Depending on the breed, brain games are a great way to help your dog adjust to time alone or an unfamiliar routine,
like a change in work schedule or leaving the house more often than usual.
Blue Barn carries a wide arrange of fun puzzle products that can be delivered right to your door or curbside pick-up.

While you wait for those amazing games to arrive, here are some tips to help you get inspired…

• Skip the Ol’food dish and switch it for a muffin tin.
• Divide the kibble into each of the cups and watch your pup eat slowly and stay interested in dinner time.
• Instead of kibble, you could substitute peanut butter or wet food in the tin for a fun and fresh treat.

For dogs who need extra play…

• Find an old cotton shirt, or tea towel (something that will not have any lint or loose fibers)
• Cut it into 1″ strips and tie the strips together to form a long rope.

You can use this to stuff into your pet’s favorite hollow toy or a plastic bottle.
It’s great for dogs who like to rip out the stuffing and run! (Keep Pet supervised while playing)

Maybe your dog enjoys a nice massage. Depending on your dog’s tolerance, starting with your fingertips in small slow circular motions, start in the areas your pets like the most. Your furry friend will let you know what he likes.  Speak softly and gently and remember, this isn’t a deep tissue physio visit, it’s just a nice gentle connection with your pet. Keep in mind that the pace and pressure can have multiple effects. An enthusiastic rub in sporadic places is more likely to get your dog ready to play, while a slow targeted rub is like a mini spa day for your pup. This could get them ready for that extra nap while you head off for work.

No matter which way you and your pet choose to play, whether it’s brain games, fetch, chase, or cuddles, remember to have fun and stay safe.