Ask the Trainer: Dogs need stimulation

I have had many clients lately who are struggling with destructive or attention-seeking dog behaviours. Both of these occur when dogs are under-stimulated.

The problem is work commitments often prevent us from being able to redirect this behaviour so I have a few tips that can be easily introduced to your routine to help release some of your dog's pent-up energy while you are away at work.

1 - Feed your dog's breakfast meal (or evening meal depending on when you feed) not in a bowl but scattered over the lawn. This will stimulate your dog's sense of smell and allow them to "work" for their meal in a controlled hunting scenario which satisfies their prey drive instinct.

2 - Freeze pet mince in a durable toy such as the Kong brand and leave your dog at home happily enjoying a doggy ice block. Licking and chewing create relaxation and your dog will likely doze contentedly once they have their fill.

3 - Spend 10 minutes running through a few commands before you leave for work, even if your dog is fully trained; this exercise is a great way to use some of your dog's mental energy which they need to release so they do not become "bored" and redirect to destructive behaviours.

4 - Introduce puzzle toys which your dog needs to work on to receive food rewards; there are ball types which when moved drop treats, through to more difficult types which require moving sliding compartments to get the food out.

5 - If you have diggers, invest in a sandpit and teach them to dig in this area. Digging is very instinctive in some breeds and is a force not to be reckoned with in some cases, so save the lawn and satisfy both the physical and mental needs of your dog.

6 - Don't have the same toys available all the time, swap them round to keep your dog interested in what's on offer - they need to be more interesting than the drywall at the end of the day.

7 - Throw your morning coffee in a thermal mug and head out for a quick 15- to 20-minute leash walk. You can spend time after work or on the weekends on longer walks or off-leash adventures when you are not stressed about getting to work on time.

By introducing a few of these tips you will find that your dog will have more content down-time after their mental work-out getting ready for your return.

Paw point of the week

A mentally stimulated dog equals a tired dog. A tired dog equals a content dog. A content dog equals an intact home.

Contact me for the chance to have your question selected for publication at nadines@dogguru.co.nz or for further information on Dog Guru visit www.dogguru.co.nz.