Five strategies to keep your dog cognitively engaged

Dogs are susceptible to mental health conditions including anxiety and depression just as people are. Lack of mental stimulation in dogs is one factor contributing to their declining mental health. Dogs who are lonely or bored may become aggressive or engage in harmful behavior. It’s as crucial to provide your dog with cerebral stimulation as it is to arrange walks and other physical activities for them. There are many methods to keep your pet interested. Here are several strategies to improve your pet’s mental health and long-term enjoyment, from breaking in new skills to going on trips with them.

“Providing mental stimulation for your dog is just as important as maintaining their physical well-being when it comes to caring for your cherished friend. Our furry companions’ mental health may be improved in a variety of ways, according to Dr. Umesh Kallahali, Small Animal Consultant at Mars Petcare India.

These are some pointers for pet owners on how to be responsible guardians and make sure their furry friends are happy and healthy.

SUGGESTIONS TO MAINTAIN YOUR PET MENTALLY ENGAGED 1. Pets and playthings
Dogs really love playing with toys, particularly when those items provide a mental challenge. Interactive toys and puzzle feeders are great ways to keep your dog engaged and cognitively challenged. To guarantee the safety of your dog and cat, make sure the toys you purchase are made of safe materials. To make sure your pet plays safely and enjoys themselves, always keep a watch on them.

2. Engaging in playful activities with your animals
Having fun and spending quality time with your pet are important aspects of developing a stronger relationship. Taking your dogs on walks may be made more enjoyable by engaging them in games like hide-and-seek or treasure hunts. Play shouldn’t become too rough, however, since this might unintentionally encourage your dog to act in a manner that other people could find inappropriate in the future. Avoid giving your dogs any stones to play with, particularly if they are young since this might shatter their teeth.

3. Taking your pet on a trip
It’s difficult to go without your pet, particularly when they give you that gloomy look. If you want to travel with your pet, be sure you are prepared to care for them and provide for their requirements while in transit. Certain hotels even provide extra services to cater to dogs. Make sure you and your pet are ready for the travel in advance to guarantee a seamless and joyful experience. Make sure the hotels you choose are pet-friendly and provide additional amenities for your pets. Keep packaged pet food on hand to make sure your pet is getting enough nourishment.

4. Getting to know friends and other animals
It’s critical that your dog interacts with other animals and forms friendships. Engaging with other people and animals, whether at puppy school, puppy school, the neighborhood, parks, or the countryside, makes your dog feel more at ease and content with a variety of animals and people.

5. Acquiring new skills and training in agility
Introduce agility training and new skills to your dog to keep their mind active. This improves the link between you and your beloved buddy while also keeping them cognitively engaged. It’s an enjoyable method to keep children interested, challenged, and moving.