{"id":1248,"date":"2022-01-31T10:33:02","date_gmt":"2022-01-31T15:33:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sitmeanssit.com\/dog-training-mu\/knoxville-dog-training\/?p=1248"},"modified":"2024-07-29T19:58:09","modified_gmt":"2024-07-29T23:58:09","slug":"keeping-your-senior-dog-mentally-sharp","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sitmeanssit.com\/dog-training-mu\/knoxville-dog-training\/keeping-your-senior-dog-mentally-sharp\/","title":{"rendered":"Keeping Your Senior Dog Mentally Sharp"},"content":{"rendered":"

Aging is a natural, bittersweet process that happens to everyone, even your dog. As you age, it’s essential to maintain healthy functions by exercising parts of your body that you might not have previously paid attention to. For dogs, this can mean keeping a sharp mind, which you can do in several ways.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brain Food<\/b><\/h3>\n

With science being as advanced as it is, tons of food formulas<\/a> out there can be used for different things. Some recipes are suitable for their coat, and others are better for their joint health. As you shop for brain food, look for ingredients like vitamin C, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. These ingredients are considered excellent for elderly dogs. If you’d like more suggestions, don’t be afraid to have your vet recommend food for you.<\/span><\/p>\n

Memorization Games<\/b><\/h3>\n

Memorization games are a great way to flex your dog’s brain muscles and keep them fit for a long time to come. Sit your dog down and name their toys. Start with their favorite and train them to recognize which is which until they know them all by name. Think of it as basic brain training. You can move on after that to include games like hot-and-cold.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Physical Activity<\/b><\/h3>\n

Believe it or not, physical activity is one of the best ways to help your dog’s mind. The body is connected, so if one part is off, the whole thing comes down. Keeping a consistent exercise schedule<\/a>, even through old age, can help your dog get enough oxygen and chemicals to their brain. This, in turn, keeps them mentally sharper than a tack.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fun Games<\/b><\/h3>\n

When the family plays together, try to include your dog. Playing games like hide and seek can help them keep their hunting skills intact. Not only that, but it allows them to maintain their sense of hearing, smell, and sight. Have them find you, or have them find a treat or toy that you hide around the house. It’s a fun game for everyone. If your family enjoys a friendly game of tag or keep-away, try to include them in that as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

Toys for the senses<\/b><\/h3>\n

Tough toys can be rough on the senses and cause a lot of pain to your dog’s old bones. Aim for softer toys on the jaw and can stimulate their brain. Snuffle mats are a great combination of both and can keep your dog entertained for hours. Alternatively, try a toy that acts like a puzzle<\/a>. Fill it with snacks, and have your dog try getting it out of the toy.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Aging is a natural, bittersweet process that happens to everyone, even your dog. As you age, it’s essential to maintain healthy functions by exercising parts of your body that you might not have previously paid attention to. For dogs, this can mean keeping a sharp mind, which you can do in several ways. Brain Food…<\/p>\n

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