: Increases rapid responses to sudden commands.

This is a derivation of the name game. However, there’s a big difference. You train the dog to pause as it walks toward you instead of letting them come running at you.

Have your dog sit afar, maybe in the corner of your backyard or your room. Command the dog to come at you initially. When it does, say ‘hot’ when you want it coming at you. The word ‘cold’ could be to walk away or stay put.

There’s another way to play this great game. But that method might take some practice. Check out how strategic the dog trainer is right here:

You can hide a treat or toy and command the dog to find it. For example, if the dog is getting closer, you say ‘hot’, and you say ‘cold’ if it is getting away or off the path.

Tip: Familiarize the dog’s response to the ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ commands.

Extended benefit: The dog learns how to find hidden things with verbal commands.

A 2011 research study revealed that a Border Collie could learn roughly 1000 words from toys. So, yes — dogs are more than capable of learning new words.

Learn-a-word is one game that starts simple. For example, you let the dog learn different toy names. Then, as you go, you can start bringing in things that aren’t toys. This could be anything such as a shoe, a cup, a pillow, and so on.

With the learn-a-word game, the dog stays mentally stimulated while it expands its vocabulary. The more objects they can identify, the more commands you can use.

For example, you could train the dog to drop his favorite toys in one of the cardboard boxes. The other toys can go elsewhere. But, the dog can’t do this if it is unfamiliar with words. Identifying prerequisites makes brain games for dogs most successful.

Tip: Use the most familiar toys at the start.

Extended benefit: Increased vocabulary improves intelligence.

The short answer is YES.

Entertainment is the hook for your dog to stay interested. All the best brain games for dogs are based on a fun way of playing. Unlike humans, many dogs do not understand that there were more prominent reasons for the game.

One of the honorable mentions of a game is the treasure hunt. You can make a DIY course yourself , prioritizing the dog’s mental stimulation. A few cardboard boxes might be enough.

I need to pinpoint just how beneficial these games are for pups. Especially since tendencies for destructive behavior will be sorted without them even noticing it.

Eventually, your canine companion will be much more intelligent, entertained, and tamed. This case study from 2004 is a good academic source for that.

Tell me if you now don’t know EVERYTHING you need to know about brain games for dogs now.

So, I hope this read kept you hooked and educated you. If it did, be sure to leave a comment. After all, I’d love to hear if I missed anything significant. Did I? Let me know down here in the comments.

Be sure to check out the BrainTraining4Dogs because that’s the easiest way.

Most importantly, be sure to share this with your friends and family. Who knows? Their dogs will be thankful you did.

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5 Brain-Teasing Games To Challenge Your Dog’s Intelligence

Enhance your dog’s intelligence: 5 brain-teasing games for mental stimulation.

Dogs are more than just pets; they are intelligent companions who thrive on mental stimulation. Just like humans, dogs enjoy engaging in activities that challenge their minds and keep them sharp.

Brain-teasing games for dogs are an excellent way to enrich your furry friend’s mental enrichment. Incorporating these games into your dog’s routine can help boost their problem-solving skills, increase their cognitive abilities , and prevent boredom-induced behaviours.

This article will explore five brain-teasing games designed to challenge your dog’s intelligence . These games provide entertainment and mental exercise for your canine companion.

1. Hide And Seek
2. Interactive Puzzle Toys
3. Tug-of-War
4. Scent Work
5. DIY Agility Course

The Importance Of Mental Stimulation For Dogs

● Start Slow:
● Use High-Value Rewards:
● Keep Sessions Short:
● Provide Clear Instructions:
● Be Patient And Positive:

Thank you for reading the article to the end. Your reading contribution was significant to us.

1. hide and seek.

This classic game is enjoyable for children and dogs. Hide and seek taps into your dog’s natural hunting instincts while challenging its cognitive abilities. Start by commanding your dog to sit and stay in one room while you hide somewhere in the house.

Then, call your dog’s name and encourage them to find you. As they search, their sense of smell and problem-solving skills are put to the test. Gradually increase the difficulty by hiding in more challenging spots or hiding treats around the house for them to find.

2. Interactive Puzzle Toys

Interactive puzzle toys stimulate your dog’s mind and encourage problem-solving. These toys come in various shapes and sizes, each presenting a unique challenge for your dog. Fill the toy with treats or kibble, and watch as your dog tries to figure out how to access the tasty rewards.

Keep your pup entertained for hours with an interactive dog toy – explore the wide selection on Amazon and find the perfect one to challenge their mind and body!

Some puzzle toys require your dog to push, pull, or twist certain parts to release the treats, while others involve flipping lids or sliding compartments. These toys provide mental stimulation, alleviate boredom, and prevent destructive behaviour.

3. Tug-of-War

Tug-of-war is more than just a game of strength; it’s also a game of strategy and self-control for your dog. Engaging in a friendly tug-of-war session with your pup can help improve their problem-solving skills as they learn when to exert force and when to release.

Additionally, it provides physical exercise and strengthens the bond between you and your dog. However, it’s essential to establish rules and boundaries to ensure the game remains safe and enjoyable for both of you. Use a designated tug toy and teach your dog to release on command to prevent unwanted behaviour.

4. Scent Work

Dogs have an incredibly keen sense of smell, making scent work an excellent way to challenge their cognitive abilities. Set up a scent work game by hiding treats or toys around your house or backyard and encouraging your dog to find them using their nose.

Start with accessible hiding spots and gradually increase the difficulty as your dog becomes more proficient. You can also enrol your dog in scent work classes or competitions, where they’ll learn to identify specific scents and locate hidden objects in various environments. Scent work stimulates your dog’s mind and provides a sense of accomplishment and fulfilment.

5. DIY Agility Course

Building a DIY agility course in your backyard is an excellent way to challenge your dog’s intelligence and physical abilities. Use household items such as chairs, broomsticks, and boxes to create obstacles for your dog to navigate.

Designate jumping, weaving, crawling, and balancing areas to keep the course diverse and engaging. Guide your dog through the course using treats and verbal cues, rewarding them for completing each obstacle. Not only does an agility course provide mental stimulation, but it also improves your dog’s coordination, balance, and confidence.

Mental stimulation means giving your dog activities that make them think and use their brain. Like people, dogs need more than running and playing to stay happy and healthy. Dogs can get bored without mental stimulation and sometimes feel sad or anxious. This can lead to them barking too much or chewing on things they shouldn’t.

Giving your dog things to do that challenge its brain is important for dogs of all ages. Puppies need mental stimulation to learn new things and become well-behaved adults. Older dogs benefit from mental activities to keep their minds sharp and help prevent them from becoming forgetful as they age.

Engaging in mentally stimulating activities offers numerous benefits for dogs beyond mere entertainment. These activities promote mental agility, problem-solving skills, and memory retention. Furthermore, mental stimulation can enhance a dog’s emotional well-being by reducing stress and anxiety, fostering a sense of fulfilment, and strengthening the bond between dogs and their owners through shared experiences.

Tips For Introducing Brain-Teasing Games

When we play with our dog, we strengthen our bond with him, which is good for both him and us. Mental activation games are recommended to help improve your dog's cognitive abilities.

Introducing brain-teasing games to your dog can be a fun and rewarding experience for both of you. Here are some simple tips to help you get started:

● Start Slow:

Begin with easy games that are manageable for your dog. This will help build their confidence and keep them interested.

● Use High-Value Rewards:

Use tasty treats or your dog’s favourite toys to motivate your dog to participate in the games. This will make the experience more enjoyable and encourage your dog to keep trying.

● Keep Sessions Short:

Dogs have short attention spans, so keep the game sessions brief to ensure they get energized and energized. Aim for 5-10 minute sessions and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes more accustomed to the games.

● Provide Clear Instructions :

Use simple commands and gestures to communicate what you want your dog to do. For example, use “find it” to encourage them to search for hidden treats or toys and “good job” to praise them for their efforts.

● Be Patient And Positive:

Remember to be patient with your dog as they learn new games. Offer praise and encouragement for their efforts, even if they don’t get it right first. Positive reinforcement will help build a strong bond between you and your dog and make learning more enjoyable.

Engaging your dog in brain-teasing games is essential for their mental well-being and overall happiness. These games challenge their intelligence and strengthen the bond between you and your furry companion.

Whether hide and seek, interactive puzzle toys, tug-of-war, scent work, or a DIY agility course, there are plenty of ways to keep your dog’s mind sharp and stimulated. So, next time you’re looking for ways to entertain your pup, consider trying one of these brain-teasing games.

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DIY Treat Dispensers: 7 Homemade Toys For Treat-Loving Dogs

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Stimulate Your Dog's Mind: 10 Fun Brain Games for Dogs

Just like humans, dogs benefit greatly from mental stimulation to keep their minds sharp and engaged.

Incorporating brain games into your dog’s routine not only provides entertainment but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend.

Here are 10 enjoyable brain games to challenge and entertain your dog:

1. Treasure Hunt

Hide treats or toys around the house or yard for your dog to find:

Start easy : Begin with simple hiding spots and gradually increase difficulty.
Encouragement : Use verbal cues and praise when they find the hidden treasure.

2. Puzzle Toys

Invest in interactive puzzle toys designed to dispense treats:

Problem-solving : These toys require your dog to figure out how to access the treats, keeping them engaged.
Variety : Choose different types of puzzles to vary the challenge level.

3. Shell Game

Use three cups or containers and place a treat under one while your dog watches:

Memory challenge : Mix the cups around and encourage your dog to find the treat under the correct cup.
Reward : Praise and reward your dog when they succeed.

Teach your dog to find specific objects by name:

Start with familiar objects : Begin with toys or treats with distinct scents.
Expand : Gradually introduce new objects and associate them with names for your dog to retrieve.

5. Scent Work

Engage your dog’s sense of smell with scent games:

Hide and seek : Hide treats or toys in various places and let your dog use their nose to find them.
Outdoor exploration : Allow them to sniff out scents during walks or in a controlled environment.

6. Obstacle Course

Set up a simple obstacle course in your backyard or indoors:

Physical and mental challenge : Include tunnels, cones, and jumps to navigate.
Guide and reward : Guide your dog through the course with treats and praise.

7. Command Training Variations

Add complexity to basic commands:

Sequence : String together commands like sit, stay, and come.
New tricks : Teach your dog new tricks like high five or roll over to keep their mind active.

8. Tug-of-War

Play a controlled game of tug-of-war with a rope or tug toy:

Rules : Establish rules to ensure it’s a fun and safe activity.
Release command : Teach your dog to release the toy on command for added mental engagement.

9. Frozen Treats

Create frozen treats with their favourite ingredients:

DIY challenge : Use ice cube trays to freeze treats like yogurt or peanut butter.
Puzzle feeders : Offer frozen treats in puzzle toys for a refreshing challenge.

10. Name That Toy

Teach your dog to identify toys by name:

Learning process : Start with one toy and consistently use its name during playtime.
Expansion : Introduce new toys gradually and associate each with a specific name.

Introducing brain games into your dog’s routine not only enriches their life but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. These activities provide mental stimulation, prevent boredom, and tap into their natural instincts and abilities.

Whether indoors or outdoors, incorporating these fun brain games will keep your dog happy, engaged, and mentally sharp.

Enjoy exploring these activities with your furry companion and watch as they thrive with every challenge!

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A dog playing with a selection of brain-stimulating toys and activities

5 Fun Brain Games to Stimulate Your Dog’s Mind

Dogs are not only our faithful companions, but they are also incredibly intelligent creatures. Just like humans, dogs need mental stimulation to keep their minds sharp and active. This is where brain games come into play. They can provide your furry friend with the mental exercise they need to stay happy and healthy.

Why Mental Stimulation is Important for Dogs

Mental stimulation is just as important for dogs as physical exercise. Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and without mental stimulation, they can become bored and even develop behavioral issues. Mental stimulation helps keep their minds engaged and prevents boredom-related behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, or digging. Additionally, mental exercise can tire out a dog just as much as physical exercise, making it a great way to help calm down a hyperactive pup.

There are many ways to provide mental stimulation for dogs. One effective method is through interactive toys and puzzles. These toys require dogs to use their problem-solving skills to access treats or toys hidden inside. Another way to stimulate a dog’s mind is through training and obedience exercises. Teaching a dog new commands and tricks not only provides mental stimulation but also strengthens the bond between the dog and their owner. Additionally, engaging in scent work activities, such as hiding treats or toys for the dog to find, can provide mental stimulation and tap into their natural hunting instincts. Overall, incorporating mental stimulation into a dog’s daily routine is essential for their overall well-being and can lead to a happier and more balanced pet.

How Brain Games Can Help Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy

Brain games are specifically designed to challenge a dog’s cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills. These games provide your dog with an opportunity to use their brain and think creatively, which can be incredibly rewarding for them. By engaging in brain games, dogs can release mental energy and improve their overall well-being. Not only does it keep them physically and mentally active, but it also prevents boredom and promotes a healthy bond between you and your furry friend.

The Benefits of Engaging Your Dog’s Mind through Play

Engaging your dog’s mind through play has numerous benefits. Firstly, it strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion. When you actively participate in brain games with your dog, you create positive associations and build trust. Secondly, playing brain games can help with behavioral issues. By redirecting your dog’s energy into a mentally stimulating activity, you can prevent them from engaging in destructive or undesirable behaviors. Finally, brain games can provide mental enrichment, which can alleviate stress and anxiety in dogs.

Understanding the Canine Mind: How Dogs Think and Learn

To effectively engage your dog’s mind through brain games, it’s crucial to understand how dogs think and learn. Dogs learn through positive reinforcement, meaning they associate behaviors with rewards. They also have different learning styles. Some dogs are more visually oriented, while others rely heavily on their sense of smell or touch. By understanding your dog’s learning style, you can tailor brain games that cater to their individual needs and preferences.

Choosing the Right Brain Games for Your Dog’s Breed and Personality

When selecting brain games for your dog, it’s important to consider their breed and personality. Different breeds have different natural tendencies and instincts. For example, herding breeds might enjoy puzzle games that require them to strategize and problem-solve, while scent hounds may thrive during sniffing games that tap into their excellent sense of smell. Additionally, you should also consider your dog’s personality traits. Some dogs may have a higher energy level and may require more physically demanding brain games, while others may prefer calm and mentally stimulating activities.

DIY Brain Games: Simple and Affordable Ways to Challenge Your Dog

Brain games don’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, there are plenty of DIY brain games that you can create using items you already have at home. For example, you can create a treat-dispensing toy by placing treats inside a muffin tin and covering them with tennis balls. Your dog will have to use their nose and problem-solving skills to find the hidden treats. You can also play the shell game with cups and treats, asking your dog to find the cup with the treat underneath. The possibilities for DIY brain games are endless!

Interactive Toys: A Fun and Effective Way to Stimulate Your Dog’s Mind

Interactive toys are another fantastic way to stimulate your dog’s mind. Many interactive toys are designed to challenge your dog’s problem-solving abilities and keep them entertained for hours. For example, puzzle toys that require your dog to maneuver pieces to obtain a treat can provide mental stimulation while satisfying their natural instincts. Look for interactive toys that are durable, safe, and suitable for your dog’s size and breed.

Puzzle Games: Keeping Your Dog’s Brain Sharp and Active

Puzzle games are a popular choice for brain games. These games typically require your dog to solve a puzzle or manipulate objects to find hidden treats or rewards. There are various types of puzzle games available, ranging from simple ones that require your dog to lift flaps or slide pieces to more complex ones that involve multiple steps to reach the reward. Puzzle games can keep your dog’s brain sharp and active while providing them with a fun and engaging challenge.

Teaching Tricks: Mental Exercises That Double as Brain Games for Dogs

Teaching your dog new tricks is an excellent way to provide mental stimulation. Training sessions not only strengthen the bond between you and your dog but also require them to think and problem-solve. Start with basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “lie down,” and gradually progress to more advanced tricks like “roll over” or “play dead.” Remember to use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise to motivate your dog and make the learning process enjoyable for them.

Sniffing Games: Tapping into Your Dog’s Natural Instincts for Mental Stimulation

Sniffing games are a fantastic way to tap into your dog’s natural instincts and provide them with mental stimulation. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, and engaging in activities that allow them to use it can be incredibly rewarding. You can create a scent trail using treats or toys and ask your dog to follow it. Another fun game is hiding treats around the house or yard and letting your dog use their nose to find them. Sniffing games not only exercise their mind but also allow them to satisfy their natural instincts.

Hide-and-Seek: A Classic Game That Enhances Cognitive Skills in Dogs

Hide-and-seek is not only a fun game for young children but also an excellent brain game for dogs. This classic game can enhance your dog’s cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities. Start by having your dog sit and stay while you hide in another room or behind furniture. Then, call out your dog’s name and wait for them to come find you. You can gradually make the game more challenging by hiding in different places or using distractions. Hide-and-seek is a great way to provide mental stimulation while having fun with your furry friend.

Agility Training: An Exciting Way to Boost Mental and Physical Fitness in Dogs

Agility training is both a mental and physical exercise for dogs. This activity involves navigating through an obstacle course which typically includes hurdles, tunnels, weave poles, and ramps. Not only does agility training challenge your dog’s problem-solving skills as they figure out the best way to navigate the course, but it also provides them with physical exercise. Agility training is a great option for high-energy dogs that require both mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

The Role of Treat Rewards in Brain Games for Dogs

Treat rewards play a crucial role in brain games for dogs. Dogs are motivated by rewards, and treats can be a powerful motivator during brain games and training sessions. Treat rewards help reinforce positive behaviors and make the experience enjoyable for your dog. Make sure to use small and tasty treats that your dog loves. However, it’s essential to balance treat rewards with a healthy diet and not rely solely on treats as a form of motivation, as this can lead to overfeeding and weight gain.

Maintaining Engagement: Tips for Keeping Your Dog Interested in Brain Games

Keeping your dog engaged in brain games is essential to ensure they receive maximum mental stimulation. Here are some tips to maintain their interest:

Start with easy games and gradually increase the difficulty level to prevent frustration.
Use a variety of brain games to keep things exciting and prevent boredom.
Rotate the toys and games to keep them fresh and interesting for your dog.
Make the games interactive by actively participating and providing encouragement.
Keep the sessions short and end them on a positive note to maintain enthusiasm for the next session.

Overcoming Challenges: Troubleshooting Common Issues with Brain Games for Dogs

While brain games can be a wonderful tool for mental stimulation, you may encounter some challenges along the way. Here are a few common issues and solutions:

Difficulty level: If your dog is finding a game too challenging, simplify it or break it down into smaller steps.
Loss of interest: If your dog seems disinterested or bored, try switching to a different game or offering a new toy.
Distractions: Find a quiet and calm environment to play brain games with your dog, minimizing distractions that may hinder their focus.
Lack of motivation: If your dog is not motivated by treats, try using toys or playtime as rewards instead.

Age-Appropriate Brain Games: Catering to the Cognitive Needs of Puppies, Adults, and Senior Dogs

It’s important to consider your dog’s age when selecting brain games. Puppies have shorter attention spans and may need simpler games that focus on basic training and socialization. Adult dogs can handle more complex brain games that challenge their problem-solving skills. Senior dogs may require more gentle and low-impact games that focus on maintaining cognitive function. Adjust the difficulty level and types of games based on your dog’s age and individual needs.

Incorporating Brain Games into Daily Routine: Making Mental Stimulation a Priority

Mental stimulation should be a regular part of your dog’s daily routine. Incorporating brain games into their schedule can help make mental stimulation a priority. Dedicate specific times during the day for brain games and stick to a consistent schedule. Make it a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. By making mental stimulation a priority, you are ensuring that your furry friend has a well-rounded and fulfilling life.

Tracking Games: Harnessing a Dog’s Sense of Smell for Mental Exercise

Tracking games harness a dog’s incredible sense of smell for mental exercise. These games involve laying a scent trail or hiding objects with specific scents for your dog to find. Tracking games not only provide mental stimulation but also tap into your dog’s natural instincts. They can be especially beneficial for scent hounds and dogs with exceptional olfactory abilities. Whether it’s tracking treats or searching for hidden toys, tracking games can engage your dog’s mind while providing a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

The Science Behind Canine Intelligence and Problem-Solving Abilities

Canine intelligence and problem-solving abilities have been a topic of interest for scientists for many years. Research has shown that dogs have varying degrees of problem-solving skills, with individual differences based on genetics, breed characteristics, and environmental factors. Dogs possess cognitive abilities such as memory, reasoning, and the ability to understand human gestures and vocal cues. The science behind canine intelligence is fascinating and continues to evolve as researchers learn more about our four-legged friends.

In conclusion, brain games are an excellent way to stimulate your dog’s mind, promote mental well-being, and strengthen the bond between you and your furry companion. From interactive toys to DIY games, there are plenty of options to choose from to challenge your dog’s cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills. Remember to consider your dog’s breed, personality, and age when selecting brain games and make sure to maintain their interest through varied and interactive activities. By incorporating brain games into your dog’s daily routine, you are providing them with the mental exercise they need to lead a happy and fulfilling life.

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Brain games for dogs; 5 fun ways to beat boredom

We love brain games for dogs at Practical Paw, so we thought we’d share our favorites. Not only do brain games keep your dog’s mind active, but they also tire them out much more effectively than physical exercise.

What’s more, brain games are suitable for all ages of dog. Whether you’ve just taken on a puppy or your dog is well into their senior years, brain games provide much-needed mental stimulation.

Table of Contents

What are Brain Games for dogs?

If you’re new to brain games, you may be wondering what they are. Simply put, they are any activity that involves your dog using their brain to work out what to do.

Many of the activities we do with our dogs satisfy their physical needs, walking, playing fetch, off-leash exercise, etc. But apart from training, which is a brain game in itself, there is little focus on ways to stimulate our dog’s minds.

The benefits of playing brain games go beyond having a tired dog at the end of the day; mental stimulation can help with behavior problemsas well as;

Relieve boredom
Tire your dog
Increase your dog’s confidence
Strengthen the bond between you and your dog
Help older dogs remain active

Invest a few minutes a day engaging your dog in a brain game and reap the rewards of a contented dog.

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Introducing Brain Games for the First Time

It’s essential that you teach your dog how to play each puzzle and set your dog up for success. Learning any new skill is difficult and can be both confusing and frustrating.

Go at your dog’s pace, not at your own. Having unrealistic expectations of what your dog is capable of or expecting too much too soon will have a negative impact on both of you. Dogs learn fast when they get rewarded, so when teaching new skills always use high-value treats when you play with your dog.

Which Games to Play

While the brain games we’ve chosen are suitable for all dogs, you may find that your dog has a favourite. Motivation differs from dog to dog and breed to breed, so what excites a Jack Russel may very different from what excites a Labrador.

Start with an activity that you think your dog will enjoy most. The aim, to begin with, is to make it as easy as possible so that your dog succeeds. Once your dog masters the basics you can make the games incrementally more difficult to keep their brains challenged.

Toys or Treats?

While many dogs are motivated by food, especially special treats like cheese or hot dog pieces, others prefer a toy. So, if your dog isn’t a foodie, don’t despair. Although most of the games we’ve chosen work with treats many of them can be adapted for toys too.

In fact, rather than toys or treats why not play games for your dog with toys and treats to make it even more fun!

How to Play

We’ve assumed that each game is new to both you and your dog. So, we’re taking you through the basics while giving you a ‘level up’ option for more experienced players. Most of the games don’t require much in the way of props, but we’ve included what you’ll need to make the game a success.

All of these games bar one require you to interact and teach your dog how to complete the puzzle. Whether that’s direct interaction or via verbal encouragement but none of these games is time-consuming or need a lot of effort on your part.

In fact, all of the games we’ve included can be played within a few minutes and are perfect for sprinkling through the day to mentally engage your dog and give your dog a break from boredom.

So, fill your pockets with some tasty morsels and plenty of toys and let the games begin!

Props ; Tasty treats or a favourite toy

This brain game for dogs is one of our favourites. It’s a great way to engage one of your dog’s most powerful natural instincts – their sense of smell, and it can be as simple or as complicated as you want. It can be played with treats or a toy and extended to an outside game once your dog has mastered the basics.

Choose a tasty treat or favourite toy and make sure that your dog sees that you are holding it. If your dog knows ‘wait’ or ‘stay’ that’s perfect, if not you may need a helper to hold your dog while you move away.

The aim is to make this first game as easy as possible. While your dog is watching, place a piece of food or toy a few feet away from them but in plain sight. Release your dog and say ‘find it’ as they move towards the treat. Praise your dog and repeat. Don’t advance the game until your dog reliably ‘finds it’.

Once your dog has the hang of the game you can place your dog in another room and put a treat somewhere less visible but still easy to find before releasing them to hunt for it.

We love playing this game as there are so many ways to level up. Here are some ideas;

Hide the treat or toy behind or under cushions
Place the treat in something – my favourite hiding place is in a slipper!
Vary the height of the hiding place so that your dog has to think about vertical as well as horizontal searches
Place more than one treat at a time to extend the search period
Extend the search area and place treats in different rooms, so it’s more like a scavenger hunt
Expand into the garden or yard. This is an excellent challenge for dogs that are masters of ‘ find it ’ as there are lots of competing smells

Roll the Towel

Props; A towel and treats or toys

Roll the Towel is such a simple game that it’s easy to dismiss it. But your dog has to learn the right way to get the treats. We like this game as it’s suitable for all dogs even those with limited mobility.

The games aim is to get your dog to use their nose to unroll the towel and get a series of treats hidden inside. Shaking, pawing the towel or any behavior other than nose work is against the rules!

Ask your dog to wait and put the towel on the floor in front of them placing a treat or toy near the edge. Release your dog and let them get the treat.

On the next turn place, the treat a little further in and flip the edge of the towel over it so that it’s out of sight. Release your dog, if they use their nose to uncover the treat praise them and repeat.

Some dogs may try to pick the towel up or use their paws to uncover the treat, but you’re training your dog to only use their nose. You can reinforce the game by giving your dog extra treats anytime they touch the towel with their nose. As your dog progresses, you can add more treats and more rolls of the towel. So eventually you end up with a line of treats in the centre of the towel for the entire length before rolling it up.

Too easy for your dog? Here are a couple of ways to up the challenge and keep your dog engag;

Roll the towel tighter
Once the towelis rolled add a twist
Double layer- sandwich treats in between two towelsbefore rolling up
Only put treats at the beginning of the roll so that they end up being in the very centre once the towel is rolled up

Find the Lady or Shell Game

Props; Three paper cups, treats or toy

The aim of this game is for your dog to use their problem-solving skills. A tasty treat or toy is hiding under one of three cups, and it’s your dog’s job to work out which one it is.

This game is simple to set up but challenges your dog to pay attention to what you’re doing. It’s a great way of getting hyperactive dogs to learn more focus if you build the difficulty level up slowly.

If your dog is brand new to the game, use only one cup to start. Let your dog see the treat and make sure they watch as you cover it.

As soon as your dog shows interest in the cup, praise them and uncover the reward. As your dog gets the idea, you can ‘hide’ the treat under one cup without your dog first seeing it. As your dog progresses, add the other cups.

Smart dogs catch on quickly so if you want your pet to level up and make it more challenging, here are some ideas;

Add more cups
Ask for a particular behavior for your dog to show you to indicate the right pot, for example, placing a paw on top of the cup
Use boxes with lids so that the scent of the treat is harder to detect

Spin the Bottle

Props; A clean plastic bottle and sturdy string

If you want to stand back and watch your dog have some fun, then this is the game for you. You need to make two holes opposite each other in the top third of the plastic bottle so that you can thread the string through them.

You can use chairs, door handles or any other stable platform to tie the ends of the string to. Just make sure that the bottle ends up suspended at a comfortable height to keep your dog from over stretching

Put a few pieces of dog food in the bottle and encourage your dog to spin it to get the kibble out.

The closer the holes are to the centre of the bottle the easier it is for your dog to tip the bottle over. Don’t be afraid to show your dog how to play the game by spinning the bottle over so your dog gets some ‘free’ treats.

Letting your dog watch how a puzzle works is especially useful for nervous dogs who are sometimes reluctant to engage in new activities. Once your dog is comfortable playing spin the bottle, you can challenge them by making the game more difficult.

There are several ways of making this game more challenging. In fact, we use the second option all the time. It does mean a bit of tidying up after but I use it as an excuse to engage in a ‘find it’ game as well.

Place the holes nearer the top of the bottle
Remove the string and let your dog roll the bottle around the floor to get the kibble out
Use larger size kibble – it still needs to be small enough to come out of the neck of the bottle, but larger kibble is heavier and gets stuck on some swings, so it adds a gambling element to the game

Treasure Chest

Props; Empty cardboard boxes, toilet roll holders, cartons, paper, one large box that will fit everything else

The treasure hunt is an excellent way of recycling all your cardboard and paper. The idea is to hide kibble in as many different boxes or containers as possible and then put them all into a larger box and let your dog hunt for their food.

The first time you do this for your dog, make it easy for them. Either place a treat in loosely scrunched up paper or put it in a box and leave the lid open so they can quickly get to the treat.

As your dog becomes used to the game, you can add more boxes and layers of paper and place them in a larger box making the game more challenging and fun.

The more boxes and layers of paper you use the more difficult it is for your dog to find them. But if you need more ideas for your dog to level up here are a few to think about;

The harder you scrunch the paper around the treat the higher the challenge for your dog
Closing the lids of the boxes will make the game harder
More layers equal more of a challenge

Brain Games to Play with your dog

Keeping your dog happy and healthy has never been easier. All these games take very little time to prepare but offer your dog a good mental workout.

Mental stimulation for our dogs is just as important as physical exercise. As all of these games are so quick and easy to play, squeezing them into even the busiest days is simple. There are so many ways to enrich your dog’s day with food or toy puzzles, how did we do? Did we leave out any of your favourite brain games for dogs?

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7 fun brain games for dogs mental stimulation and happiness

For the second week of April, we are exploring the many benefits of playtime for dogs. Just like us, dogs should be engaging in activities that challenge them mentally as well as physically, and brain games for dogs are a great way to do this!

We know that getting enough physical exercise is important for a dog’s health, but less emphasis is put on the importance of exercising a dog’s mind. Dogs are curious and clever , capable of far more than we often give them credit for.

Because of this, dog owners should take time to stimulate their dogs with games that encourage brain skills like concentration, memory and problem solving.

By engaging in brain games with dogs, you help to improve their mood, behaviour and sleep routine.

Mental stimulation can work to tire your dog out and ensure a good night’s sleep at the end of the day! Just think about how wiped you can feel after a long week at work, or how children get tired after a day of learning new skills at school - it’s just the same for our furry friends!

Why do dogs need mental stimulation?

What are good mental games for dogs?

7 ways to provide mental stimulation for dogs:.

Hide and Seek
Scatter Feeding
Food Puzzles
Interactive Dog Toys
Put Toys Away after Playtime
Obstacle Courses
Is chewing mentally stimulating for dogs?

How much mental stimulation does a dog need?

Why do dogs need mental stimulation 🧠.

A large amount of canine research into the dog’s brain has been conducted across the world. Studies have shown that dogs are far more intuitive than you may think - not only are they able to read human faces and expressions, they also have the potential to develop counting skills and understand concepts like object permanence.

When dogs get bored, they try to create their own fun by engaging in behaviours deemed unacceptable by dog owners. While your dog is only trying to keep itself entertained, this can translate to humans as them exhibiting bad, even destructive behaviour. For these reasons, it’s important to keep your dog’s brain active and engaged throughout the day.

Providing your dog with mental stimulation can be as easy as giving them plenty of opportunities to sniff and explore while out on walks. However, if you want to take this one step further, you can play lots of different brain games for dogs.

If you’re wondering how to mentally stimulate a dog, you’re in luck - the options are endless! Many of these brain games for dogs can be easily incorporated into your pup’s daily routine, helping to increase their attention span and positively influence good behaviour.

1. Hide and Seek

One great way to boost your dog’s problem solving skills is to play brain games like Hide and Seek. With this activity, you also get the opportunity to reinforce dog commands like ‘wait’ and ‘come’ , as well as introduce new command words like ‘find’ .

There are lots of different variations of this game that you can try - testing your dog to seek out treats, toys or even you!

2. Dog Tricks

Teaching your dog a new trick requires a lot of concentration on their part, which is why tricks make for a challenging brain workout! By teaching new tricks with positive, rewards-based training, you can help to boost your dog's confidence and happiness. Just remember to provide lots of praise and enthusiasm!

We’ve all heard of tricks like ‘paw’ and ‘shake hands’ , but there are hundreds of other tricks out there that you can add to your dog’s skillset. Fun tricks that make for great mental games include:

Close the door

3. Scatter Feeding

Scatter feeding is an activity that encourages a dog’s natural foraging instincts by hiding treats or food on the floor around the house or garden. This type of enrichment activity is easy to introduce, all you need to do is let your dog search for and sniff out its food over a specific area.

Dogs boast an incredible sense of smell, and nose work games like scatter feeding encourage autonomy while providing an exciting alternative to the usual feeding routine of eating from a bowl.

4. Food Puzzles

While we're on the topic of feeding, food puzzles also make for an extremely popular type of dog brain game, as they too challenge your dog to work for food. There are lots of dog food puzzles available to buy online, or you can do it yourself and make a food puzzle at home!

These puzzles benefit both memory and problem solving skills, while also decreasing stress and improving a dog's digestion. With a puzzle game, the speed at which a dog eats is slower, as they have to successfully work out how to manoeuvre the puzzle to fully access the food beneath each hole.

5. Interactive Dog Toys

There are many ways that dog toys can be used to train your dog's mind. Toys come in all shapes and sizes, with different features to make playtime fun and interesting.

Squeaky dog toys help to exercise a dog’s brain by capturing their attention and reinforcing their desire to chew and play. Equally, dog toys that roll, or bounce in different directions help to provide a challenge by perplexing a dog's brain.

6. Put Toys Away after Playtime

For dogs that have already learnt the 'drop it' or 'give it' command, you can enhance this skill further by teaching your dog to drop its toys back into the toy box, basket or container after playtime has finished.

This brain game caters to a dog's natural aptitude to fetch and retrieve. Not only is it a great way to start winding down and signify to your dog that playtime is over, it can also help to provide independence and give you one less thing to have to worry about cleaning up!

7. Obstacle Courses

There are many benefits of creating obstacle course games for your dog to engage in. Not only do they help to train the mind, they also improve agility and physical fitness.

You can utilise household objects like chairs, bed sheets, mops or brooms to make a fun obstacle course in the house or garden, or you can sign your dog up for agility training classes in the local area. Either way - your dog is bound to love burning off excess energy passing through a variety of obstacles.

Is chewing mental stimulation for dogs?

Absolutely! Chewing requires concentration and focus, which is why dog toys provide such a great outlet for mental stimulation. A durable dog toy can be used for both independent play, and to encourage social play with other dogs.

Plus - if you choose an unusually shaped chew toy, your dog will use extra brainpower as it focuses on gnawing the different angles and edges.

As a minimum, you should aim to incorporate 30 minutes of play for your dog per day, split between 2 x 15 minute sessions. The specific amount of mental stimulation a dog needs varies, so it’s important to observe your dog and adjust the amount of play to individual needs.

Generally speaking, larger high-energy breeds require more mental stimulation than smaller ones.

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10 Brain Games for Dogs to Keep Your Dog Mentally Stimulated

Let’s face it, the phrase “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” may be catchy, but it’s far from the truth. Dogs, young or old, have an innate curiosity and intelligence that can be harnessed through brain games for dogs . Just like humans, dogs need mental stimulation to keep them engaged, happy, and healthy.

So, are you ready to explore the realm of canine intelligence and crack the code on your fur buddy’s intellectual prowess?

Table of Contents

What are Brain Games For Dogs?

Have you ever looked into your dog’s eyes and wondered what’s going on in their furry little head? Do they dream? Can they solve problems? The answer to these questions is a resounding yes. Dogs, much like their human counterparts, have a mental life that’s rich, complex, and begging to be explored. That’s where brain games for dogs come in.

Brain games for dogs are engaging activities designed to challenge and stimulate your dog’s cognitive functions. Think of them as a mental gym where your dog can flex their “brain muscles”. These games are not just about running and fetching; they’re about problem-solving, memory, and learning.

The Benefits of Brain Games for Dogs

Why bother with brain games? Surely a good run in the park is enough? While physical exercise is essential for a dog’s wellbeing, mental stimulation is equally important. Here’s why:

Keeps them Sharp : Brain games help to keep your dog’s mind sharp and alert. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from cognitive decline as they age. Regular mental stimulation can help to slow this process.
Reduces Problem Behaviors : Dogs often misbehave when they’re bored. Brain games can help to alleviate this boredom and reduce problem behaviors such as excessive barking or chewing.
Builds a Stronger Bond : Playing brain games with your dog is a wonderful bonding experience. It’s a chance for you to engage with your dog on a deeper level and understand them better.
Improves Problem-solving Skills : Many brain games are based on puzzles. Solving these puzzles can improve your dog’s problem-solving abilities.
Boosts Confidence : For more timid dogs, successfully solving a puzzle or winning a game can be a big confidence booster.
Provides Mental Stimulation : Dogs, especially working breeds, need mental stimulation just as much as physical exercise. Without it, they can become anxious or depressed.
Alleviates Anxiety : Brain games can help to distract anxious dogs and give them something else to focus on, which can help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety.

Brain games for dogs are more than just fun – they’re an essential part of a dog’s wellbeing. They challenge your dog, keep them entertained, and most importantly, they can make your dog happier and healthier. So, without further ado, let’s dig into the 12 brain games for dogs .

1. The Classic Shell Game

Ever witnessed the human version of the shell game? Well, dogs can play too! And don’t be fooled, our canine companions are no pushovers.

Step One : Grab three identical cups and a dog-friendly treat.
Step Two : Show your dog the treat, then hide it under one of the cups while they’re watching.
Step Three : Shuffle the cups around and encourage your dog to find the treat.

Easy as pie, right? Just remember, the trick to making this game engaging is to gradually increase the complexity. Start by shuffling the cups slowly, then pick up the pace as your dog becomes more adept.

2. The Treasure Hunt

“X marks the spot!” Well, not quite – this time, the treasure is a delicious treat or a favorite toy, and the map is your dog’s nose.

To set up a treasure hunt:

Choose a treat or toy that your dog loves.
Hide it in an easy-to-find location.
Gradually increase the difficulty by hiding the “treasure” in more challenging locations.

As the saying goes, “The nose knows.” And trust me, your dog’s nose knows a lot more than you might think!

3. The Muffin Tin Puzzle

This game is like the shell game on steroids – it’s a fantastic way to challenge your dog’s problem-solving skills.

Place treats in some of the muffin tin’s holes.
Cover all the holes with tennis balls.
Watch as your dog figures out how to remove the balls and get the treats.

4. The Kong Toy

Let’s face it – the Kong toy is the Swiss Army Knife of dog toys. Fill it with peanut butter or dog-friendly treats, and you’ve got a challenge that will keep your dog entertained for hours.

5. The Tug of War – But with a Twist!

Tug of War is a classic dog game, but have you ever played it with rules? Try pausing the game occasionally and training your dog to “leave it” before resuming. This game is a test of both physical and mental endurance.

6. The Name Game

Dogs can learn more than just “sit” and “stay”. They can also learn the names of different toys! Start by playing with one specific toy and repeatedly telling your dog its name. Over time, see if they can pick it out from a group of toys when you call its name.

7. The Puzzle Box

Commercially available dog puzzle toys can be a great investment. They usually involve hiding treats in compartments that the dog has to open.

8. The New Trick Challenge

The phrase “Old dogs can’t learn new tricks” is just a myth. Push your dog’s boundaries by teaching them new tricks. Roll over, play dead, or even fetch the newspaper – the possibilities are endless!

9. The Obstacle Course

Set up an obstacle course using cushions, boxes, and other household items. This game tests not only physical but also mental agility as your dog has to remember the layout of the course.

10. The DIY Dog Toy

Last but not least, why not make your own dog toy? There are plenty of online tutorials, and the process of making the toy can be as fun as playing with it!

11. Hide and Seek

Remember those good old days when you played hide and seek with your friends? Well, your dog can join in on the fun too! This game is a fantastic way to work on your dog’s recall skills and keep them mentally stimulated.

Step One : Ask your dog to sit and stay in a room.
Step Two : Find a hiding spot somewhere else in the house. Make sure it’s a place where your dog can find you.
Step Three : Call your dog and wait for them to find you.

Remember to reward your dog when they find you. This will encourage them to engage in the game more enthusiastically.

12. The Frozen Treat Game

The Frozen Treat Game is not just a brain game, but it’s also perfect for hot summer days. All you need is a silicone mold (or ice cube tray), some dog-friendly treats, and a bit of chicken or beef broth. Here’s how to do it:

Place the treats in the silicone mold.
Fill the mold with chicken or beef broth.

Once it’s frozen, pop the treats out of the mold and give them to your dog. They’ll have to figure out how to get to the delicious treat inside the ice, which is a mental challenge, and they’ll also get a refreshing treat!

Key Takeaways

Dog brain games are more than just a fun diversion – they’re a critical part of your dog’s mental and physical health. Not only do these games challenge your dog’s mind, but they also strengthen your bond with your pet. So, what are you waiting for? Isn’t it time you played a game with your best friend?

Dogs, just like humans, need mental stimulation.
Brain games help alleviate issues such as separation anxiety and destructive behavior.
Regular brain games can improve your dog’s problem-solving skills and memory.
Always supervise your dog when they’re playing with toys, especially new ones or homemade ones.

So, who said a dog’s life has to be boring? With these brain games, your dog’s days will be filled with fun, challenge, and lots of love. Because, at the end of the day, isn’t that what being a pet parent is all about?

Dennis and Becca, have always shared a passion for man’s best friend. As dog enthusiasts, they put together articles that inform, engage, and captivate fellow dog lovers.

Keep ‘Em Sharp with Brain Games for Dogs

All dog owners know just how intelligent their best friends are, and that’s why it’s important to make sure to stimulate your dog’s mind so that he will not only get lots of healthy physical exercise but some mental exercise too! One of the best ways to stimulate your pooch’s mind is to use fun brain games for dogs.

Your best friend will look forward to playtime when he gets to exercise his body and his mind!

Whether it’s puzzle games, treat-dispensing games, or interactive dog toys , your buddy will get lots of enrichment out of playing his favorite games with you. It’s important too because bored dogs can be destructive and even require dog training to correct for problems that crop up.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best doggy brain games to help you keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Let’s begin with some basic information about why it’s helpful to mentally stimulate your dog.

Why are Brain Games Important for Your Dog?

For any intelligent creature, mental stimulation is a must to keep them happy and healthy. Without it, your dog can become bored and look for things to do that you might not like, such as eating your couch. You really don’t want your dog to become a furniture chewer just because he’s bored.

You do want to encourage your dog to use his brain as much as possible. Luckily, there are many types of brain games and dog puzzle toys that will provide your pooch with lots of mental stimulation. Many don’t even require any specialized equipment.

That means it will be easy to keep your furry friend occupied with fun games you both can enjoy and that will provide him with all the mental stimulation he needs to feel like he’s got something meaningful to do too!

Will Brain Games Tire Your Furry Friend Out?

Well, just like school might tire you out, mental stimulation can be tiring for your pooch. That can be good for getting him to quiet down when you’re ready for a nap, but it’s also good for his mental and emotional health.

Your dog is capable of learning his entire life, and by using brain training games that require problem-solving, you can help create positive emotions for your best friend and slow any mental deterioration.

What’s more, as your best furry friend gets older, it’s a great way to challenge him without having to overly exert him physically. It’s even possible there’s an app for that ! Researchers in Vienna have proposed a fun computer game so you can challenge your pup with mental stimulation in lieu of physically demanding training.

You’ll be doing your best friend a huge favor since it will help to keep him mentally fit into his old age. Even dogs who are not the brightest bulb on the tree can use their brain to solve mental exercises using interactive games that will help keep them intellectually fit. You just have to choose an interactive game with the appropriate level of difficulty.

Let’s take a look at some of the best brain games for dogs with different levels of difficulty!

1. Dog Worker Dog Puzzle by Nina Ottosson

Dog Worker Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy, Green

$29.99 $26.99.

The Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Dog Worker puzzle dog toy is a challenging level 3 puzzle game that will keep your dog busy for hours as they use their instincts to hunt for hidden treats. This advanced interactive dog puzzle game has 3 steps that your dog will need to learn in order to get to the tasty rewards: swivel the flippers, scoot the blocks, and spin the center wheel. Hidden compartments are…

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This Nina Ottoson by Outward Hound Dog Worker treat puzzle will keep your furry friend entertained for hours. It’s a challenging puzzle game that stimulates your dog’s instincts by sending him on a treasure hunt for dog treats.

This dog puzzle game requires your dog to take three steps to get that tasty treat, so he really has to be a dog toy expert to navigate the three levels with swiveling flippers, scooting blocks, a spinning center wheel as well as a snuffle mat to find their buried booty!

You can also help your best buddy so you get some playtime together. If your dog isn’t quite ready for this advanced game, Nina Ottosson has some easier games for newbies or puppies.

2. Find the Treat

This one isn’t quite as advanced as the dog worker dog puzzle. It’s something you can easily play with your puppy, and you don’t need any special equipment or training.

The way this one goes is that you get your dog’s best dog treats and hide them around the room. Then you give him the instruction to “find the treats.” Most dogs will naturally sniff out food, but if he’s having trouble getting started, you can help by giving him some hints.

It also helps if you start out by hiding his favorite treat in an easy place for him to find. Once he’s got the hang of it, you can start hiding the treats in more difficult places. Your dog will love spending time with you and getting rewards too.

3. Learn a new trick

I know you’re thinking this isn’t a game at all. After all, it’s something most dog owners do with their furry friends. That’s true, but if you’re teaching your puppy a new trick, you want to do it in a fun way that is also a good brain training technique.

Here are a couple of new tricks that are more challenging than simply ‘sit’ or ‘shake:’

‘Bow’ — you want your dog to know this one so that he can take a bow after impressing all your friends with his many tricks
‘Spin’ or ‘twist’ — with this trick, you teach your pooch to turn around in a circle, both clockwise and counterclockwise. It’s extra impressive if he knows to turn around in both directions
‘Shy Dog’ — the goal here is to get your furry friend to paw his nose as if he’s feeling shy
‘Speak’ — this is a classic, but teaching your dog to bark is the first step for teaching him not to bark too

These are just a couple of ideas of new tricks that are a little different from the common ones most dog owners will teach. Whatever you teach your pooch, remember to start with short sessions so you won’t overdo it.

4. The Cup Game

This is a kind of doggy shell game that requires at least two cups and some treats to get started. It’s easy though — you just put some dry dog food under one of the cups and then ask your dog, “Which cup?”

Because most dogs can easily sniff out food, he’ll likely find it quickly, and when he does, give him a treat as a reward. After your puppy gets the idea, you can increase the level of difficulty by adding more cups and moving them around.

This is a good game for teaching your dog impulse control and helping to improve his focus. You can bet that he’ll be keeping an eye on every move you make when you’re mixing up those cups.

5. Stuffed Snoop

Orbee-Tuff Snoop Interactive Treat Dispensing Dog Toy, Large

Planet Dog’s multiple award-winning Orbee-Tuff Snoop challenges the brain in fun and stimulating ways! This interactive dog puzzle toy is great for bored pups who need a rewarding brain teaser or to encourage slower eating habits in fast eaters. The Snoop is translucent and squishy with a deep crevice that conceals the treats. Just pop open, fill with treats, and pop back in before playing with your…

For this fun doggy game, you’ll need a Snoop or Kong toy, something to fill it with like kibble, peanut butter, cheese, or canned dog food. Then you simply fill it with the treat you’ve chosen and freeze the toy to ensure the filling is solid.

Once it’s frozen, you can give it to your dog and watch the fun. It will be a source of entertainment for hours as you watch him trying to get that treat. You should be aware, however, that some fillings get a little messy.

6. Towel roll

This is a really easy one that uses supplies you’ll have readily available. All you need is a towel, some dry kibble or other dog treats, and a floor. You simply lay the towel open on the floor and spread the dry dog food over it so that when you roll it up, the treats are distributed throughout the layers of the towel.

After that, just roll the towel and watch your dog get to work trying to unroll it to get the treats. You can turn this into a more difficult brain training game by using several towels that will make your dog have to use his problem-solving skills to find the ones with the treats.

7. Muffin tin puzzle

For this fun game, you need a muffin tin, enough tennis balls to fill the cups in the tin, and some kibble. There are three levels of difficulty with this brain training game too.

For your young learners, turn the muffin tin upside down and put some kibble in between the cups. Present it to your dog so he can turn the tin over to find the kibble.

To make it more difficult, put some kibble in each cup and cover it with a tennis ball. Present it to your dog and watch the fun.

For the most difficult level, just put kibble in a few cups and cover all cups with tennis balls. This will help your dog’s brain get primed for nose work. It’s great for dogs like beagles , but it’s also great fun for any dog.

8. Food dispensing toys

These are a little different from dog food puzzles in that they require more work to get the food out. Your dog will have to roll, bash, pull, or spin the toy to get it to dispense the food.

You might have heard about treat balls that are a simple version of this kind of dog toy. There are, however, more complex versions, and there are even some DIY dog food dispensing toys out there.

These are great for keeping your dog entertained, helping him with impulse control, and teaching him patience since he has to wait to get the dog food out.

Treat Tumble Interactive Puzzle Dog Toy, Red, Large

The Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Treat Tumble is a perfect puzzle ball for any pup! A level 1 treat-dispensing dog puzzle, the Treat Tumbler will keep your dog intrigued as they roll the ball and sniff around to find ways to release the reward. Easy to fill with two treat-dispensing holes. Made with food safe BPA-free plastic that is easy to wipe clean for outdoor and indoor fun!BEGINNER’S PUZZLE…

9. Hide and Seek

This is a particularly great game for those days when you can’t get outside, when there are children around to play too, or if you just want to help your dog with recall skills. It’s also easy to teach your dog.

To play hide and seek , simply either tell your dog to sit and stay or have someone hold him while you hide. When you’re ready, call him to come to find you, and when he does, praise him extensively.

You can increase the level of difficulty by hiding in increasingly difficult places, by having several people hide, or by making your dog find particular family members or toys.

10. Go Get It

This is probably one you’ve already taught your dog, but it’s a great way to help him with impulse control. Get some kind of treat like dog kibble, and show it to your dog so he knows what he’s looking for.

Then, throw the kibble and tell your dog, “Go get it!” His natural instincts will probably kick in, and he’ll be off and running. When he finds the treat, call him back to you and make him sit before moving on to the next round.

Once your dog understands the game, you can vary it by throwing the kibble at different distances and directions. You can also throw it up high one time and then roll it on the ground the next. Just be sure to make your dog come back and sit before starting a new round.

11. Put away your toys

Once playtime is over, it’s time to put everything away, and just like a child, your dog should help. This might take a while to teach, but when you get it done, it will be a great brain training game to make your dog feel like he’s done meaningful work.

Before you can teach him to put his toys away, however, you’ll need to teach him the “Go get it” command and the “Drop it” command. It’s also helpful if you teach him his toy names. When he knows those, you can get him to go get his toys and call him back to you.

Hold a basket out for him to drop his toy into, and each time he gets closer, give him plenty of praise and a reward when he actually drops the toy in the basket. Pretty soon, he’ll be happy to pick up after himself unlike your children, and maybe, your husband!

Brain Games for Dogs

Keeping your dog mentally sharp is part of keeping him healthy overall. These brain games for dogs can really help your pooch feel happier and more mentally stimulated too. These games will entertain him, and you, for hours. Before you know it, you’ll have a little doggy Einstein on your hands!

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| Pet Care Advice By Veterinarians |

10 Best Homemade Brain Games For Dogs

Reviewed By: Dr. Joel Robertson

Dr. Maria Baker (DVM)

Highly experienced Veterinary Surgeon and Radiologist with 10+ years in providing superior care to animals of all kinds.

Learn more about us.

Keeping your dog mentally stimulated is just as important as providing them with regular exercise and a balanced diet.

Engaging their mind not only helps to prevent boredom and destructive behavior but also promotes overall well-being and strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend.

In this guide, we will introduce the 10 best homemade brain games for dogs that are affordable, fun, and easy to create.

These games will challenge your dog’s problem-solving skills, scent-detection abilities, and agility, providing hours of entertainment and mental enrichment.

What Are Brain Games For Dogs

1. diy muffin tin puzzle, 2. cardboard box maze, 3. bottle spin dispenser, 4. tug-of-war treat dispenser, 5. homemade snuffle mat, 6. diy treat-dispensing toy, 7. sock puzzle game, 8. stuffed kong challenge, 9. ice cube treasure hunt, 10. diy agility course, 1. mental stimulation, 2. reduces anxiety and stress, 3. encourages problem-solving skills, 4. strengthens the bond between dog and owner, 5. promotes physical exercise, 6. improves scent detection abilities, 7. increases confidence, 8. provides enrichment for senior dogs, 9. slows down eating, 10. prevents obesity, why do dogs need brain training, how do you mentally stimulate a dog, how much mental stimulation does a dog need a day, do brain games tire your dog out, what is dog enrichment, how do brain games help in canine enrichment, why is enrichment important for your dog, q: what are some simple diy dog puzzles i can make at home, q: why is it important for dogs to have puzzle toys, q: how do i encourage my dog to use puzzle toys, q: can i use regular treats in puzzle toys, q: do i need to supervise my dog when they are using puzzle toys, q: how can enrichment toys benefit my dog, q: what are some other interactive games i can play with my dog, q: how can diy brain games help my dog, q: is it okay to let my dog play with puzzle toys on their own, q: can all dogs use puzzle toys, in conclusion.

Brain games for dogs are a great way to keep your furry friend entertained and mentally stimulated.

These games are designed to challenge your dog’s intelligence, problem-solving skills, and memory retention abilities.

They come in various forms such as puzzles, interactive toys, and even DIY games you can create at home. some popular examples include the treat-dispensing ball, hide-and-seek games, and the shell game.

Brain games provide numerous benefits for your dog, such as reducing boredom and destructive behavior, improving overall cognitive function, and enhancing the bond between you and your pet.

Moreover, they provide a great way to exercise your dog’s mind, which is just as important as their physical exercise.

Dogs that receive mental stimulation through games are less likely to develop cognitive issues as they age.

Brain games can help alleviate anxiety in dogs, especially if they are anxious about changes in their routines or spending time alone.

Incorporating brain games into your dog’s daily activities can be a lot of fun for both you and your pet, and can serve as a great bonding experience.

These homemade brain games offer an affordable and engaging way to provide mental stimulation for your dog, keeping their mind sharp and promoting overall well-being.

To create this brain game, place tennis balls or small rubber balls in a muffin tin and hide treats under some of the balls. Your dog will have to use their nose and paws to move the balls and find the hidden treats. This game challenges their problem-solving skills and engages their sense of smell.

Using multiple cardboard boxes of various sizes, create a maze by arranging the boxes in a way that leaves narrow paths for your dog to navigate. Hide treats within the maze, and encourage your dog to find them. This game stimulates their spatial awareness and problem-solving abilities.

Take an empty plastic bottle and cut small holes in it. Fill the bottle with your dog’s favorite dry treats or kibble. Attach the bottle horizontally to a wooden dowel or sturdy rope. Your dog will need to spin the bottle to release the treats, providing mental stimulation and entertainment.

Create a tug-of-war toy by threading a rope through a PVC pipe with holes drilled into it. Tie knots on both ends of the rope to secure it. Fill the pipe with treats, and let your dog tug on the rope to release them. This game combines physical activity with mental stimulation.

Using a rubber mat with holes and strips of fleece fabric, weave the fabric through the holes to create a dense, fluffy surface. Hide treats within the fabric, and let your dog use their nose to search for them. This game engages their natural foraging instincts and provides sensory stimulation.

Take a small plastic container with a lid, such as a yogurt cup or Tupperware, and cut a few small holes in the sides. Fill the container with treats, and secure the lid. Your dog will have to roll or toss the container to release the treats, providing mental exercise and entertainment.

Place a treat inside an old sock, and tie a knot to close it. Hide the sock among several other socks, and encourage your dog to find the one with the treat. This game challenges their scent-detection skills and provides mental stimulation.

Fill a Kong toy with a mixture of your dog’s favorite treats and wet food, such as peanut butter or canned pumpkin. Freeze the filled Kong for a few hours, creating a long-lasting treat that will keep your dog entertained and mentally engaged as they work to remove the contents.

Freeze small treats or kibble in ice cubes, then hide them around your yard or house. Your dog will need to search for the frozen treasures and wait for the ice to melt to access the treats. This game provides mental stimulation and is especially enjoyable on hot days.

Using household items or outdoor objects, create a simple agility course for your dog. Set up jumps with broomsticks, weave poles using traffic cones, or create a tunnel with a large cardboard box. Guide your dog through the course, helping them to navigate the obstacles safely. This game improves their problem-solving skills and agility while providing mental stimulation.

Benefits of Dog Puzzles and Games

Incorporating dog puzzles and games into your pet’s daily routine offers numerous benefits, promoting mental stimulation, physical exercise, and a strong bond between you and your furry companion.

Dog puzzles and games provide mental stimulation, keeping your dog’s mind active and engaged. This helps prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors and poor overall well-being.

Puzzles and games can help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs by providing them with an enjoyable and focused activity. This can be especially helpful for dogs that suffer from separation anxiety or are easily stressed by their environment.

Many dog puzzles and games are designed to challenge your dog’s problem-solving abilities, helping them develop critical thinking skills and become more adaptable in various situations.

Engaging in playtime and interactive games with your dog not only provides them with mental stimulation but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. This promotes a healthy, trusting relationship and enhances communication between you and your dog.

While dog puzzles and games primarily focus on mental stimulation, many of them also encourage physical activity. This can help keep your dog fit and healthy, contributing to their overall well-being.

Many dog puzzles and games involve hiding treats or toys, encouraging your dog to use its powerful sense of smell to locate the hidden items. This helps improve their scent detection abilities, which can be useful in various situations.

Successfully completing puzzles and games can boost your dog’s confidence, making them more self-assured and better equipped to handle new experiences and challenges.

As dogs age, they may experience cognitive decline, just like humans. Puzzles and games can provide valuable mental stimulation for senior dogs, helping to maintain their cognitive function and overall well-being.

For dogs that tend to eat too quickly, treat-dispensing puzzles can help slow down their eating pace, reducing the risk of choking, regurgitation, and other digestive issues.

By combining mental stimulation with physical activity, dog puzzles, and games can help prevent obesity in dogs by encouraging them to burn calories while engaging in playtime. This contributes to maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being.

A lack of mental stimulation can lead to boredom, depression, anxiety, and destructive behavior in dogs.

Brain training activities such as puzzle games, scent work, obedience training, and agility courses can provide numerous benefits for dogs, including improved cognitive function, stress relief, better communication with humans, and increased ability to cope with new situations.

Brain training also helps to strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner, as it provides an opportunity to spend quality time together and build trust and confidence.

Furthermore, brain training is essential for dogs that have unique needs such as service dogs, police dogs, and therapy dogs.

These dogs require specialized training to perform tasks that improve human lives or save them in emergency situations.

Mentally stimulating a dog involves engaging its mind through various activities, games, and challenges that help prevent boredom, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function. Here are some ways to mentally stimulate your dog:

Interactive Toys and Puzzles: Provide your dog with toys and puzzles designed to challenge their problem-solving skills, such as treat-dispensing toys, snuffle mats, or DIY puzzle games.
Obedience Training: Teach your dog new commands or tricks, reinforcing their learning with positive reinforcement. This not only stimulates their mind but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
Scent Games: Engage your dog’s powerful sense of smell with scent games like hiding treats or toys around the house or yard for them to find.
Socialization: Expose your dog to new experiences, environments, and other animals or people in a controlled and positive manner. This helps improve their adaptability and mental resilience.
Agility Training: Set up a simple agility course using household items or outdoor objects, guiding your dog through the obstacles to challenge its physical and mental abilities.
Food Puzzles and Slow Feeders: Use food puzzles or slow feeders during mealtime to make your dog work for their food, encouraging problem-solving and slowing down their eating pace.
Rotate Toys: Regularly rotate your dog’s toys to keep them interested and engaged, preventing boredom from setting in.
Brain Training Games: Teach your dog brain training games, such as the “shell game” or “which hand,” to challenge their cognitive abilities and memory.
Stuffed Kongs or Treat-Dispensing Toys: Fill a Kong toy or similar treat-dispensing toy with your dog’s favorite treats or wet food, then freeze it. This creates a long-lasting, mentally stimulating activity for your dog.

Dogs are intelligent and need mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. On average, a dog needs at least 30 minutes of mental stimulation each day.

This can be achieved through a variety of activities such as encouraging your dog to play with a dog toy, practicing obedience training, hiding dog toys or treats around the house for them to find, or even teaching them new tricks.

Dog puzzles and games are another great way to keep their minds busy and engaged. It’s important to make sure your dog has safe and appropriate toys to play with and to supervise them during playtime to ensure their safety.

Additionally, using dog treats as a reward during training sessions is also helpful. Mental stimulation not only helps keep dogs entertained, but it can also reduce negative behaviors such as anxiety, destructiveness, and excessive barking.

Overall, providing your dog with daily mental stimulation is essential for their well-being and is a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

While they may tire your dog out mentally, they may not necessarily tire them out physically. It’s important to let your dog participate in physical activities to maintain their overall health and well-being.

However, incorporating brain games into your pup’s daily routine can enhance their problem-solving skills, promote their cognitive function, and provide them with a sense of accomplishment.

These games can also help teach your dog new commands and behaviors, making training more enjoyable for both you and your furry companion.

Some great brain games include hiding treats around the house or in a puzzle toy, playing hide and seek, and practicing obedience with distractions.

Remember to always supervise your dog during playtime and make sure the games and exercises are appropriate for their age, breed, and physical capabilities.

Try to mix up the activities to prevent boredom and keep your pup mentally engaged and stimulated on a regular basis.

Dog enrichment is the process of providing stimulating and challenging activities to mentally and physically engage dogs.

It involves providing opportunities for dogs to use their natural instincts and behaviors to solve puzzles, play games, and engage in other interactive experiences.

Enrichment can come in many forms, such as providing environmental enrichment like toys and puzzle feeders, socialization with other dogs or people, and taking them on walks in different environments.

It is essential for dogs as it helps prevent boredom and associated destructive behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or digging.

Enrichment activities can also help build a dog’s confidence, reduce anxiety, and improve their overall well-being.

However, it is important to note that different dogs have different interests and preferences in enrichment activities.

Therefore, providing a wide range of enrichments will enable pet parents to figure out what works best for their dogs.

Ensuring that your dog is getting enough engagement, both social and mental, is an important aspect of pet ownership and can lead to a happier and healthier dog.

Brain games are an excellent way to enrich the lives of our furry companions. Just like people, dogs need mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Brain games challenge dogs mentally and physically. They stimulate their senses and encourage them to use their problem-solving skills to achieve a goal. This kind of activity can help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors in dogs.

Brain games also help to strengthen the bond between dogs and their human companions because they require interaction and socialization.

There are many different types of brain games for dogs, including puzzles, hide-and-seek, and scent games.

By using these games, we can help our dogs develop their cognitive abilities and improve their memory and concentration skills.

An important point to remember is that not all brain games are suitable for all dogs. We need to choose the games that suit our dog’s personality, age, and abilities. Regular gameplay can improve a dog’s overall well-being and reduce its stress levels.

Enrichment plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of your furry friend. It involves providing experiences that challenge and stimulate your dog’s senses, intellect, and instincts.

When dogs are bored or lead a sedentary life, they are more prone to develop destructive behaviors such as chewing, digging, and excessive barking.

Enrichment activities such as puzzle toys, scent work, agility training, and socialization can help prevent these negative behaviors.

Furthermore, enrichment can help improve your dog’s physical and mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.

A: Some simple DIY dog puzzles you can easily make at home include hiding treats under tennis balls in a muffin tin, placing treats inside a cardboard box with holes cut out for your dog to sniff out, and freezing treats inside a Kong toy.

A: Puzzle toys provide mental stimulation and can help prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They also help dogs develop problem-solving skills and keep them physically active.

A: Start by showing your dog how to use the puzzle toy and give treats as rewards. You can also make the puzzle more challenging as they get used to it to keep them engaged.

A: Yes, you can use regular treats in puzzle toys. However, you may want to adjust your dog’s meal portions accordingly to avoid overfeeding.

A: It is recommended to supervise your dog when they are using puzzle toys to ensure they are using it safely and not ingesting any small parts.

A: Enrichment toys, like puzzle toys, can keep your dog mentally stimulated, improve problem-solving skills, and prevent destructive behavior.

A: Games like tug-of-war, fetch, and hide-and-seek are great ways to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated.

A: DIY brain games can stimulate your dog’s mind and help prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

A: Yes, you can give puzzle toys to your dog to play with on their own. However, it’s important to supervise them to ensure they are using it safely.

A: Most dogs can use puzzle toys, but it’s important to choose an appropriate level of difficulty and supervise your dog while they use it.

The best homemade brain games for dogs provide an affordable and enjoyable way to keep your furry friend mentally stimulated and engaged.

These games not only challenge their problem-solving skills, scent-detection abilities, and agility but also strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

By incorporating a variety of brain games into your dog’s daily routine, you can promote their overall well-being, prevent boredom, and ensure a happy, healthy, and well-behaved companion.

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The 6 Best Brain Games for Dogs

Anja Boecker
Updated: 2024-06-20

The most important facts in brief:

Why are brain games important? They promote mental stimulation, problem-solving skills and reduce stress in dogs, which leads to fewer behavioral problems.
Simple brain games: Hide-and-seek games with treats, cup games and the "which hand" game are easy to play and promote cognitive development.
Interactive toys: Food dispensers, puzzle boards and sniffer mats offer varied challenges and promote your dog's mental health.
Homemade brain games: Simple materials such as bottles, cardboard boxes and socks can be used to make creative brain games that challenge the dog mentally.
Training games: Combinations of physical and mental activity, such as agility training and trick training, promote the dog's general fitness and well-being.

Want to add some variety to your time together? Does your dog seem underchallenged? Want to keep his cute little head busy? Then you've come to the right place! Here are 6 brain games and other dog activities you can try with your pet to have fun together.

Why Dog Activities Are So Important

Have you ever wondered why brain games are so important for your dog? More than just a pastime, brain games are the key to your dog's mental stimulation and health.

Just like you, your dog can get bored. A little variety in your activities can help. In addition to walks, your four-legged friend needs mental exercise to be a balanced companion in everyday life.

Physical activity is essential for your dog's health, but mental stimulation is just as important. Brain games challenge your dog's brain and keep him mentally active and engaged.

Brain games exercise your dog's brain and develop his problem-solving and decision-making skills. Joint activities during brain games strengthen the bond between you and your dog and promote mutual understanding.

Mental challenges can reduce behavioral problems caused by boredom or stress. Brain games provide meaningful activity and help put excess energy to good use.

If your pet does not have enough to do, it will quickly get into silly thoughts. He usually shows his boredom by doing things that are forbidden. For example, he may knock over the garbage can or turn your shoes into a toy.

Scolding your dog is not the answer. You need to get to the root of the problem. You can do this by mixing up the day with brain games. You'll see how much fun your little friend will have.

Advantages & Benefits

Brain games are not only fun for your dog, they also play an important role in his mental health and overall well-being.

1. Mental Stimulation

Brain games keep your dog's brain active and engaged. They help maintain mental agility and promote mental skills. Brain games encourage your dog's natural curiosity and urge to explore.

2. Problem-Solving Skills

Brain games encourage your dog's cognitive development by challenging him to solve problems and learn new skills. With each puzzle or game solved, your dog's confidence grows. Success in brain games can help him feel more confident and competent.

3. Reduce Stress

Brain games are a constructive way to reduce stress and anxiety. They give the dog a task to focus on, which helps to calm his mind. Regular mental challenges prevent boredom, which often leads to destructive behavior.

4. Promoting Wellness

By solving puzzles and overcoming challenges, these games promote your dog's overall emotional well-being. Brain games provide a varied activity that enriches your dog's daily life and brings him joy.

How to Keep Your Dog Busy Through Play

A dog needs to be kept busy. You've probably heard this many times. But how do you do it? What does a dog like to do? How do you know it enjoys something?

The answer is both simple and complicated: Try different things. Does your dog like to dig into things? Does he like to follow exciting scents? Does he like to think around corners to get to the big reward?

The easiest way to find out is to try different games with your pet. Your pet will be happy if you spend time with him. Prepare a game for him and see if he accepts it gratefully or if he doesn't really know what to do with it.

The frequency and difficulty of the brain games your dog needs can be roughly inferred from the breed. Ultimately, however, each dog has an individual character and its own interests that it enjoys. You know your pet best. Together, you can find out what his favorite game is.

What Are the Different Types of Dog Activity?

Dogs can be kept busy in several ways. There is physical activity and there is mental activity. For a balanced dog, it is important to provide a little bit of both.

Physical exercise is often easy to achieve. For many dogs, daily walks are enough. If not, you can take them biking, jogging, playing ball, or trying dog sports like agility.

Only mental training raises questions for many dog owners. What exactly does it mean? Dogs are very intelligent creatures. Of course, that intelligence needs to be challenged! This is done through training, teaching your dog new tricks, but also through play.

When your dog smells something, his brain is working overtime. Searching for something with your sense of smell is fun for your loyal companion. At the same time, it can be quite exhausting. You can take advantage of this by keeping him on his toes with little brain teasers.

# 1) Simple Brain Games

Brain games are a great way to keep your dog mentally challenged and entertained. Best of all, many brain games don't require special toys or equipment. Here are some simple but effective brain games you can try with your dog.

Hide and Seek With Treats

Hide some treats in your house or yard while your dog watches. Then give him the command to find them. This game develops your dog's sniffing skills and encourages him to actively explore his surroundings.

Use three cups or small bowls and hide a treat under one of the cups. Have your dog watch you move the cups and see if he can guess which cup the treat is under. This game develops your dog's attention and memory.

Name Learning Game

Name a specific toy and show it to your dog. Then hide it in a simple hiding place and ask your dog to retrieve the toy by name. Your dog will learn to name toys, which will improve his cognitive skills.

"Which Hand" Game

Hide a treat in one hand. Hold both hands closed in front of your dog and let him guess which hand the treat is in. This game develops your dog's decision-making skills and sense of smell.

Simple Search Tasks

Hide a favorite toy or treat in an easily accessible place and send your dog on a search. This type of game builds your dog's independence and problem-solving skills.

#2) Interactive Toys and Puzzles

Interactive toys and puzzles are a great way to develop your dog's thinking skills while having fun.

Food Dispenser

These toys release treats or food when your dog manipulates them in a certain way, such as rolling or shaking. They encourage natural hunting and problem-solving skills and provide hours of playtime fun.

Puzzle Boards

Puzzle boards consist of different compartments in which treats can be hidden. The dog must figure out how to get to the treats, often by moving, lifting, or rotating puzzle pieces. These puzzles require concentration and patience and provide a challenging mental activity.

Intelligence Toys

These toys are often more complex and require a series of actions to reach the hidden food. They can include sliding elements, rotating mechanisms, or multi-step puzzles. They encourage critical thinking and are ideal for dogs looking for an advanced challenge.

Sniffer Mats / Sniffer Carpet

Sniffer mats are fabric mats with lots of hiding places for treats. The dog has to work with his nose to find the treats. These mats encourage your dog's sense of smell and provide a natural and calming activity. You can also make this brain teaser yourself. Just use a deep pile carpet to hide treats.

Interactive Food Balls, Rings and Kongs

Some interactive toys are in the form of balls or rings that challenge the dog mentally and physically by encouraging it to roll, chase, and think. These toys combine physical activity with mental stimulation and are ideal for active dogs.

Providing your dog with a selection of interactive toys and puzzles will not only add variety to his daily routine, but will also actively promote his mental health and well-being. These types of toys can help prevent boredom and provide a meaningful and satisfying activity for your dog.

#3) Homemade Brain Games

You don't have to spend a lot of money to challenge your dog mentally. There are many easy and inexpensive ways to make your own brain games. Here are some creative ideas you can try out at home.

Homemade Sniffing Box

You will need a box, old towels, or scraps of fabric. Crumple up the towels or rags and hide treats inside. Then let your dog sniff through the box looking for the treats. It encourages scent recognition and provides a fun search task.

Spin the Bottle

You will need a sturdy plastic bottle and a stick or broom handle. Punch holes in the bottle, fill it with treats, and place it on the stick. The dog must learn to turn the bottle to get the treats. It trains problem-solving and dexterity.

Cardboard Maze

You will need several boxes and treats. Build a small maze out of the boxes and hide treats inside. Your dog will have to work his way through the maze to find the treats. This helps develop spatial awareness and problem-solving skills.

Cup and Ball Game

You will need several cups and a small ball or other toy. Hide the ball under one of the cups and then mix them up. Your dog has to guess which cup the ball is under. The goal is to improve observation and decision-making skills.

DIY Agility Course

You will need household items such as chairs, broomsticks, or cushions. Create a simple agility course in your backyard or living room. Guide your dog through the course and reward him for his efforts. It combines physical activity with a mental challenge.

These homemade brain games are a great way to keep your dog challenged without spending a lot of money. Not only do they promote your dog's mental fitness, but they are also a wonderful way to have fun together and deepen your bond.

#4) Training Games for Mental Development

Training games that develop both physical and mental skills are a great way to keep your dog fit and healthy. Not only are these games entertaining, but they are also extremely useful in promoting your dog's cognitive and physical development. Here are some suggestions for incorporating games into your daily routine.

Get With Commands

Combine fetch with basic commands such as sit, down, or stay. Give your dog a command before throwing the toy. This encourages physical activity as well as obedience and focus.

Hide and Seek

Hide yourself or a toy and let your dog find you or the toy. Train your dog's sniffing and problem-solving skills while encouraging exercise.

Agility Training at Home

Build a simple agility course using everyday objects. Guide your dog through different stations such as slaloms, jumps or tunnels. It improves physical dexterity while developing understanding of instructions and concentration.

Trick Training

Teach your dog new tricks like "paw", "roll over", or "sit pretty". It increases cognitive flexibility while improving coordination and balance.

Food Ball Games

Use a food ball that releases treats when moved. Let your dog figure out how to get the treat. Combines physical activity with mental challenge and builds problem-solving skills.

These training games are a great way to break up your dog's daily routine while challenging him mentally and physically. They not only strengthen the bond between you and your dog, but also contribute to a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

#5) Games for Advanced Learners

For dogs who already have experience with brain games, there are challenging activities that will further develop and challenge their skills. Here are some ideas for advanced brain games that will help your dog take his cognitive skills to the next level.

Hide-And-Seek for Advanced Players

Increase the difficulty of hide-and-seek games by hiding treats or toys in hard-to-reach places. You can also use multiple hiding places at the same time. Train your dog's problem-solving skills and stamina.

Complex Trick Training

Combine multiple tricks into a trick chain that requires your dog to perform multiple commands in a specific order. The goal is to develop memory and the ability to perform complex tasks.

Interactive Puzzle Toy

Use more complex puzzle toys that require multiple steps to reach the reward. These can be twist and slide mechanisms or multistep puzzles. The goal should be to encourage cognitive flexibility and strategic thinking.

Recovering with Obstacles

Incorporate obstacles such as jumps or tunnels into the retrieval game. Your dog must retrieve the toy while overcoming the obstacles. It combines physical skill with a mental challenge.

Odor Differentiation

Teach your dog to discriminate between different smells and find the right object based on its scent. It trains your dog's sense of smell and promotes concentration.

These advanced games not only provide your dog with a mental challenge, but also strengthen your bond as you work together on complex tasks. These activities keep your dog mentally active and prevent boredom by providing constant challenges.

Too theoretical for you? If you prefer a visual approach, our app gives you more ideas for brain games with step-by-step video instructions. Learn more about our app here.

3 Indoor Brain Games

Maybe there's a thunderstorm outside, the summer heat hits you in the face as soon as you leave the house, or you just want to spend time with your dog at home. There are also great brain-teasers that are easy to organize and will keep your furry friend busy.

Game #1: Take Off Socks

You only need three things to play this game: old socks, a clothesline (or something similar), and treats. First, fill the socks with treats. Hang the clothesline where your dog can easily reach it.

Now hang the socks loosely over the clothesline so your dog can easily pull them down. Let him try on his own first. If he gets stuck, encourage him and show him that the socks are super interesting and worth pulling until they fall off.

If your dog has trouble understanding the game at first, you can reward him with treats when he removes a sock. When he has mastered the game, you can let him work out his own reward by taking the treat out of the sock. The sock can also be torn.

Once your dog gets the hang of it, increase the difficulty. Hang the clothesline a little higher so your pet has to jump to catch a sock, or wrap the socks a little tighter around the clothesline so they are harder to unhook.

Game #2: Treasure Chest

This game uses your dog's nose. You will need a crate of the correct height for your dog, socks, newspaper, and treats. The crate should be just high enough for your dog to easily stick his head over the edge and his snout to reach the bottom of the crate.

Fill the box with socks, crumpled newspaper, or similar material. Hide some treats between the socks and newspaper so your pet can't see them directly.

Place the box in front of your dog and let him search. He will follow the scent of the treats and sniff through the box to find them. This brainteaser is really easy to set up and most dogs enjoy it.

Game #3: Rotating Rollers

To play this game, you will need some rolls of cardboard, string, tape, scissors, and treats. First, fold each roll in half on one side so nothing can fall out. Secure this end with tape to keep it in place.

Next, use the scissors to cut a small hole in each roll. Now thread all the rolls together on the string. Tie the string at the height of your dog's head, such as between two table legs. The open side of the rolls should be facing up.

Place a treat in each roll. Your dog must now try to push the rolls with his nose or paw to flip them over and drop the treat on the floor. If he doesn't understand the game at first, turn the rolls yourself or point at them. This will teach your dog that he has to move them to get the treat.

3 Outdoor Brain Games

If regular walks are too monotonous for you and your faithful companion, why not add a fun puzzle game every now and then? You're guaranteed to have more fun on your outings together, and your pet will be mentally challenged when you get home.

Game #1: Search for Clues

You will need your dog's favorite treats to play this game. Be sure to play this game only in an area that you know or have thoroughly searched. This will protect your pet from dangerous objects and toxic waste.

Place a good-smelling treat on the ground. Begin by placing a treat every few feet along the trail. This way, your dog will always have a small reward as he searches. At the end of the trail should be your dog's favorite treat - the big jackpot. Be overjoyed when he reaches it. This will also show him that he has done everything right.

Start with 5-6 meters for the first few trials. Concentrated sniffing is very hard on your dog's head. Over time you can increase the distance. Well trained dogs can do up to 100 meters and more. The goal is always the jackpot at the end of the track.

Game No. 2: Forest Search Game

This brain teaser is perfect for those times when you want to take a walk in the woods. Take treats and your dog's favorite toy and turn the woods into your playground.

Put your four-legged friend down and let him watch you hide his toys and some treats. You can use logs, moss, and twigs, among other things. Once you have created a few hiding places, send your dog out to find the rewards.

Praise him with extra words when he finds something you hid. He needs to remember where you've been and use his nose to find the treats and toys. This will train your furry friend.

Game #3: Triangle Exercise

All you need to play this game is a toy and some treats. Make sure you have checked the field where you are playing for dangerous objects. This will ensure safety.

Instruct your dog to sit in one corner of the imaginary triangle and stay there. Now place a toy or treat in the second corner of the triangle. Say "no" so your dog knows he cannot go there.

Now stand in the third corner of your playing field. Call your dog to you. He should resist the impulse to run straight to the exciting treat. When your dog comes to you, praise him verbally before taking a treat from your pocket and giving it to him.

Then send your dog to the corner with the toy or treat. This is his big reward for resisting the initial temptation and obeying your command. After a few successful trials, make the triangle smaller and smaller.

This way, the distance to the toy/treat gets smaller and smaller, and your faithful friend has to work harder and harder to resist the tempting corner of the triangle until you give him permission.

If you are good at the game, you can toss the toy in the corner. The quick movement encourages your dog to play. But your dog must resist and, as always, come to you first.

Implementation and Security

Brain games are a great way to keep your dog mentally challenged and entertained. However, it is important to consider some safety issues to ensure that your dog is protected while playing.

Supervision During the Game

Always stay close and watch your dog while he is playing mind games to make sure he doesn't get frustrated or put himself in danger. Watch for signs of stress or overexertion, such as excessive panting, restlessness, or lack of interest. Stop playing if your dog shows signs of stress.

Choose Safe Toys

Choose toys that are appropriate for your dog's size and chewing habits. Avoid small parts that could be swallowed. Inspect the toy regularly for damage such as cracks or loose parts that could pose a hazard.

Adapting to Your Dog

Adapt games to your dog's age, abilities, and interests. Not every game is appropriate for every dog. Start with simple tasks and slowly increase the level of difficulty to avoid overwhelming your dog.

Take Adequate Breaks

Give your dog plenty of time to relax and recover between brain games. Keep play sessions short, especially if the games are challenging, to avoid mental fatigue.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Use positive reinforcement to show your dog that he is on the right track. Praise and treats can be very motivating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, even dogs can get bored. They usually look for something to do themselves. These are often forbidden things.

Your dog needs your attention every day. How much you should play together varies from dog to dog. For some, 2-3 short games a week are enough in addition to walks, while others like to be kept busy for 1-2 hours a day.

There's not much room in the house for big games, but there are plenty of small brain games that can be played indoors. See our article for suggestions.

Every dog has different game preferences. You can find out what your furry friend likes best by trying different games. However, a mix of physical and mental activity is important for any four-legged friend.

There are many different ways to keep your dog occupied. Games don't have to be complicated. As soon as your favorite needs to use his nose, his little head is hard at work.

Every dog needs physical and mental activity, but they are all individuals. One dog's favorite game may not be of interest to another. Be creative and try different brain games with your dog. You will discover a new favorite game together.

My name is Anja Boecker, and I am a certified dog trainer and behavior consultant. With these articles, I want to help you to understand your dog better and to build an inseparable bond.

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Rubik's Cube, Special Retro 50th Anniversary Edition, Original 3x3 Color-Matching Puzzle Classic Problem-Solving Challenging Brain Teaser Fidget Toy, for Adults & Kids Ages 8+

SPECIAL 50TH ANNIVERSARY CUBE: Go retro with a Rubik’s Cube that looks and feels like it’s a toy from the past, complete with classic boxy edges, slower turning, stickers, gold side, and special anniversary logo, presented in a retro plastic display case.
THE ORIGINAL RUBIK’S CUBE: A combination of math, art and science, the iconic Rubik’s Cube challenges minds and problem-solving skills. The classic 3x3 is one of the world’s best-known puzzles since 1980.
TURN, TWIST & REPEAT: The Rubik’s Cube features six different colored sides of nine squares each. Once the faces are jumbled, twist, turn, and rotate until each of the six faces has only one color.
A MUST HAVE FOR PUZZLE LOVERS: This original cube has 43,252,003,274,489,856,000 combinations, but only one solution. Do you have what it takes to solve the world’s favorite puzzle?
CLASSIC PUZZLE-SOLVING GAMEPLAY: This challenging puzzle is the same retro toy that you remember from childhood. Brain teaser, fidget toy, or travel puzzle, this brain puzzle is your new go-to cube.
Includes 1 Rubik’s Cube
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Product information

Product Dimensions	2.24 x 2.24 x 0.04 inches
Item Weight	5.4 ounces
ASIN	B0CCW4F1CH
Item model number	6068726
Manufacturer recommended age	8 years and up
Best Sellers Rank	#1,564 in Toys & Games ( ) #10 in
Customer Reviews	4.7 out of 5 stars
Release date	November 30, 2023
Manufacturer	Spin Master

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Product Description

Launched to celebrate Rubik’s 50th anniversary, the special edition Rubik’s Cube looks and feels like it came right out of a time capsule! Fans of fidget toys and vintage toys will love this classic toy modeled after the first edition Rubik’s Cubes, complete with sharp edges, clunky turning, standard stickers. The Rubik’s Cube is a classic color-matching puzzle that can be enjoyed at home or on the move. The original, classic 3x3 cube is a highly addictive brain teaser that has fascinated fans all around the world for decades. The Rubik’s Cube features six different sides, each made up of nine colorful squares. A must for puzzle lovers and fans of puzzles for adults and kids puzzles, the aim is to try twist and turn the Rubik’s Cube to its original state, with every side having one solid color. There are 43,252,003,274,489,856,000 ways of arranging the squares, and only one of these is the solution. Turn and twist away – can you solve it? The retro plastic display case with throwback logo and design as well as the Rubik’s Cube whole collection make the perfect gifts for men, gifts for women, and gifts for teens. Celebrate 50 years of puzzle solving with Rubik’s Cube.

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Rubik’s Cube, Special Retro 50th Anniversary Edition




Customer Reviews
Difficulty	Beginner	Intermediate	Advanced	Intermediate	Beginner	Beginner
Feature	Don’t let the size fool you – with over 3.6 million possible permutations and only one solution, this is a brain teaser that will challenge you again and again.	The classic 3x3 Rubik’s Cube is the world’s best-known addictive puzzle and has fascinated fans since its launch in 1980. A true icon.	This 4x4 puzzle is made up of 56 small cubes, but the center pieces move in relation to each other, making it even more difficult.	Go retro with a Rubik’s Cube that looks and feels like it’s a toy from the past, complete with classic boxy edges, slower turning, stickers, gold side, and special anniversary logo, presented in a retro plastic display case.	Play a new twist on the classic Rubik’s Cube with a game inspired by the iconic brain teaser made to challenge your flexible thinking, speed, and problem-solving skills.	This Amazon Exclusive Race game has 6 added tiles and an added layer of complexity, making it the perfect puzzle gift for any Rubik’s enthusiast in your life!

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5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 83% 10% 4% 1% 2% 83%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 83% 10% 4% 1% 2% 10%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 83% 10% 4% 1% 2% 4%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 83% 10% 4% 1% 2% 1%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 83% 10% 4% 1% 2% 2%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the performance, smoothness of movement, and fun of the puzzle. They say it's engaging for kids and fun to solve. Customers also say it’s good value for the money. However, some customers report that the fit of the cube is a little looser than expected.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the smoothness of movement of the puzzle. They say the rows and columns swivel seamlessly and are durable enough to withstand the hands of most.

"...The movement of the cube is seamless, with each turn feeling smooth and secure...." Read more

" Super easy to rotate and super cool looking. Also love that it doesn’t have stickers so it won’t wear over time. My new go to Rubik’s cube." Read more

"...This one is not as expected it is not smooth actions Jerry does like to lineup...." Read more

"...CONS:1. Not really a con, but while this is a super smooth cube , it is not a speed-cube like that you see real experts use...." Read more

Customers find the puzzle fun, engaging for kids, and fun to solve. They also say it's a great toy that keeps them entertained for a good while and makes them think. Customers also mention the step-by-step moves and interesting Rubik's Cube fun facts.

"...Not only does it add a layer of sophistication and modernity to the iconic cube, but it also provides an intriguing look into the inner workings of..." Read more

"...Not too big or small.The saturation of the colors makes it more enticing to use . The quality of the cubes itself is great!..." Read more

"...although it is lighter than it was in the 80’s, it is still fun to fiddle around with ." Read more

"You figure it out? I did? Great kids toy " Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the puzzle. They mention it's sturdy, works well for the price, and is not cheap.

"...for hours, days, even months of fun...definitely the best investment for the money .4. High quality...." Read more

"The kids love it, it's sturdy, good value for the money , it's fun, fits in your purse, and it's pretty." Read more

"...Slick movement easy to use, well put together. Would highly recommend good price too." Read more

"...The value was excellent , and it was a unique find compared to the ones offered at Disneyland." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the puzzle. They mention that it works extremely well, is functional, and turns smoothly. Some say that the product is constructed better and functions better than knockoffs. Overall, most are happy with the quality and performance of this product.

"...4. High quality. I have been using it for months now and it is still working great ..." Read more

"Its a standard rubix cube. Sturdy and functional . Has held up well with three little kids" Read more

"Purchased the Rubik's cube and am very satisfied with the product ." Read more

" This thing is great ! Really brings back old memories of being a kid!" Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the quality of the Rubik's cube. Some find the build quality excellent, durable, and holds up well with three little kids. However, others say that it's a bit flimsy, wobbly at first, and breaks easily.

"...The build quality is excellent , ensuring that even after multiple solves, the cube maintains its integrity and the colors remain as vibrant as ever,..." Read more

"Super easy to rotate and super cool looking . Also love that it doesn’t have stickers so it won’t wear over time. My new go to Rubik’s cube." Read more

"...The rest are poor quality . They would pop pieces out when you turn them." Read more

"PROS:1. Inexpensive.2. Stand is a nice bonus for display ...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the fit of the puzzle. They mention that the pieces on the cube are very loose, and the turning mechanism is loose. Some say that the product is sturdy enough for their needs, but some feel that it loses its lubrication.

"It’s a good cube but my only problem was that the pieces on the cube were very loose and to the point it felt like it was going to come apart" Read more

"...although at times this becomes its downside as the "smoothness" can be a bit loos and cause parts that you do not intend, turn...." Read more

"This cube feels a little bit worse than the standard rubiks brand 3x3 with tiles...." Read more

"...This one is seamless! Easy to use and the size is perfect! Not too big or small .The saturation of the colors makes it more enticing to use...." Read more

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How did Raygun qualify for the Olympics? Is she really the best Australia has to offer?

By Mawunyo Gbogbo

ABC Entertainment

Topic: Olympic Games

Rachael "Raygun" Gunn did not score a single point at the Paris Olympics. ( Getty Images: Elsa )

Since Australian breaker Rachael "Raygun" Gunn failed to score a single point in any of her Olympic bouts, many have asked how she qualified for the Games.

Fellow breaker and anthropologist Lucas Marie says she won her qualification "fair and square" last year, but African American man Malik Dixon has criticised the Olympic body for letting her in.

What's next?

Breaking will not be an event at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games — a decision made before Raygun's performance.

The 2024 Paris Olympics marked breaking's debut as a sport at the global event, with 36-year-old lecturer and breaker Rachael "Raygun" Gunn representing Australia for the first time.

Having failed to win a single point in any of her Olympic bouts, Raygun quickly became a viral sensation.

The question on many people's minds now is: How did she even qualify?

Lucas Marie is a breaker who has competed, performed, taught and judged breaking competitions over the past 25 years. He's also an anthropologist who recently co-authored an article with Gunn.

He says the answer to that question is simple.

A black and white close-up image of Lucas Marie smiling.

Lucas Marie recently co-authored an article with Raygun. ( Supplied )

"There was an Oceania qualifier in which any B-boy or B-girl from Australia [or] New Zealand could enter, and that was in Sydney in October 2023," he told ABC News.

"And leading up to that, there were a lot of other events in which breakers were competing.

"She won those battles fair and square and won the qualification in Sydney.

"And it wasn't really a surprise to anyone.

"She's been fairly consistent, winning or coming second or third at a lot of breaking events in Australia for the last five to 10 years."

Marie said there was nothing out of the ordinary about Raygun's performance.

"It's not like gymnastics where there's this kind of agreed-upon standard," he said.

"It's always had a rawness to it. It's always had an improvisational kind of quality. And I think looking different and trying different stuff has always been celebrated.

"And I think Raygun, in a way, was just expressing a core kind of hip hop trait in a way a lot of breakers do."

He described her efforts as bold.

"I thought — and this is how I judge a lot of breaking events — I thought, 'Oh, she's making some really interesting choices to mimic Australian animals.' And you can kind of see the choices that she's making in the moment."

Is she the best Australia has to offer?

Team Australia chef de mission Anna Meares insisted after Raygun's performance that she was the best breaker the country had to offer. But is this true?

A man in purple pants doing a handstand.

Lucas Marie has competed, performed, taught and judged breaking competitions for more than 25 years. ( Supplied: momentsby.naz )

"It's sometimes just who's performing better on the day," Marie said.

"And at the qualification event in which she won, and other events in which she's won, she performed better on that day and won the ticket.

"That doesn't mean she's the best. It doesn't really work like that.

"I think she's a great breaker. She won the qualification. She's won other events in the past, and she was a good representative for Australia at that competition."

Asked whether there were B-girls in Perth, regional Victoria or rural Brisbane who might have qualified but could not afford to travel to Sydney for the tryouts, Marie agreed this was possible.

"Of course, there's breakers all over the country that maybe should have been in that event, but they weren't."

Breaking will not carry over to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, a decision made before Raygun's battle.

Marie described this as sad.

"Maybe, based on the ratings, they'll reassess that and maybe allocate some medals to breaking," he said.

"I really hope that's the case, and I hope that for other breakers who want to compete in it as a dance sport."

Marie said that at the end of the day people should remember they were dealing with a human.

"As a friend of Rachael's, there's a human being who's getting a lot of negative attention," he said.

"I think people kind of miss that sometimes and forget the human aspect of all this."

'Toying with the culture'

Malik Dixon is an African American who has been living in Australia for more than a decade and is a Sydney University graduate.

He said Raygun made a total "mockery" out of breaking at the Olympics.

A blurry image of Malik Dixon wearing a blue shirt reading "CHAPEL HILL".

Malik Dixon says too many people feel entitled to African American culture. ( Supplied )

"She was dressed like a member of the cricket team or an Australian PE teacher, and from that point it just seemed like satire," Mr Dixon told ABC News.

"It just looked like somebody who was toying with the culture and didn't know how culturally significant it was being the first time in the Olympics and just how important it was to people who really cherish hip hop and one of the elements of hip hop, which is breakdancing.

"It made me think, was Borat her breakdancing coach?"

Mr Dixon said too many people felt entitled to African American culture.

"The African American space has been one where we've shared our community so much and without any restraints, any barriers, roadblocks, obstacles, any gatekeepers, that essentially what should have been African American cultural capital is just shared, which is cool," he said.

"We like to share, right?

"We shared 400 years of free labour.

"To see Rachael in her attempt to be a part of the culture just be grossly underwhelming made it seem like she didn't take it seriously."

Olympics body criticised for Raygun qualification

Mr Dixon criticised the body that qualified Raygun, saying she devalued breaking with her performance.

"Whatever governing body nominated her as Australia's entrant into the Olympics either did not understand the assignment or didn't really believe in the integrity or significance of breakdancing, because if they did they would just say, rather than disrespect the culture, we're just not ready to send an applicant this year."

He said Raygun was extremely audacious and not self-aware.

"You've got to know your role, know your position, know your limitation," he said.

"And I think that part of privilege is saying that there are no limits to what I can do.

"Part of privilege is having the authority to say that there are no limits and there are no requirements, there are no prerequisites to what I can do."

Raygun's degrees do not hold much water with Mr Dixon.

"Due to consumerism, this Foundational Black American product, which is hip hop, is global," he said.

"And even people who have no connection to any African Americans or any local or regional things that come out in these songs, they have become a part of the whole experience now.

"If I came in and said that I was an authority on Greek music and I was going against the grain of what the mainstream Greek musicians thought, or the school of thought, and I've said that I was the authority, people would check me on that.

"If I had a PhD in sprinting, does that qualify me to go against Noah Lyles? No, it doesn't."

He also doubts Raygun was the best breaker Australia had to offer.

"[There's] got to be somebody out here that's better than that! The kangaroo! The sprinkler! She did the sprinkler out there, man!" he said.

Should everybody just lighten up?

Should we lighten up? Mr Dixon does not believe so.

"Larrikinism is used as a get-out-of-jail-free card and to escape responsibility of how words or actions impact a hurt person," he said.

"But when the majority culture is offended, there's no playing around.

"This is a part of my culture, and I don't think Australians are in a place to tell me how I should feel about breakdancing being mocked on an international stage.

"People who don't have any or limited access to black people or hip hop culture now may see Rachael and her buffoonery as a representation of hip hop and black culture.

"People who were already side-eyeing breakdancing as an Olympic sport, Rachael Gunn has put the nail in that coffin.

"This might be the most viral clip of the whole Olympics. From a comedy standpoint, she's got it, but from an Olympics perspective, its regressive."

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How wordle and other games can improve your leadership skills.

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By Dominique Harroch

Research suggests that word games and puzzles have measurable cognitive benefits.

Are you one of the millions of people who start or end their day with brain teasers or puzzles? It turns out this is a fantastic way to help you become a great leader. In today's fast-paced business world, the qualities that define strong leaders and successful entrepreneurs extend beyond traditional skills and knowledge. The ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and remain mentally agile are just as crucial—and these are precisely the skills honed through the daily practice of solving puzzles like The New York Times’ Wordle, Connections, Crossword, and Spelling Bee games.

While hundreds of thousands (and in the case of Wordle, millions) of people enjoy playing these games every day, they are not just a source of entertainment. They are also powerful tools for sharpening the mind, enhancing strategic thinking, and fostering the persistence and creativity necessary for leadership and entrepreneurial success.

7 ways games help strengthen your leadership skills

Engaging in these very popular word puzzles can be a daily exercise in developing the cognitive and problem-solving skills that are essential for anyone looking to lead or innovate in their field. Here’s how these games hone qualities essential for entrepreneurs.

1. They teach you to gather information to make an informed decision

In a business environment, just as in the game Wordle, solutions can be right in front of you, hidden in plain sight. Wordle is a popular daily word puzzle where players have six attempts to guess a five-letter word. Players use feedback clues to refine their choices and work towards identifying the correct word. Wordle combines elements of logic, deduction, and vocabulary skills.

These brain game puzzles teach you to pay attention to clues, a skill that is invaluable in managing teams, projects, and even crises. Just as you must use deductive reasoning based on the letters you’ve chosen in order to determine the correct word, leaders must analyze the data, feedback, and environment around them to make informed decisions. In the Wordle game, sometimes you have the right letter in the wrong space. As a leader, you may have great team members who are in the wrong role or simply do not belong in your organization. Recognizing these relationships in the big picture are important to a successful team.

2. They challenge you to take a different perspective–and a break, if necessary

The Spelling Bee game from The New York Times challenges players to create as many words as possible from a set of seven letters. The game gives you the option to scramble the letters to see them from different perspectives.

Finding all the possible words in a Spelling Bee puzzle can be time-consuming and frustrating, much like solving a real-world business problem. The game reinforces the importance of persistence, teaching leaders that the best solutions usually require time and repeated effort.

Often, the most obvious words aren't immediately visible. You can shuffle the letters, rearranging your perspective, and suddenly, what was seemingly hidden comes into view. This is akin to problem-solving in leadership. When faced with a challenge, the first solution isn't always the best or most creative. By taking a step back and "scrambling" your approach, you can often find innovative solutions that weren’t initially apparent.

Sometimes, you just need a break. By waiting a few hours and revisiting the puzzle, words and solutions become obvious. In business, too, you may just need some time in between the issue and the solution. How often does a new idea come to you in the shower or the middle of the night? New perspectives can help you solve problems that may seem overwhelming at first.

3. They force you to focus on the important things and avoid distraction

In puzzles, just as in leadership, solutions aren't always clear at first. Wordle, for instance, involves a process of elimination—removing wrong guesses to hone in on the right word. Similarly, effective leaders must sift through data, discard irrelevant information, and focus on what truly matters. This process sharpens your ability to discern patterns, understand relationships, and make better decisions. Like playing a game, leading a business to success requires leaders to eliminate distraction and focus on key goals.

4. They encourage creative problem-solving

The New York Times game Connections challenges players to find relationships between seemingly unrelated words. In this game, players are presented with a grid of 16 words, and their task is to group the words into sets of four based on shared themes or connections. The connections can be straightforward or subtle, requiring players to think critically and draw associations that aren't immediately obvious.

The Connections game forces you to think about relationships between ideas, words, and thoughts in new ways. This mirrors the creative and strategic thinking required in leadership. Leaders must be able to connect seemingly disparate ideas, identify underlying patterns, and communicate these connections to inspire and guide their teams.

5. They push you to be more time-efficient

The Mini crossword offered by the The New York Times , unlike the other puzzles, has a timer on it and challenges solvers to complete the puzzle in under 45 seconds. Speed matters in many work environments, so training your brain to work on clues quickly is as valuable as making space for thinking through solutions over a longer period of time.

These exercises also foster adaptability and the capacity to approach problems from various angles while doing so in as efficient a way as possible. Leaders who engage in regular mental exercises like Wordle, Spelling Bee or Connections are often better equipped to handle uncertainty, adapt to changing circumstances, and think on their feet.

6. They introduce new vocabulary words

Crossword puzzles often contain a wide range of vocabulary, subjects, and ideas challenging individuals to expand their mastery of all of these areas. A strong vocabulary provides leaders with the ability to communicate more effectively in both written and verbal forms.

In the business world, clear and concise communication is essential when pitching new business ideas, building a strong team, and resolving conflicts. By consistently solving crossword puzzles, individuals can improve their vocabulary and enhance their communication skills, leading to better problem-solving outcomes.

7. They have measurable cognitive benefits

There is scientific evidence supporting the value of puzzles and brain games for enhancing cognitive abilities, which can be particularly beneficial for leadership and business performance. For instance, a study published in PLOS ONE in 2022 found that brain training games significantly improved executive functions, working memory, and processing speed in healthy young adults. These cognitive skills are crucial for leaders who need to make quick decisions, adapt to new situations, and manage complex tasks efficiently.

Another study published in Heliyon in 2023 highlighted that puzzle games can significantly enhance memory and concentration levels in older adults, bringing their cognitive performance on par with younger individuals. This research supports the idea that regular engagement with brain games can maintain and even improve cognitive flexibility, a key attribute for effective leadership in dynamic environments.

An article in Psychology Today discusses how games, including crosswords, Sudoku, and logic puzzles, engage both imaginative association and memory and have long been suggested as a way to exercise the brain. These cognitive processes are essential for leaders, as they enhance the ability to see patterns, solve complex problems, and think outside the box. The article suggests that regularly engaging in such puzzles can improve mental agility, which is crucial for leaders who need to adapt to unexpected challenges and make quick, informed decisions.

These studies collectively underscore the value of brain games in bolstering the cognitive functions necessary for effective leadership.

Puzzle-solving is fun, but it also has serious benefits

While it may initially seem like a stretch to connect a daily Wordle, Spelling Bee or crossword habit to leadership prowess, the parallels are clear (as well as the research). Both require attention to detail, a willingness to explore different angles, and the ability to make connections that aren’t immediately obvious. So, the next time you find yourself stuck on a word puzzle, remember—you’re not just playing a game, you are training your brain to be a better, more effective leader.

About the Author

Dominique Harroch has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. Her background spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own startup, and marketing at various financial and retail companies. She can be reached via LinkedIn .

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The 10 Best Brain Games For Dogs
Each successful release is rewarded with a squeaky sound, providing immediate feedback and entertainment. Constructed from durable material, this dog brain game can handle the rigors of regular play and moderate chewing. Pros: Provides mental stimulation and enhances problem-solving skills; Durable construction to withstand moderate chewing
8 Brain Games for Dogs: Vet-Approved Fun & Stimulating Activities
The 8 Brain Games for Your Pup. 1. Hide and Seek. This classic game engages your dog's sense of smell and problem-solving skills. Start by hiding treats or toys (or yourself!) in various ...
10 great brain games for dogs
1. Find the treats. This game allows your dog to use their most powerful sense - their nose - and engages the parts of their brain used for sorting scents. "The length of time that this game takes will depend on how good your dog is, and over time they'll get better and better at it," says Godfrey.
10 Fun Brain Games For Dogs
The Shell Game. The shell game is another simple brain game for dogs. You've probably seen it before — it's the game where a treat is hidden under one cup (or shell) and then shuffled around. The shell game will give your plenty of mental stimulation by giving them a chance to work on their problem solving skills.
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Furthermore, they can help to improve problem-solving skills and boost confidence. Remember to supervise your dog when they are playing with a puzzle. Some puzzles have small pieces that can become a choking hazard if they are not used correctly. ... And while you can increase the difficulty of the game, your dog might never quite grasp it, so ...
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Take two opaque plastic cups and flip them upside down. With your dog watching, place a treat under one cup. Give your dog the cue to come turn over the cup and get the treat. Do this eight or 10 ...
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We are slightly obsessed with brain games at Practical Paw. Not only is teaching your dog something new fun. But problem-solving also gives your furry friend a mental workout that is at least, if not more efficient, at tiring them out than their regular walk.. Mental stimulation for dogs is as important as physical exercise.
Brain games for dogs
Brain games are great way to add some fun and stimulation into your dog's day and are also a great way to help strengthen your bond with your dog. Not only is it fun and interactive, but it also teaches your dog problem solving. A really simple game that will get your dog's brain and body moving is the treasure hunt.
Brain games for dogs: Benefits, DIY activities, and safety tips
Playing brain games with your dog helps develop problem-solving skills, reduces boredom, and improves independence. Dog owners look for ways to keep their pups mentally stimulated and engaged. While many people focus on physical activities like walks, runs, and fetch, it's equally important to challenge your dog's cognitive abilities.
Brain Games For Dogs: How To Keep Your Pup Mentally Stimulated
4. The Cup Game. This is the dog version of the old hustling cup game. It can help your dog develop problem-solving skills and is a great interactive game for you and your pup to do together. Get three plastic cups and some yummy-smelling treats; Line up the cups on the floor; Have your dog watch you as you place a treat under one of the cups
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Extended Benefit: Boosts your dog's problem-solving skills in a fun way. 8. Tug Of War. Tug of war is an entertaining game. After all, the mental stimulation delivered is identified to be primarily physical. ... With the learn-a-word game, the dog stays mentally stimulated while it expands its vocabulary. The more objects they can identify ...
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These activities promote mental agility, problem-solving skills, and memory retention. Furthermore, mental stimulation can enhance a dog's emotional well-being by reducing stress and anxiety, fostering a sense of fulfilment, and strengthening the bond between dogs and their owners through shared experiences. Tips For Introducing Brain-Teasing ...
Stimulate Your Dog's Mind: 10 Fun Brain Games for Dogs
Problem-solving: These toys require your dog to figure out how to access the treats, keeping them engaged. Variety: Choose different types of puzzles to vary the challenge level. 3. Shell Game. Use three cups or containers and place a treat under one while your dog watches:
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Brain games are specifically designed to challenge a dog's cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills. These games provide your dog with an opportunity to use their brain and think creatively, which can be incredibly rewarding for them. By engaging in brain games, dogs can release mental energy and improve their overall well-being.
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Brain games are puzzles, toys, and activities that encourage your dog to experiment and problem solve. They're great for dogs who have energy to burn and are especially helpful for dogs with anxiety or a high energy. Brain games should be used under direct supervision to prevent ingestion of any materials used to make the toys.
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The benefits of playing brain games go beyond having a tired dog at the end of the day; mental stimulation can help with behavior problemsas well as; Relieve boredom. Tire your dog. Increase your dog's confidence. Strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Help older dogs remain active. Invest a few minutes a day engaging your dog in a ...
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7 ways to provide mental stimulation for dogs: 1. Hide and Seek. One great way to boost your dog's problem solving skills is to play brain games like Hide and Seek. With this activity, you also get the opportunity to reinforce dog commands like 'wait' and 'come', as well as introduce new command words like 'find'.
10 Brain Games for Dogs to Keep Your Dog Mentally Stimulated
Brain games for dogs are activities designed to challenge and stimulate a dog's cognitive functions, a mental gym where your dog can flex their "brain muscles". Skip to content. Where the conversation is always wag-tastic. Dog HQ Menu Toggle. Dogs; Dog Behavior; Dog Help; Dog Training;
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Your dog is capable of learning his entire life, and by using brain training games that require problem-solving, you can help create positive emotions for your best friend and slow any mental deterioration. What's more, as your best furry friend gets older, it's a great way to challenge him without having to overly exert him physically.
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This game improves their problem-solving skills and agility while providing mental stimulation. Benefits of Dog Puzzles and Games. Incorporating dog puzzles and games into your pet's daily routine offers numerous benefits, promoting mental stimulation, physical exercise, and a strong bond between you and your furry companion. 1. Mental ...
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2. Problem-Solving Skills . Brain games encourage your dog's cognitive development by challenging him to solve problems and learn new skills. With each puzzle or game solved, your dog's confidence grows. Success in brain games can help him feel more confident and competent.
27 Fun Activities to Keep Your Dog Entertained Indoors
Here are 27 fun activities that will keep your dog entertained and happy, even inside the comfort of your home. 1. Interactive Puzzle Toys ... engaging their problem-solving skills. 22. Dog Puzzles.
12 Best Dog Puzzle Toys For Mental Stimulation
The LOOBANI Wooden Dog Puzzle Toy is great for testing your dog's intelligence and problem-solving skills. Made from durable, non-toxic wooden materials, this toy features either one or three bottles that your dog needs to tilt to release the treats from. You can choose between a small or large size, depending on your dog's breed.
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THE ORIGINAL RUBIK'S CUBE: A combination of math, art and science, the iconic Rubik's Cube challenges minds and problem-solving skills. The classic 3x3 is one of the world's best-known puzzles since 1980. TURN, TWIST & REPEAT: The Rubik's Cube features six different colored sides of nine squares each.
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The 2024 Paris Olympics marked breaking's debut as a sport at the global event, with 36-year-old lecturer and breaker Rachael "Raygun" Gunn representing Australia for the first time.
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This article, written for primary teachers, discusses what we mean by 'problem-solving skills' and draws attention to NRICH tasks which can help develop specific skills. list Trial and Improvement at KS1. Age. 5 to 7 ... NRICH is part of the family of activities in the ...
How Wordle And Other Games Can Improve Your Leadership Skills
They encourage creative problem-solving. The New York Times game Connections challenges players to find relationships between seemingly unrelated words. In this game, players are presented with a ...
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The Escape Game Opens in Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree, Colorado. Located in the heart of Lone Tree, Colorado, near Denver, The Escape Game's new addition offers a fresh opportunity for locals and visitors to dive into one-of-a-kind challenges that blend storytelling, problem-solving, and cutting-edge technology. Aug 19, 2024 5 min read
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8 Brain Games for Dogs: Vet-Approved Fun & Stimulating Activities

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