The Benefits of Mentally Challenging Your Pup With Interactive Dog Toys

Just as with humans, dogs require mental stimulation to keep them entertained, interested and away from disruptive behaviour. Without training for the brain and body, a dog can become easily bored, increasing the risk of behaviour that is destructive, unruly and sometimes even intimidating in certain situations.
For those owners who may have trouble keeping their dog in check, providing a pooch with both fun and challenging activities could cause a marked improvement in their pet's behaviour.
There are a number of benefits of integrating interactive dog toys into your routine, particularly if your pooch is easily stressed or anxious. Such playtime could teach your dog the focus and concentration it needs to be able to handle situations in a calmer manner.

Not all games require an owner to supervise, but spending time with your canine and helping them with challenges will create a stronger bond between both of you, promoting trust and confidence in each other. Mental stimulation is also linked to improved doggy sleeping habits, perhaps because they will be much happier and less stressed after having a mental distraction. It is important not to forget that dogs require problem solving skills as well, so using interactive and challenging toys is an ideal way of encouraging them to think.
There is an enormous range of interactive dog toys and games available and whether your dog is new to the idea of problem solving, or a master of this, you will find something on the market that will be perfectly targeted to your dog's ability.
One type of toys available to engage your pup is rubber dog toys. Some of these allow soft food or crunchy nibbles to be put inside, which your canine must then discover. This will keep your hound entertained for a while, so it is ideal if you can't be around to provide entertainment.

There is also a variety of boredom-busting puzzles available which require the completion of a simple task to uncover a tasty reward, or even dinner. In fact, dogs that tend to be difficult eaters may respond well to having to work for food because the challenge makes the reward much greater.
In many cases, interactive toys can be adjusted by the owner to increase the level of complexity as the dog progresses. When purchasing these toys, look out for the difficulty grading because this will be a good guide as to whether your dog will be able to manage. Of course, completing the puzzle should not be a walk in the park; your pup must work to get a reward, but similarly, if it is just too difficult then your dog will become demoralised, frustrated and will quickly lose interest.
The benefit of these types of games is proven, so even if your pooch struggles at first, it is worth persevering because the sense of achievement for both of you will be even greater. This sort of mental stimulation is beneficial for all dogs, from those whose behaviour is more disruptive, to those who are particularly shy. In one study focusing on timid dogs, it was shown that the successful use of interactive problem solving games caused an improved reaction when responding to stressful stimuli.
Dogs of all ages need to be mentally stimulated and by allowing the improvement of certain skills from a young age, their intellectual development will be much enhanced. What's more, dogs do enjoy it! Interactive games encourage focus, concentration, improved sleeping and reduced stress in addition to a wealth of other benefits. So, try using an interactive toy with your dog and see how well your furry friend responds.

Laura Smith is a partner in The Waggy Tails Store, which sells dog accessories online and at country shows. Waggy Tails stock a range of Nina Ottosson interactive dog puzzles, including the tornado interactive dog game and the spinny interactive dog game.