As the spread of COVID-19 jumps from country to country and state to state, we are asked to do our part and self-quarantine. This current state of life has forced many of us to adapt our daily routines, to working from home and homeschool the kids. But this also has an impact on our four-legged companions too.
Daily walks and exercise are a crucial part of our dogs’ lives, so when your dogs’ walks get shortened, or the usual round of fetch is no longer possible, it’s reasonable to see some changes in your dog’s behavior.
So, how do you keep your dog occupied while attending that important video conference? To name a few, a frozen kong, a game of tug of war, and hall ball are all easy ways to alleviate some of your dog’s pent up energy. But just as the Coronavirus is unpredictable, it’s unknown when we will be released back to normalcy, so you may need a few next-level activities to help your dog through quarantine.
7 ways to keep your dog’s brain stimulated and sharp during quarantine
1. Brush up on some old tricks. If it’s been a while since you last asked your dog to roll over, a quick refresher course is a great place to start. Or, if you are short on time between meetings, 5 minutes of games can go a long way for your dog’s brain. So, grab some treats and a positive attitude and let the games begin.
2. Play Find It with treats. Your dog’s walk isn’t just giving them exercise, because of their powerful sense of smell the opportunity to sniff around is extremely stimulating for them. So, replace the scents of the outdoors by hiding treats around your home and let them use their nose in a game of Find It.
3. Teach your dog a new trick. Teaching your dog new tricks is a great way to give them mental stimulation while also strengthening the bond between you and your four-legged companion. Plus, the more you teach them, the quicker they will learn new tricks.
TIP #1: When teaching your dog a new trick, be patient, and always reward them in a positive way.
4. Play Hide & Seek. Yes, every 5-year-olds favorite game of Hide & Seek is loaded with powerful befits for your dog. On top of it being both a mental and physical stimulant that helps enforce the SIT, STAY, and COME cues, it teaches your dog problem-solving skills along the way.
5. Create an obstacle course. Using everyday household items, create a miniature obstacle course in your home, have your dog jump over the broomstick, take a toy from point A to B, and finish with a sit on a blanket. Use your imagination and build on tricks your dog already knows.
TIP #2: Got kids stuck at home? Challenge them with a different kind of homework assignment to teach the dog a new trick.
6. Work on impulse control. Teach your dog impulse control and help them learn how to wait patiently for things they want. So, when it’s time for that 3:00 pm meeting with your boss, Fido knows how to wait.
7. Learn how to give your dog a massage. This is an enriching practice for both human and canine with fantastic benefits that can help calm and soothe any dog in addition to reduce anxiety and stress. And for those higher energy dogs who have a hard time settling down, teaching them to relax for a massage is just another way for them to practice impulse control.
While taking ‘Shelter In Place’ measures, many of us are learning how to adjust our lives and routines and maybe even juggle the kids at home, but don’t forget about your dog’s needs. Spend 15 minutes a day doing an enriching activity with your dog, and by the time we are released to normal civilization, your dog will come out with better behavior and some new tricks to show off to his friends at the dog park.