Enrichment Ideas for Your Dog: How to Mentally Stimulate a Dog

"A tired dog is a good dog," the saying goes—but let’s be real, it’s not just about physical energy. Mental stimulation plays a massive role in your dog’s overall happiness and wellbeing. In fact, researchers have found that cognitive enrichment can help reduce anxiety and destructive behaviour in dogs (source). As a greyhound mum to Pepper myself, I know how quickly a clever hound can become bored—and when boredom hits, so does the mischief. 🐾

Thankfully, there are simple ways to add enrichment to your pup’s daily routine without running yourself ragged. Whether you’re a pet parent to a greyhound, whippet, or Italian greyhound, these enrichment ideas will help answer the common questions: “How to mentally stimulate a dog?” and “What are good enrichment activities for dogs?”

Why Enrichment Matters

Enrichment isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. Greyhounds, whippets, and Italian greyhounds are incredibly intelligent, sensitive breeds that thrive on mental challenges. Not only does enrichment help prevent behavioural issues, it also supports their emotional health.

Greyhounds, for example, are known for their calm temperament and long naps. But beneath that relaxed exterior lies a sharp mind. You can learn more about their needs in our Greyhound Pet Profile. Likewise, whippets and Italian greyhounds—each with their unique quirks—benefit hugely from stimulating activities. Explore more about them in our Whippet Pet Profile and Italian Greyhound Pet Profile.

Food-Based Enrichment

Let’s start with the easiest win: food! Swapping out your dog’s bowl for a food puzzle or snuffle mat can transform mealtime into a brain-boosting activity.

• Kongs and lick mats: Stuff with plain Greek yoghurt, soft fruit or peanut butter (xylitol-free, of course).
• Scatter feeding: Toss kibble around the garden or living room and let your dog sniff it out.
• DIY puzzles: Hide treats in rolled-up towels or cardboard boxes.

Interactive Play

Dogs aren’t just food-motivated—they love to play. Rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh. Try:

• Hide and seek: You or a favourite toy. It’s simple and brilliant.
• Tug and fetch: Especially great for breeds like whippets who love to chase.
• Name games: Teach your pup the names of their toys and ask them to find them. It’s a lot of fun once they get it!

Sensory Stimulation

Sight hounds like greyhounds and whippets are naturally visual, so sensory enrichment can be powerful.

• Take different walking routes or change the direction of your regular walk.
• Offer new surfaces to walk on—grass, sand, gravel.
• Use scents like lavender or rosemary to introduce new smells in a calm environment.

Training & Learning

Short, daily training sessions are a brilliant way to engage your dog’s mind. You don’t need to teach them complex tricks—start with basics like sit, stay, or touch. Then level up to targeting, spin, or even nosework. Just 5–10 minutes a day can work wonders.

Calming Enrichment

Not all enrichment needs to be high energy. Calming activities are just as important for sensitive breeds like Italian greyhounds. Consider:

• Chews and bones: Great for focus and reducing stress.
• Slow strolls: Let your dog sniff to their heart’s content.
• Dog-friendly music or audiobooks: Especially soothing during downtime or while you’re out.

Daily Routine

Building enrichment into your daily rhythm helps your dog feel secure and engaged. Try adding one or two enrichment activities each day—nothing complicated, just intentional.

And when you're heading out on those sniff-heavy walks, a martingale collar is a great tool for gentle control without pressure on their necks, especially for slender breeds like greyhounds and whippets.

Wellness & Health

While we’re on the topic of stimulation and wellbeing, it’s worth mentioning that sighthounds—especially greyhounds—can live for 10 to 14 years when well cared for. However, they can be prone to specific health concerns like dental sensitivity and joint stiffness. Gentle mental activities can help balance physical demands while still supporting overall health.

Always check with your vet before introducing something new if your pup has special needs or underlying health issues.

Where to Next?

If you’re looking to add something special to your enrichment toolkit, browse our range of greyhound collars, whippet collars, and Italian greyhound collars. A well-fitted collar and a little creativity go a long way in supporting your hound’s happiness.

So, go on—try a new game, a new walk, or a new scent. Your hound will thank you with those big loving eyes and a tail wag that says, “That was pawsome.”