Keeping a dog mentally stimulated is important. If we don’t pay enough attention to our dogs’ minds, they often become bored or start misbehaving, and their mental health can quickly deteriorate. To avoid these problems, here are 5 quick tips to challenge your dog’s brainpower and turn him into a genius!

1) Go off the Beaten Path

Yes, literally, walk your dog on new routes every once in a while. If you take your dog on walks using the same path each and every day, he’s missing opportunities to come across anything new. But don’t limit this philosophy to walks; expand it to all areas of your dog’s life. Teach your dog a new skill, let him sniff new places, or try taking part in a doggy sport. Keep your dog’s environment full of new and exciting things, and offer him plenty of opportunities to use his brain.

2) Hide Your Dog’s Toys

Dogs can be quite determined when it comes to getting the things they want, so why not use this to put their brains to work? If your dog wants a toy, try placing it under a laundry basket or hiding it under a blanket (making sure he sees you put it there). Then, sit back and watch him use his problem-solving skills to try and get it. When he solves the puzzle, praise him just as he reaches for the toy.

If your dog struggles or gets frustrated, make the exercise easier at first, and then gradually make it harder and harder over time.

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