How to keep a senior dog mentally stimulated

How can I keep my elderly dog mentally stimulated as they age?

As Maximus has entered his senior years, I noticed how his energy and habits shifted, but his spark for life remained. Keeping an elderly dog mentally stimulated should become a priority to ensure they stay happy and engaged, even as their body slows down. I’ve learned that simple, thoughtful activities can make a big difference in supporting their cognitive health and overall well-being.

Drawing from my own experiences and tips from others, he are some things that brought joy to my furry companion.

Keeping your senior dog stimulated

Making sure your elderly dog is mentally stimulated is crucial for their cognitive health and overall well-being.

Scent games

Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell, which often remains sharp even in old age. Hide treats or favorite toys around the house or yard in easy-to-reach places. Start with simple hiding spots and guide them if needed. You can also use a snuffle mat, sprinkling kibble or treats in it to encourage sniffing and foraging.

A snuffle mat is a pet enrichment toy, typically made of fabric strips or fleece tied to a base, designed to stimulate a dog’s natural foraging instincts. Dogs use their noses to search for treats or kibble hidden within the mat, providing mental stimulation and slowing down eating.

I never knew what a snuffle mat was, but I was using a dog bed with long frilly fibers. One day, I had spilled some of his and Lady Midnight’s morsels all over the mat when I noticed that he enjoyed searching for the kibble that was buried in the mat.

You can also try using puzzle toys and interactive feeders. Use puzzle toys designed for dogs, such as treat-dispensing balls or puzzle boards. Choose ones with larger pieces or simpler mechanisms to accommodate for any vision or movement limitations. A Kong Classic filled with soft food (like pumpkin or wet dog food) can keep them engaged without being too challenging. Remember, what one dog likes, another may be indifferent to. Maximus couldn’t care less about Kongs, but Lady Midnight loves them.

Another option is to scatter kibble in the grass or on a textured surface for them to find. You can also freeze low-sodium broth or wet food in a dish for them to lick, which is both mentally engaging and soothing.

Keep in mind that these mentally stimulating food games are good for dogs of all ages. If you have a bored dog or have a dog that gets separation anxiety, consider some of these games. Just remember, if you have a chewer or a puppy, some toys with smaller breakable parts may not be suitable.

Social interaction

Arrange calm playdates with familiar dogs or people, if your dog enjoys company. Even short, positive interactions with you, like gentle petting while talking to them, can provide mental stimulation.

Sensory enrichment

Stimulate their senses with new experiences. Play calming music, introduce new textures (like a soft blanket or grass under their paws), or let them explore safe household items (e.g., a cardboard box with treats inside). Rotate toys weekly to keep things fresh.

Training refreshers

Revisit basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “come” to keep their brain active. Introduce new, low-effort tricks, such as “paw” or “spin,” if they’re physically able.

Keep sessions short (5-10 minutes) to avoid fatigue, and use high-value treats to maintain interest.

Gentle exploration

If your dog is mobile, take short, slow walks to new areas or let them sniff at their own pace in a familiar park. For less mobile dogs, carry them to a new spot in the yard or use a pet stroller to provide new sights and smells.

In the end…

Watching a senior dog light up during a scent game or a gentle stroll will remind you how much these small moments matter. By adding in activities like puzzle toys, sensory enrichment, or even revisiting old tricks, we can keep our aging companions mentally sharp and deeply content. It’s a rewarding way to give back to the dog who’s given us so much love over the years.