When it comes to cognitive skills such as reading, writing, or performing arithmetic, the phrase, “Use it or lose it!” comes to mind. Science tells us that to keep your brain executing tasks efficiently, humans must stimulate their mind to keep those mental processes sharp.  

Our four-legged friends aren’t much different! According to Dr. Karen O'Connor, Regional Veterinary Medical Director at NewDay Veterinary Care + Pet Paradise, “Dogs need to be mentally challenged to keep their skills sharp and prevent cognitive decline as they age. Brain health is just as important for pets as it is for humans in maintaining their overall well-being.” 

However, activities that promote healthy brain development in pets need to be suited for their abilities and needs. Keep reading to learn more about how mental stimulation for dogs improves their quality of life and how to incorporate best practices at home! 

Importance for Mental Stimulation for Dogs 

Brain health for dogs doesn’t just mean they can perform cool tricks on command — it impacts their behavior and well-being over the course of their lives. A healthy brain for your four-legged friend ensures that:

• Cognitive functioning is supported, meaning they can adapt to new situations, learn, and remember cues more efficiently.
• Problem behaviors are reduced. Bored dogs find entertainment in barking, chewing furniture, and other destructive behaviors — so finding a positive outlet for their energy benefits you just as much as it does them.
• Their emotional well-being is healthy. Science proves a more stimulated brain promotes a calmer, mentally balanced dog.
• Confidence is boosted. When pups are able to learn a trick or solve a problem, they feel more self-assured when they encounter a change in routine or environment. 

More importantly, consistent mental stimulation for dogs over the course of their lifetimes lessens their risk of developing Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. This disease is similar to dementia in humans and increases in likelihood as pets age. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, approximately 14–22.5% of dogs older than 8 years-old suffer from age-related cognitive impairment. Helping your pet to maintain their brain health as they age is critical for their long-term well-being.      

How Mental and Physical Exercise Work Together 

Although mental and physical activities are different, they both complement each other. Physical exercise releases positive brain chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin, which boosts your pet’s mood while reducing stress. Additionally, cardiovascular activity increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, resulting in clearer thinking and faster learning.  

Both types of exercise are crucial outlets for your pet’s energy. Limited physical activity can cause your dog to be restless and hyperactive, while a lack of mental stimulation in dogs can cause them to turn to destructive behaviors as a form of entertainment. Finding the right balance of activities based on your pet’s breed, age, and ability level is key in ensuring your pet’s health is well-balanced!  

Brain Game Ideas 

There are several activities to promote mental stimulation in dogs as well as physical fitness, such as:

• Obstacle courses: Set up cones, cushions, or other household items to create a DIY agility challenge.
• Scent work: Teach your dog to hunt down a scent, such as a treat or a caffeine-free herbal tea bag! Hide the item in easier places at first, gradually increasing the difficulty of the location.
• Food puzzle toys: Snuffle Mats, treat-dispensing balls, and Kong stuffing toys are all great ways to encourage your pet’s problem- solving skills.
• Trick learning and training: Dog training involving verbal commands and hand cues keeps your dog learning. 

While many of these activities can be done at home, training is made more effective with the help of a Certified Dog Trainer. Learn more about our Board-and-Train program at Pet Paradise, which is the perfect way to increase their physical and mental skills!  

How to Keep Games Safe + Enriching 

Having both a safe and enriching time is important when finding ways to increase mental stimulation in dogs. When determining the difficulty level of an activity, make sure to keep your pet’s abilities in mind. If activities are too easy, they’ll lose interest. However, activities that are too difficult can cause your pet to become frustrated or stressed. Swapping out toys and tasks every few days will help keep the novelty fresh and your dog engaged. 

As with any activity, supervising your pet’s play is crucial in maintaining their safety. Not only can you guide them if they need assistance, but you can also keep an eye on them while they engage with toys.  

Promote Mental Stimulation in Dogs and See Results!

Ensuring your pet’s overall well-being is just as much about their brain health as their physical health. As long as they regularly use their thinking skills and explore new things to learn, you’ll help them maintain cognitive functioning throughout their lifetime. Find an activity, play group, or puzzle they love most and watch them build both confidence and good behavior!