Engage your dog's brain with fun puzzles!

We have all certainly heard the well-known phrase, “A good Lab is a tired Lab” - but we don’t always take into account the fact that it is equally important to consider more than just the physical aspect of exercising our beloved dog(s). Engaging your dog’s mind is just as crucial, and it can be a fantastic way to help them achieve that desirable level of tiredness! One of the enjoyable ways I have found to effectively engage puppies in essential mental stimulation is through the thoughtful use of puzzles. Over the past 15 years, dog puzzles have flooded the market in a wide variety of styles and types, and my absolute favorites are the innovative ones produced by Outward Hound in collaboration with the exceptionally talented creator, Nina Ottosson. I typically use the smaller Level 1 toys with our puppies to introduce them to these challenges, but recently, I have also begun to integrate more advanced puzzle toys to keep our playful puppy, Evvy, both entertained and intellectually challenged as she continues to grow and explore the world around her.

The video below demonstrates the Bone Tornado treat puzzle. Evvy is very bright and like most Labs, must have a job to do. The puzzles are a saving grace when it’s raining or snowing or we have 60 mph winds. They are great inside fun.