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How to tire out a dog indoors
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Brain Training for Dogs
A course of structured brain games for indoor days, according to the vendor.
Twelve ideas
- Scatter feeding
- Find-it around the house
- Snuffle mat
- Frozen stuffed chew
- Cardboard shred box (supervised)
- Tug with “drop” breaks
- Trick training: spin, paw, bow
- Hand targeting
- Stair work (for healthy adult dogs)
- Cushion obstacle course
- Name-the-toy
- Muffin-tin puzzle
Plan a rainy day
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Scatter-feed breakfast + short wet walk |
| Midday | 10 min trick training |
| Afternoon | Frozen chew while you work |
| Evening | Find-it game, then calm settle |
Brain Training for Dogs
A course of structured brain games for indoor days, according to the vendor.
Don’t forget rest
Adult dogs sleep a large part of the day; over-stimulation can make dogs wired. End sessions with a chew and a quiet settle.
More games
Our 10 mental stimulation games go deeper.
Common questions
Does mental stimulation tire dogs out?
Yes, sniffing and problem-solving are tiring, which is why short sessions work.
How much exercise does a dog need?
It varies by breed, age and health; ask your vet for your dog.
Is tug bad for dogs?
No, played with rules (start, drop, stop) it’s a great outlet.
What we’d look at next
Brain Training for Dogs
A course of structured brain games for indoor days, according to the vendor.
Secrets to Dog Training
Training basics to use in short indoor sessions.
Not sure which fits? Take the 30-second quiz or see our comparisons.
Related comparisons: Brain Training for Dogs vs Secrets to Dog Training · Best online guides for pet behaviour problems
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Get the free PDF
A short PDF: seven short, reward-based training sessions to build focus, a reliable sit, settling on a mat and loose-lead basics, plus a cat litter-tray checklist.