Create an obstacle course
Play hide and seek
Take them swimming
Scavenger Hunt
Food puzzle toys
Tug of war or Fetch
Teach your dog to clean up their toys (this stimulates their brain too)
Teach your dog the names of their toys.
The Benefits of Keeping Your Dog Busy
Bored dogs get into trouble. We’re their main source of entertainment, so if we don’t give them stuff to do they’ll come up with activities of their own — and that’s when we end up with chewed up shoes and curtains.
By playing with your dog a few times a day you can decrease the likelihood of them developing destructive habits such as excessive barking or chewing.
There is a growing acceptance among scientists that play is very, very important and the type and frequency of play are a really good indicator of a dog’s quality of life. – Mark Evans, former RSPCA chief veterinarian