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Keeping Your Dog Happy, Stimulated, and Out of Trouble

Let’s face it, some dogs hate the rain, life gets busy and we sometimes get ill, so you need something to plug the gap if your walk has been a little shorter than normal to cut down on boredom, frustration, and unwanted behaviours at home.

 

Here are some simple, effective ways to keep your dog's brain engaged.

 

1. Food Puzzle Toys & DIY Challenges

 

Turn mealtime into a brain workout.

  • Use puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys
  • Scatter kibble in a snuffle mat or rolled-up towel
  • Try a muffin tin game (treats hidden under tennis balls)
  • Fill a box with dog-safe (and clean!) things from your recycling bin. Put some treats at the bottom for them to find.

 

Dogs naturally love to forage. This taps into their instincts and slows down fast eaters.

 

2. Scent Games (A favourite for most Dogs)

 

Your dog’s nose is incredibly powerful, so use it!

  • Hide treats around the house and encourage them to “find it”
  • Start easy (visible spots), then build difficulty
  • Hide a favourite toy and make it a game
  • Teach them to associate the smell of a spice (cloves?) with getting a treat. Add some cloves to your key ring to make finding your keys rewarding.

 

This is especially great for high-energy dogs as well as those bred for hunting or scentwork.

 

3. Short Training Sessions

 

Short regular training sessions are perfect for engagement and fun.

  • Practice basics: sit, stay, recall, watch me, touch, wait
  • Teach tricks: paw, spin, crawl, wave or “tidy up toys”
  • Keep sessions short and positive

 

Training provides structure, builds focus, and strengthens your bond.

 

4. Interactive Play

 

Not all exercise needs to happen outside.

  • Indoor fetch using a soft toy
  • “Find it” games around the house
  • Hide and seek

 

Use play as a reward during training to keep things engaging.

 

5. Long-Lasting Chews & Lick Mats

 

Sometimes calm enrichment is just what your dog needs.

  • Stuff a Kong with wet food, fish, vegetable puree or dog safe peanut butter (xylitol-free). Freeze it for a longer-lasting challenge
  • Lick mats to promote calm behaviour
  • Natural chews that are the correct size and hardness for your dog - we don't want any choking or broken teeth.

 

Great for helping dogs settle when there is a lot going on.

 

6. Create a Mini Obstacle Course

 

Turn your garden or living room into a training playground.

  • Use cushions, chairs, blankets, brooms, logs...
  • Guide your dog over, under, and around objects, including yourself
  • Add commands like “wait,” “slow,” or “through”
  • Make sure they cannot collapse or fall on your dog

 

Builds confidence and body awareness, especially helpful for young or nervous dogs.

 

Don’t Skip Enrichment—Even on Wet Days

It’s easy to think all dogs need are walks, fuss and food, but mental stimulation is essential for your dog’s wellbeing. Even a few minutes of enrichment everyday can make a huge difference.

 

From Our Training Club to You

At Marlow Dog Training Club, we always encourage owners to think beyond physical exercise to help you develop a well rounded dog who is fun to be around.

 

Got a favourite enrichment activity your dog loves? Share it with us—we’d love to hear!