Mental enrichment is critical for your dog’s health to help release energy, learn more efficiently, decrease separation anxiety, and relieve boredom. Getting your dog mental enrichment doesn’t have to be difficult! There are many toys, games, and activities they can do that will keep them happy and entertained.

Mental Enrichment Toys

Mental enrichment is important for all stages of your dog’s life. Just like muscles, the brain also needs to be challenged frequently to avoid premature aging and can also help decrease aggressive behaviors in dogs caused by stress and boredom. Not only is it great for your dog’s health, mental stimulation helps strengthen the bond between you and your pet, creating lasting memories.

When you think of mental enrichment and stimulation, the KONG Classic is a staple. Offering enrichment by helping satisfy dogs’ instinctual needs, the KONG Classic’s unique natural red rubber formula is ultra-durable with an erratic bounce that is ideal for dogs that like to chew while also fulfilling a dog’s need to play. KONG can also help solve unwanted behaviors while keeping them engaged. Not to mention, it’s fun to spoil your dog and get creative with stuffing recipes!

Toys that can be stuffed like the KONG Goodie Ribbon make getting the nibbles out a mentally challenging puzzle for dogs. This brain stimulation keeps them eager to work to get the food out and tires them out, often warding out unwanted behaviors and boredom.

Treat dispensing toys can also dispense kibble and be used at mealtimes. The KONG Wobbler randomly dispenses treats or kibble as your dog moves it around.

Television & Media for Dogs

DOGTV is a 24/7 TV channel specifically designed by pet experts for your dogs to watch! Whether you are home or not, your dog will be easily entertained and mentally stimulated with a press of a button. This special content appeals to your dog’s senses, both sight, and sound. You can even use DOGTV in conjunction with another mentally stimulating toy when you leave to decrease changes of your dog getting separation anxiety.

Learn a New Trick

Teaching your dog new tricks is a great way to provide mental enrichment and bond with your dog. Dogs of all ages and backgrounds love to learn. Tricks give them a job to complete and get them excited. It can be a useful trick, like teaching your dog to walk next to you on a loose leash, or a fun trick like a high five! The more you teach them, the more they will learn. The more they learn, the happier your dog will be.

We hope these tips can help you bond with your dog while keeping them the happiest and healthiest they can be.