Dogs are naturally curious and energetic animals; therefore, keeping them mentally and physically stimulated is vital for the happiness, health, and well-being of your furry friend on a daily basis. It encourages bonding opportunities between us owners and our pets while promoting social skills with others in public. What more could we want for our favourite companion?
Regular physical exercise strengthens muscles and supports cardiovascular health while maintaining a healthy weight—especially when we can’t resist giving our perfect pup an extra treat! Offering a variety of movements for your dog will keep them engaged and keep things interesting. The release of energy that accompanies exercise helps dogs burn off excess “zoomies” that can otherwise lead to destructive behaviours. As many dogs have a long lineage as hunting partners, herders, service animals, and war companions, having a purpose and day-to-day fulfilment is important to their health.
In addition, providing mentally stimulating activities like puzzles, training exercises, and scent games can reduce boredom and anxiety in your pup while at home. They’re less likely to develop behavioural issues like excessive barking, chewing, or digging if given proper brain games. It’s a win-win for both dogs and owners. We like to say that a well-stimulated dog is a happier and healthier one!
While You’re Away, the Dog Will Play!
If you’re looking for some fun and interesting activities for your doggo, there are a variety of engaging indoor activities to provide for them while you’re away from home. Interactive puzzle toys that dispense treats when solved keep dogs mentally stimulated and encourage problem-solving.
Give them some chew dog toys designed with long chewing sessions in mind, made from rubber, nylon, hard plastic, or layers of fabric with reinforced stitching. Or, try filling a Kong or similar toy with peanut butter or yoghurt for a tasty treat. Freezing it can make it last longer and provide a more engaging game for your dog!
Try hiding treats or toys around the house and let your dog sniff and discover them. This taps into their natural scavenging instincts and gives them an exciting game while you’re out and about.
Consider leaving them with an interactive pet camera that allows you to talk to them remotely or dispense treats from your phone. This is also a great way to keep an eye on them if they’re new to staying home alone. Leaving on soft music or a pet-friendly channel creates a soothing and comforting environment that makes your dog feel like you’re home. Make sure they have a comfy dog bed where they can take a snooze and feel cosy while you’re away. Discover some of our favourite styles here.
If you’ll be gone for an extended period, hiring a dog walker or sending your pup to a doggy daycare is a great way for them to spend their time. Social interaction and playtime with other dogs go a long way!
Outside Activities for You and Your Pooch
Options are endless when it comes to outdoor activities to share with your pup. Playing fetch or frisbee in the backyard or a nearby field lets your dog run and retrieve. Including a nearby dog neighbour or your bff’s dog is great for their socialisation as well.
Setting up an agility course with tunnels, cones, and jumps can be an entertaining backyard activity, while practising commands or tricks is a great way to work on training your dog. For fun, have them chase and pop pup-friendly bubbles or hide dog treats in your backyard, encouraging them to sniff and discover, tapping into their natural hunting instincts.
Exploring the outdoors is a wonderful way for you and your dog to adventure together and benefit their physical and mental well-being… as well as your own. You can explore local parks, trails, and hikes that are pet-friendly and suitable for your dog’s fitness level. Adding a dip in a nearby beach or lake is a way to beat the summertime heat, keeping a safe eye on them. If Fido has a lot of energy, taking them alongside you for a bike or jog can help them burn off energy. Consider bringing your dog on your next camping or glamping trip to bond and explore nature together! Snapping photos is a great way to capture memories and provide entertainment for both pet and owner.
Doggy Delicacies to Keep Your Pup Busy
Treats and treasure hunts are fun and interactive ways to support your dog's physical and mental health while providing a reward. Aussie pet treats, offering 100% high-protein, low-fat quality meat, are some of our favourite snacks to treat your dog, and they’ll love it. Duck jerky, chicken kebabs, sausage, meatballs, and liver bites are fan favourites. Stuffing them in a Kong, hiding them around the house, or putting them in a treat-dispensing bowl are a few ways to engage your pup.
Conclusion
There’s a reason why we call our loyal, loving, and trusted dogs “man’s best friend”. Our unique relationships with our pets provide unconditional love, companionship, and emotional connection for both parties. Stimulating games, outdoor adventures, and reward-focused training are just a few activities that greatly benefit your dog’s physical and mental well-being, including reducing anxiety, boredom, and destructive behaviour. With a bit of thought and planning, your dog will be living its happiest, healthiest, and most fulfilling life. We invite you to explore our collection of dog treats, beds, and more pet supplies at our shop.