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10 mental stimulation games for dogs you can play at home
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Brain Training for Dogs
A whole course of structured brain games, according to the vendor, if you want a plan rather than ad-hoc ideas.
Why mental exercise matters
Sniffing, problem-solving and learning use a lot of energy. Many bored dogs chew, bark or dig because they get plenty of walking but little to think about. Mental games are also ideal for puppies, older dogs and dogs on restricted exercise.
Ten games
- Find it: toss a treat, say "find it", build up to hiding treats around a room.
- The cup game: a treat under one of three cups.
- Snuffle mat or a rolled towel with kibble inside.
- Box puzzle: treats inside scrunched paper in a cardboard box.
- Hide-and-seek with a family member.
- Name the toy: teach names for two toys, then ask for one.
- Frozen stuffed chew: soaked kibble frozen in a rubber toy.
- Hand target: nose to palm for a reward.
- Mini obstacle course: over a broom, under a chair, round a cone.
- Which hand? Your dog chooses the hand holding the treat.
Brain Training for Dogs
A whole course of structured brain games, according to the vendor, if you want a plan rather than ad-hoc ideas.
Keeping it fair
Use part of your dog’s daily food allowance so you don’t overfeed. Keep sessions short, stop while your dog is still keen, and supervise anything made of cardboard or fabric.
Common questions
How long should brain games last?
Five to fifteen minutes is plenty for most dogs. Several short sessions beat one long one.
Do brain games replace walks?
No. They add to walks. Dogs still need physical exercise suited to their age and breed.
Are puzzle toys good for dogs?
Yes, if they’re the right difficulty and your dog is supervised until you know they won’t chew the toy itself.
What we’d look at next
Brain Training for Dogs
A whole course of structured brain games, according to the vendor, if you want a plan rather than ad-hoc ideas.
Not sure which fits? Take the 30-second quiz or see our comparisons.
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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.