How to Mentally Tire Your Dog Out in 15 Minutes

We all know a tired dog is a happy dog — but physical exercise isn’t the only way to get there. Mental enrichment can actually wear your dog out faster than a long walk, and the best part? You only need 15 minutes.

Here are some quick, brain-busting games to try today:

• The Muffin Tin Game – Place treats in a muffin tin and cover each spot with tennis balls. Your dog has to sniff, nudge, and strategize to get the prize.

• DIY Snuffle Box – Toss kibble or treats into a box filled with crumpled paper, toilet paper rolls, or towels. It’s a cheap and fun way to encourage natural foraging.

• Name Game – Start teaching your dog the names of their toys. Ask them to “find ball” or “get bunny.” It’s surprisingly tiring for their brain!

• Hide & Seek – Hide yourself or treats around the house and let your dog use their nose to track you down.

• Training Sprints – A quick 15-minute session of practicing cues (sit, down, spin, touch) is just as exhausting as a long play session.

Pro Tip: Combine mental work with a chew afterward — it’s like giving your dog dessert after a brainy main course.

Fifteen minutes may not sound like much, but to your dog, it’s a mental marathon. You’ll have a calmer, more content pup — and maybe even a quiet evening for yourself.