Want a happy and healthy dog? Trainer shares six cost-effective ways to keep your pup mentally stimulated

Disclaimer: Unless specifically stated, any expert comments quoted in this news piece have been taken directly from the video cited below.

If you've been pondering the question 'do dogs get bored?', the answer is...absolutely!

Just like any human or animal, our canine companions need plenty of mental and physical stimulation each week to ensure they stay fit and well.

Which is why learning how to play with a dog is so important.

While tossing a ball for your pup when you're out on a walk is certainly a legitimate way to exercise them, there are loads of other things you can do to add fun and variety into your dog's day.

Read on as expert trainer and behaviorist Louise Glazebrook reveals a few of her favorites...

"There's heaps of ways we can stimulate our dogs and pups," says Glazebrook. "Here's just a few examples for you to aim to include on a weekly basis..."

1. Food dispensing toys: Glazebrook says any puzzle toy where your dog has to work to release the food is great for providing stimulation and enrichment. However, she says it's important not to use these if your pup has resource guarding issues or is food frantic.

2. Scent work: "This is brilliant for dogs that were built to use their nose. It's also a great way to calm down and reduce stress for dogs. Every dog in the world can benefit from this," says Glazebrook.

3. Chewing activities: When it comes to stress relief, it's hard to go past chewing. Glazebrook says it's also a brilliant pain reliever and can help calm tired dogs down. Check out our guide to the best dog toys for inspiration.

4. Destruction: Yes, you read that right! According to Glazebrook, shredding, ripping and pulling apart all offer your pup great mental stimulation. "This is amazing for dogs who love to complete a job," she says. "Try not to worry about the mess, it can be tidied up after."

5. Problem solving: "Try a game or a task that your dog needs to use their skills to solve," suggests Glazebrook. "This will vary from dog to dog based on what they love to do."

6. Training: "Teaching your dog new things or ways of doing things or games is rewarding and trust building. Don't try to win them all, no one wants to play with someone who always wins!"

According to Glazebrook, variety is the spice of life and dogs love to mix things up just as much as we humans do — so if you want to banish boredom, letting your dog engage in one of the above activities each day is a great way to do that.