When Your Dog Is Bored
An under-stimulated dog can become restless, bark more, chew on things, or simply seem low and sad. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise – and the best part is that you can do a lot at home!
Here are seven simple activities you can try today.
1. Treat Search at Home
Hide dog treats around the room or in a blanket and let your dog use their nose. Great for scent work, focus, and confidence.
2. “Which Hand?”
Hide a treat in one hand and let your dog sniff and indicate which one. Simple nose games like this are perfect for curious dogs.
3. Balance Over Obstacles
Use a rolled-up yoga mat, blanket, or cushion as a little “obstacle” to walk over. Trains balance, concentration, and body awareness.
4. Teach a New Trick
Sit, down, spin, high five – or walk around a table. Trick training gives mental stimulation and strengthens your bond at the same time.
5. The Bottle Trick
Put a few treats in an empty plastic bottle (remove the cap and plastic ring) and let your dog roll it around and work to get them out. A simple, eco-friendly puzzle.
6. “Where’s the Toy?”
Place three cups upside down with a toy or treat under one of them. Let your dog figure out which one it’s under.
7. Towel Roll With Treats
Roll treats up in a towel or piece of fabric and tie it loosely. Your dog has to work to get them out – fun and challenging!
How to Make It Fun for Both You and Your Dog
Keep the sessions short and playful. Just 5–10 minutes at a time is plenty. And remember to adapt the games to your dog’s age, size, and personality.
A few small games every day can make a big difference to both your relationship and your dog’s wellbeing.
