Dogs have complex psychological needs that require active enrichment to meet, with understimulated dogs developing anxiety, destructive behaviors, and reduced quality of life.
A physically exercised dog is not necessarily a mentally satisfied dog. Dogs need mental stimulation through training, scent work, novel experiences, and social interaction to maintain psychological health. The growth of canine enrichment research has provided evidence-based tools for meeting these needs. Owners who invest in mental enrichment alongside physical exercise provide significantly better welfare for their dogs.