Welcome to Brilliant Nose

Reward-based, scientifically backed training for happy dogs & lasting bonds

About Brilliant Nose

Brilliant Nose provides dogs and dog owners with reward-based, scientifically backed methods to ensure happy dogs and lasting bonds.

At Brilliant Nose, a holistic view of dog training is embraced, focusing on understanding why a dog behaves a certain way. Understanding the reasons behind a dog's actions helps provide the right care and support, while just focusing on the symptoms, ignoring behavior or using force can lead to stress, harm, untreated medical issues, or anxiety.

Certified dog instructor and dog behaviour analyst via Glada Jyckar. Member of Sveriges Hundföretagare.

How it Works

FIRST CALL

We'll start with a video call where I'll ask about your goals, motivation and current situation.

TRAINING

After our initial call, we'll meet up for the first training session and get started.

CUSTOMIZED PLAN

You'll receive a customized presentation with relevant exercises tailored to you and your dog's needs.

CONTINUOUS SUPPORT

If you want, we can create a WhatsApp group for ongoing support between sessions.

Training Services And Fees

At Brilliant Nose, I offer personalized dog training services tailored to meet the unique needs of each dog and owner. While I mainly provide private sessions, I am happy to create custom group courses if you want to bring a few friends and their dogs together for a customized training sessions.

I offer sessions in Swedish and in English.

Pawsitive Start: Private Session for Puppies

Getting a new fluffy family member is amazing, but it's not always a walk in the park (pun intended). Puppies need to sleep, get socialized, be potty trained, learn to stop biting, walk on a leash, come when called, and much more. This course covers the basic needs of your puppy and provides the tools to foster a great relationship with your new family member.

This course can be customized if your puppy will be living in the city. If your dog is over 6 months, check out the "Excited Paws: Private Training for Teenagers" instead.

BOOK

OFFER:

Initial Call: Free

1 Session: 800kr | 3 Sessions: 2000kr | 5 Sessions: 3000kr

*Please note that the prices apply within the inner city of Stockholm

Excited Paws: Private Session for Teenagers

Teenage dogs can be a handful, full of energy and curiosity. This course is designed to help you navigate this challenging but rewarding stage. We will focus on reinforcing basic signals, improving leash walking, and working on your dog coming when called. Additionally, we'll introduce fun and engaging exercises to keep your adolescent dog mentally stimulated. This course aims to build a strong foundation for a balanced and happy adult dog.

This course can also be customized if your teenager is living in the city. If your dog is over 2 years, check out the "Everyday Activation Course" instead.

BOOK

OFFER:

Initial Call: Free

1 Session: 800kr | 3 Sessions: 2000kr | 5 Sessions: 3000kr

*Please note that the prices apply within the inner city of Stockholm

Happy Paws: Private Sessions for Adult Dogs

Do you want your adult dog to learn how to walk on a leash, come when called, stay put, and have fun together? Then this is the course for you.

We will cover the basics of dog behavior and learn easy and fun exercises to achieve the desired behavior.

We'll also discuss the importance of daily mental activity and enrichment, and go over suitable daily activities for your dog.

BOOK

OFFER:

Initial Call: Free

1 Session: 800kr | 3 Sessions: 2000kr | 5 Sessions: 3000kr

Please note that the prices apply within the inner city of Stockholm

Brilliant Nose: A Fun Private Mental Activation Session

A fun one-off session where your dog gets to use their brilliant nose to solve problems and smell interesting things.

Nose activation exercises can help tire your dog out in a good way and for example decrease pulling on the leash. This course will cover fun and easy nose activation exercises that your dog will love, both at home and on your daily walks.

You'll get lots of ideas on how to activate your dog's brilliant sense of smell.

BOOK

OFFER:

Initial Call: Free

Price per Session: 600kr

Please note that the prices apply within the inner city of Stockholm

Urban Paws: Private City Dog Training

Do you and your dog live in the city? This course is designed for you and your urban dog. City environments present unique challenges for dogs, such as dealing with e-bikes, skateboards and crowded spaces.

In this course, your dog will learn to navigate the bustling city life with confidence and calm. We will cover essential skills like staying focused amidst distractions, safely navigating crowded areas, and calmly encountering various urban stimuli.

The goal is to ensure your dog is comfortable in an urban setting, making city living enjoyable for both of you.

BOOK

OFFER:

Initial Call: Free

1 Session: 800kr | 3 Sessions: 2000kr | 5 Sessions: 3000kr

Please note that the prices apply within the inner city of Stockholm

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Behavior Problems Analysis

Sometimes, our dogs struggle in ways we don’t fully understand—barking excessively, acting anxious, showing aggression, or simply not listening. It’s not about being “bad”—it’s about communication. Every behavior has a reason, and we’re here to help you uncover it.

Our behavior analysis service is designed to gently and thoroughly assess what’s really going on with your dog. By looking at their environment, triggers, and emotional state, we can hopefully find the “why” behind their actions and create a plan to help them feel calmer, more secure, and more connected to you.

Let’s work together to find the answers. Reach out today to start your journey toward a happier, more balanced dog.

BOOK

OFFER:

Initial Call: Free

1 Session: 800kr | 3 Sessions: 2000kr | 5 Sessions: 3000kr

Please note that the prices apply within the inner city of Stockholm

Testimonials & Success Stories

Sophie & Harris

Attended Puppy Course

This course gave my puppy and I an amazing start! Clear, fun, and effective training. Highly recommend!

Pernilla & Bruno

Attended Mental Activation Course

Got excellent advice to keep my high-energy dog mentally stimulated and engaged every day in a way that fits our schedule!

Amanda & Laban

Attended City Dog Course

Received great advice on handling dog encounters, loud noises, and busy streets. My pup is now more confident and relaxed in the city.

Blog Hub

Advice for City Dogs: Essential Skills for Urban Life

City life can be overwhelming for dogs—crowds, traffic, and unpredictable encounters require smart handling. Here are essential skills to...

Brilliant Nose

Nov 4, 20243 min read

Mental Activation is Crucial for Dogs

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for dogs. A lack of mental engagement can lead to boredom, frustration, and...

Brilliant Nose

Nov 4, 20242 min read

Why Positive Reinforcement is Key

Training your dog is about building trust, confidence, and a strong bond. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through...

Brilliant Nose

Nov 4, 20242 min read

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For almost 50 years, research has consistently demonstrated that positive reinforcement is the most effective and ethical approach to dog training. Yet, the myth of the "alpha dog" and dominance-based methods still persists.

🤔 But where did this idea come from?

In the 1930s, Swiss animal behaviorist Rudolph Schenkel studied wolves living in captivity. He observed that unrelated wolves, forced to live together, often fought for control. From this, he concluded that wolves have a strict hierarchy with a dominant "alpha" pair leading the pack. He explained this idea in his 1947 paper, Expressions Studies on Wolves [1].

Later, wildlife biologist L. David Mech helped spread this idea in his 1970 book, The Wolf: Ecology and Behavior of an Endangered Species [2].

However, after many years of studying wild wolves, Mech changed his view. He found that wolves in the wild do not fight for dominance. Instead, they live in family groups, with parents naturally leading their young, rather than competing for power [3].

Even though the "alpha" theory was proven wrong, many dog trainers continued using dominance-based training, believing that dogs need a strong leader.

However, research shows that this method can be harmful. It can cause fear, anxiety, and mistrust in dogs. [4]

On the other hand, positive reinforcement is a training method that encourages desired behaviors by rewarding them, rather than punishing unwanted ones. Rewards can include treats, praise, toys, or playtime, reinforcing (what humans consider) good behavior in a way dogs understand and enjoy. Research shows that this approach builds trust, strengthens the human-dog bond, and helps dogs feel more confident and happy, making them more likely to repeat positive behaviors [4,5,6,7].

❓So, what can you do to help debunk the myth?

Share Knowledge Gently – Many who use alpha methods don’t mean harm. Educate with kindness, not judgment.

Lead by Example – Demonstrate how positive reinforcement is more effective and builds a relationship based on trust.

Use Science-Based Resources – Share studies and expert opinions to support your points.

📚 Sources in comments (suggest more sources if you like)

Stuff a "Hol-ee Roller" ball with wool and let your dog explore it 🐾

🐕 Great for dogs who love ripping things!
🌬 Use it outside—the wool has a strong smell!

Why enrichment matters: Dogs need more than just physical exercise—mental stimulation helps prevent boredom, stress, and destructive behavior. Simple activities like this tap into their natural instincts and keep them happy, engaged, and balanced!

#dogenrichment #dogmentalstimulation

🧩🐶 Time to review some more puzzles from @nina_ottosson!

👍 We really liked the ‘Tornado’ and ‘Challenge Slider’ because they have multiple compartments, making them more challenging and engaging for the puppy. They also work well for serving a full meal.

🏆 Final scores:

Tornado - Level 2 = 8/10
Challenge Slider - Level 3 = 8/10
Twister - Level 3 = 7/10
Multipuzzle - Level 4 = 7/10

(Scores are based on one individual dog and will vary depending on the dog’s experience and learning progress.)

This review isn't sponsored—it’s just genuine puzzle love. ❤️

Some general puzzle advice 👇
🧠 Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for your dog's well-being. A simple way to add daily mental enrichment is by serving your dog's food in a puzzle instead of a bowl. This makes mealtime more fun and engaging!

⚖️ Balance is key: Help a bit, but not too much. Keep it challenging enough for a mental workout without causing frustration.

🚨 Plastic puzzles are durable, but watch out for curious nibblers—puzzles are for solving, not chewing!

🔇 For a quieter experience, we typically use puzzles on a carpet to ensure stability and prevent any unsettling sounds on hard floors.

🧩🌍 Eco-friendly tip: Consider swapping puzzles with friends or buying second-hand puzzles to give them a new life!

#dogpuzzle #mentalstimulationfordogs

Got some empty paper rolls lying around? Why not turn them into quick, fun challenges for your dog? These simple ideas take no time to set up and add excitement to your dog's day — plus, they can even double as mealtime activities!

Ensure the difficulty is balanced: it should be stimulating enough to challenge without causing frustration.

🎲 Serve Meals Creatively
Place kibble or treats inside a paper roll and fold the ends to seal it. Let your dog figure out how to get their meal!

📦 Box of Fun
Take a few paper rolls, scatter some treats inside, and place them in a shallow box. Your pup will love digging around to solve the challenge!

🧵 String Surprise
Thread a few paper rolls onto a string, hiding treats inside each one. Hang it low enough for your dog to reach and let them work out how to get the goodies.

🌳 Outdoor Adventure
Fill rolls with treats, then hide them in the yard or around the house. Encourage your dog to sniff and track them down.

#dogmentalstimulation #DIYdogtoys #dogactivity #dogenrichment

We tried nosework for the first time, and it was such a fun and rewarding experience 🎉

Here’s why we loved it:

🧠 Mental enrichment is just as important as daily walks and physical exercise to keep dogs happy and balanced.

👃 Nosework engages their natural instincts, challenging their amazing sense of smell to find hidden scents.

🐾 It’s a great way to build focus and confidence while having fun together.

Big thanks to Malin from @malinkadogs for the fantastic course!

#Nosework #DogTraining #mentalstimulationfordogs #DogEnrichment

🧩🐶 As today turned out to be a rainy summer’s day - we’re taking the time to review a few puzzels. This time from @nina_ottosson

👍 We really liked “Dog Brick - Level 2” as it has a lot of compartments that need to be solved in different ways. It is also the puzzle that is the easiest to be creative with, like freezing dog ice cream in the compartments for longer puzzle time. It is also the best option for serving a full meal in.

🏆 The final scores are as follows:
Dog Brick - Level 2 = 8/10
Dog Hide'n Slide - Level 2 = 7/10
Dog Smart - Level 1 = 6/10
Dog Casino - Level 3 = 6/10

(The scores are based on one individual and will vary depending on the dog.)

This review isn't sponsored; it's just genuine puzzle love.

Some general puzzle advice👇

🧠 Remember that mental stimulation is as vital as physical exercise for your dog's well-being. An easy way to incorporate more daily mental stimulation is to serve your dog's food in a puzzle instead of a bowl. It will make mealtime more fun and stimulating for your furry friend!

⚖️ Balance is Key: Help a bit, but not too much. Keep it challenging for a mental workout but without frustration.

🚨 Plastic puzzles might be durable, but keep an eye out for curious nibblers. Puzzle, not chew toy!

🔇 We typically engage in puzzles on a carpet to guarantee stability and eliminate any potential unsettling sounds from the puzzle on hard floors.

🧩🌍 For a more eco-friendly twist, consider sharing the puzzle with friends by swapping puzzles or opting for a second-hand puzzle to give it new life!

#dogpuzzle #mentalstimulationfordogs

We just tried out this water fountain from @dogmansverige 🐶💦

Safety first 👉 Never leave your dog unattended while using the water fountain.

What we liked:
✔️ Cooling Down: Perfect for those hot summer days!
✔️ Fun & Mental Activation: It's a fun activity that stimulates your dog's mind
✔️ Hydration: Ensures your dog has plenty of water to drink while playing

Risks we saw:
❌ Stressful Play: Like chasing a ball, this toy can become stressful for some dogs, even if they seem to enjoy it. Keep an eye on their body language and check for signs of stress and/or frustration.
❌ Fear: Some dogs might be scared of the water spraying out. Introduce it slowly, depending on your dog's personality.
❌ Overdrinking: Watch out for your dog drinking too much water.
❌ Water Temperature: Make sure the water is not too hot, especially if the hose has been lying in the sun.
❌ Water Safety: Always ensure the water is safe and clean for your dog to drink.
❌ Risk of Paw Injury: Be cautious of your dog’s paws getting caught in the water fountain. Ensure it's set up safely. ⚠️

Alternative Option: If your dog doesn’t take to the fountain, consider investing in a dog pool instead. It can provide similar benefits with a different approach.

Happy splashing 💦🐾

#DogFun #CoolingDown #DogHydration #PetSafety #DogPool #SummerWithDogs #HappyPup

Trying out @lickimat 🐶

Why use a LickiMat? There are several reasons:

🥵 Cool Treats for Hot Days: Freeze some dog-safe liquid or soft food on a LickiMat for a refreshing treat that will help keep your pup cool during warm summer days.

❤️ Calming Effect: Licking can have a calming effect on dogs. If your dog gets anxious in certain situations a LickiMat can help soothe them.

🧠 Enrichment Activity: You can be creative and freeze a bunch of different flavors on the LickiMat, turning it into an enrichment activity that keeps your dog engaged and excited to try new tastes.

We tried several types of LickiMats and found a winner: the LickiMat UFO!

#DogCare #PetHealth #DogTraining #CalmDogs #SummerTreats #HappyPups #PetTips #DogLife #EnrichmentForDogs

🐶 Trying some liquid food dispensers for dogs 🍬

Why use a liquid food dispenser? There are several reasons:

Health Issues: If your dog has health issues that make it difficult to eat solid food, a liquid food dispenser can be a lifesaver.

Training Purposes: These dispensers are great for training, providing a convenient and quick way to reward your dog.

Calming Effect: Licking can have a calming effect on dogs. If your dog gets anxious in certain situations, like car rides, a liquid food dispenser can help soothe them.

We tried three types of liquid food dispensers and found the clear winner: the reusable food bag! 🌟 It's portable, mess-free, and easy to use, making it perfect for on-the-go dog owners.

#DogCare #PetHealth #DogTraining #CalmDogs #TravelWithDogs #HappyPups #PetTips #DogLife

❓Why should you always care about WHY a dog is acting a certain way?

✅ Because by understanding the reasons behind their behavior, it becomes possible for you to give them the right care and support.

🚫 Ignoring a behavior, using forceful methods, or only focusing on training the dog to stop could, for example, result in stress, physical harm, untreated medical issues, or persistent anxiety.

Source: VanFleet, R. (2012). The Human Half of Dog Training. Dogwise Publishing. Wenatchee.

Diving Into the World of Snuffle Toys Part 1: Our Take on the Snuffle Ball ⚽️👃

👍 What we love about the snuffle ball:
Engagement -This snuffle ball captivated him for over 15 minutes.
Mental Workout - The complexity of solving the snuffle ball provided a robust mental exercise.

👎 A few considerations:
Cleaning Challenges -The snuffle ball can be a bit tricky to clean thoroughly.
Supervision Required - For those with dogs who love to chew (or rip things apart), it's crucial to supervise playtime.

🏆 Our Verdict: We’re giving the snuffle ball a commendable 9/10. It's a great addition to our dog’s snuffle toy collection, providing both mental and physical stimulation.

This review is fueled by our love for innovative dog toys – no sponsorship here, just pure dog toy passion.

Some general snuffle tips👇

🧠 Mental Equals Physical: Never underestimate the power of mental exercise. Integrating snuffle toys like the snuffle ball into your dog's routine can make mealtimes an adventure and keep their minds sharp.

⚖️ Finding the Sweet Spot: Encourage your dog, but let them lead the discovery process. It’s about striking the right balance between challenge and fun.

🚨 Safety First: Always monitor your dog with new toys and puzzles, especially if they’re known to chew.

🧩🌍 Eco-Friendly Play: Swapping snuffle toys with friends or opting for pre-loved items can reduce waste and keep the snuffle toy excitement alive.

#snuffleball #mentalstimulationfordogs

🎵🐾 Just wrapped up “Tematräff - Prova på Freestyle” at @karmahundcenter 🐶🎶

Starting from scratch with Freestyle was truly a test for us, yet we managed to pick up some new skills, enhance our teamwork, improved our communication, and the best part - we had a lot of fun 🥰

Massive thanks to Anahita at @karmahundcenter for all the great tips and support 😍

Highly recommend trying this with your dog 🐩💃

Giving your dog a "Rip & Reward Box" can significantly enhance their daily routine by:

🧠 providing mental stimulation
🐾 satisfying natural instincts to dig and tear
😁 promoting dental health through the act of ripping
💪 encouraging physical exercise to burn off excess energy
❤️ strengthening the bond between you and your pet through interactive play

Some things to think about👇
1. Choose boxes made from non-toxic, dog-safe materials.
2. Always supervise your dog during play to prevent any accidents.
3. Avoid boxes with small parts that could be swallowed.
4. Ensure treats inside are suitable for your dog’s diet to avoid overfeeding or allergies.
5. Watch for signs of overexcitement or frustration and be ready to help your dog out.
6. Ensure the box's materials are not too hard to avoid dental damage.
7. The box and its components should be the right size for your dog to safely interact with.

#RipAndRewardBox #MentalStimulationForDogs #DogPuzzleToys #EcoFriendlyPets

Trying some stuffable dog toys 🐶🍖🧩

Why?
Food enrichment for dogs involves adding variety and complexity to their feeding routine, aiming to improve their quality of life by stimulating their senses, enhancing their diet, and encouraging natural behaviors such as foraging and problem-solving.

What did we try?
Honey Pot from @sodapupdogtoys
Yoggie Pot from @lickimat
Classic Kong by @kongcompany Size M
Tux by @westpawus
Small Zogoflex Toppl by @westpawus

Even though we liked all of these, most of them were a bit too big for a dog his size 🙈 Thus the winner became “Small Zogoflex Toppl by West Paw” 🏆

Pro tip 👉 Always have a couple of these toys ready in the freezer. They’re perfect for those moments when you or your pup need a quick, calming break ❄️🐶

A little word of caution - supervision is key, especially for our enthusiastic chewers or those who might find the challenge a tad frustrating. It's all about ensuring it's a fun and relaxing time for your dog 🚨❤️

This review isn't sponsored.

#dogenrichment #mentalstimulation #dogtoyreview

Portable Enrichment Kit for Dogs 🐩

What is enrichment?
Enrichment is an essential part of dog care, as it addresses the innate needs and behaviors of dogs, promoting a balanced and happy life.

This kit focuses on letting dogs experience exciting smells and interesting textures!

A MASSIVE thank you to the best test panel ever 👇
Alice & Lydia - @cavalierflickorna
Isa - @marie.fogelberg
Blanca - @life.with.a.rescue

Material used:
Vegan friendly synthetic scents and material from @tjappo.se
Recycled plastic containers from Clas Ohlson
Aluminum containers with lid from Tingstad
Custom stickers ordered via StickerApp
Labels made with “Brother P-touch Cube”

Quick but Important Note 📝
This experience should be 100% voluntary for your dog. Also, keep in mind that dogs may react differently to scents; some may be cautious, while others are more adventurous. It's recommended to use this outside and not in your dog's home.

Want to let your dog make use of their brilliant nose? 🕵️‍♂️🐕 Here's a quick guide on how you can get started with creating a simple trail 🐾🐾🐾

1️⃣ Prepare Your Dog
Have your dog sit and stay.

2️⃣ Mark the Starting Point
Walk about two meters away from your dog and use e.g. a stick to mark the starting point of the track.
At this starting marker, place a few treats on the ground and lightly shuffle your feet to mix the scent of the treats with the ground and your scent.

3️⃣ Lay the Treat Trail
Place a treat directly in front of you and step on it lightly, embedding its scent into the ground. Then, place another treat in front of the first, stepping on it as well.
Continue this process, creating a trail of treats for about 50 meters. To make it more challenging as you go, you can reduce the frequency of treats to one treat every three steps.

4️⃣ Mark the End Point
At the end of your trail, place another stick to mark the finish. Surround this marker with a few treats and shuffle your feet to create a scent pool, similar to the starting point.

5️⃣ Release Your Dog to Follow the Trail
Lead your dog to the starting stick. Give the signal "track" to signal them to begin following the trail.
Allow your dog to move at their own pace, encouraging them as they pick up and follow the scent.

Tips for Success:
👉 Keep the initial trails short and simple to build your dog’s confidence.
👉 Gradually increase the complexity of the trails by adding more distance, changing the terrain, or reducing the number of treats.
👉 Always praise your dog at the end of the trail, regardless of their success rate, to keep the activity enjoyable and rewarding.

Eager to discover more? Signing up for an introductory session is a great step forward. We took a great course led by Monica from @gladajyckar Jyckar!

(Disclaimer: This video is for general inspiration only. Do not attempt without first consulting a veterinarian and/or a licensed dog physiotherapist to assess your dog's suitability).

🙏 A massive thank you to Camilla at @svansibalans for an awesome session! We had fun, learned a lot and got a new physical routine to do at home a few times a week.

🙌 HIGHLY recommend scheduling a checkup with Camilla, even if your dog hasn't shown any changes in their movement patterns.

Benefits of Physiotherapy 👉 Beyond aiding recovery, it's an exceptional preventive tool. Regular physiotherapy exercises are essential for maintaining your dog’s overall well-being and ensuring they stay a step ahead in health.

Benefits of Balance Training 👉 Balance exercises are an excellent way to strengthen muscles, improve coordination, and enhance focus. They're also great for boosting your dog’s confidence.

Last but definitely not least 👉 Engaging in activities with your dog is not only fun but also fosters a strong bond 🙌🐾

#PhysiotherapyForDogs #ConfidenceBuilding #PreventiveHealth #BalanceTraining #DogWellness

🧩🐶 Here is another dog puzzle test - the third one out. This time we try out four different puzzles from @trixie.se

Three of the four reviewed puzzles are modular and can be combined in new and exciting ways for varied challenges.

👍 We liked “Turn Around” as it is quite different from other puzzles we have tried (make sure they alternate paw if they use it often). We also liked all pieces of “Poker Box 1”, and we also like that it has bigger compartments, making the puzzle easy to use during mealtimes.

👎 We didn’t like one of the two pieces of “Poker Box Vario” as it could be solved by "cheating." The same issue occurred with one of the pieces of “Poker Box 2”. Additionally, one of the pieces of “Poker Box 2” was very fragile and broke the first time we used it.

🏆 The final scores are as follows:
Turn Around = 7/10
Poker Box 1 = 7/10
Poker Box 2 = 6/10
Poker Box Vario = 4/10

This review isn't sponsored; it's just genuine puzzle love.

Some general puzzle advice👇

🧠 Remember that mental stimulation is as vital as physical exercise for your dog's well-being. An easy way to incorporate more daily mental stimulation is to serve your dog's food in a puzzle instead of a bowl. It will make mealtime more fun and stimulating for your furry friend!

⚖️ Balance is Key: Help a bit, but not too much. Keep it challenging for a mental workout but without frustration.

🚨 Plastic puzzles might be durable, but keep an eye out for curious nibblers. Puzzle, not chew toy!

🔇 We typically engage in puzzles on a carpet to guarantee stability and eliminate any potential unsettling sounds from the puzzle on hard floors.

🧩🌍 For a more eco-friendly twist, consider sharing the puzzle with friends by swapping puzzles or opting for a second-hand puzzle to give it new life!

#dogpuzzle #mentalstimulationfordogs

“Mentally stimulate your dog each day, to keep the problem behavior away! 🐾✨” -

Ok, so it’s not always that easy, but making sure that your dog gets some daily mental stimulation is a good place to start when you want to have a happy and balanced dog 🐕🧠

Most people know that dogs need food and walks every day. However, it’s equally important that they get mentally stimulated. Fifteen minutes of mental stimulation will also make a dog more tired than a short fifteen-minute walk 🥏🚶‍♂️

For example, if you have a dog who gets very excited when going on a walk, try mentally stimulating the dog before the walk, so that they can get rid of some excess energy before going out 🤔🐶

Mental stimulation activities can be searching for treats or objects, solving a problem, improving body balance, or learning a new trick 🕵️‍♀️🎓

If you haven’t been mentally stimulating your dog, start with 15 min per day and see what happens 🕒👀

🧩🐶 Let’s try another dog puzzle - second one out #busteractivitymat

👍 We appreciate the #busteractivitymat for its modular design, allowing us to switch combinations for varied challenges. The quality of the parts impresses us, and we enjoy that certain pieces remain challenging even after extended use. We also liked that he has to engage with his entire body to solve the puzzle.

👎 One drawback is that the puzzle is a bit challenging to clean. Additionally, for dog owners with chew-prone pets, it is essential to keep a close eye on the puzzle pieces during use to ensure they remain intact.

🏆After careful consideration, we've rated this puzzle a solid 8.5/10.

This review isn't sponsored; it's just genuine puzzle love.

Some general puzzle advice👇

🧠 Remember that mental stimulation is as vital as physical exercise for your dog's well-being. An easy way to incorporate more daily mental stimulation is to serve your dog's food in a puzzle instead of a bowl. It will make mealtime more fun and stimulating for your furry friend!

⚖️ Balance is Key: Help a bit, but not too much. Keep it challenging for a mental workout but without frustration.

🚨 Plastic puzzles might be durable, but keep an eye out for curious nibblers. Puzzle, not chew toy!

🔇 We typically engage in puzzles on a carpet to guarantee stability and eliminate any potential unsettling sounds from the puzzle on hard floors.

🧩🌍 For a more eco-friendly twist, consider sharing the puzzle with friends by swapping puzzles or opting for a second-hand puzzle to give it new life!

#dogpuzzle #mentalstimulationfordogs

🧩🐶 Let’s try some dog puzzles - first out @pawzler

👍 We appreciate the modular design that allows us to create new combinations and challenges every time. Cleanup is easy as it is dishwasher-safe.

👎 Don’t handle the pieces too roughly – I accidentally broke one while trying to push it onto the base.

🏆 We would also like to see trickier pieces, but overall, Pawzler earns a solid 8.5/10 in our book.

This review isn't sponsored; it's just genuine puzzle love.

Some general puzzle advice👇

🧠 Remember that mental stimulation is as vital as physical exercise for your dog's well-being. An easy way to incorporate more daily mental stimulation is to serve your dog's food in a puzzle instead of a bowl. It will make mealtime more fun and stimulating for your furry friend!

⚖️ Balance is Key: Help a bit, but not too much. Keep it challenging for a mental workout but without frustration.

🚨 Plastic puzzles might be durable, but keep an eye out for curious nibblers. Puzzle, not chew toy!

🔇 We typically engage in puzzles on a carpet to guarantee stability and eliminate any potential unsettling sounds from the puzzle on hard floors.

🧩🌍 For a more eco-friendly twist, consider sharing the puzzle with friends by swapping puzzles or opting for a second-hand puzzle to give it new life!

#dogpuzzle #mentalstimulationfordogs

We tried a scent enrichment package 👃❤️🐩

As most people know, dogs have an incredible sense of smell. However, they often miss out on the richness of scents in their daily lives. Hence scent enrichment is one of the keys to letting dogs be dogs 🐾

Here are a few of the MANY reasons why scent enrichment matters👇

Natural Instincts - Scent activities tap into dogs' instincts, reducing boredom and stress.
Mental Stimulation - It's like a mental workout, keeping their brains sharp.
Bonding Time -Sharing in their scent adventures strengthens your bond.

@tjappo.se 's scent enrichment package was AWESOME 😍 It included a variety of synthetic scents, from prey animals to predators and had several vegan-friendly options. (Shoutout to @sofieeisraelsson for the tip 🙌)

Quick Note 📝
Dogs may react differently to scents; some may be cautious, while others are more adventurous.
Use outside!

Enhance your dog's life with scent enrichment and watch them thrive 🎉

#scentenrichment #dogenrichment #dogenrichmentideas

🐶 If your dog doesn't like chew bones or dental sticks, has allergies, or needs to lose weight, then chew roots or chew sticks from coffee wood or olive tree could be the ideal option. They could also be an alternative for dogs who like to chew on “regular” sticks as they don’t post the same risk of splinters, choking hazards, and more.

🦷 Why is it important for dogs to have access to things to chew on? Chewing is not just a pastime for dogs; it's essential for their overall well-being. Chewing on appropriate items can:
* Help clean their teeth and gums, reducing the risk of dental issues.
* Alleviate stress and anxiety, providing mental stimulation.
* Keep them engaged and prevent boredom-related behaviors.

However, ALWAYS supervise your dog during chew time to ensure their safety 🐩

#DogSafety #Chewroots #ChewSticks #PetCare"

Planning a trip with your canine companion or visiting a restaurant? 🐶🍽️ Don't forget to bring a small snuffle mat! 🐾 This engaging toy can help your dog rewind and then relax 😌

What's a Snuffle Mat?
A snuffle mat is a dog toy that stimulates your pup's natural foraging instincts 🐕 It's a soft mat with pockets for hiding treats. Dogs use their noses to find the goodies.

Why Bring It?
- Mental Stimulation: Keep your dog mentally engaged, reducing anxiety 🧠
- Relaxation: The calming effect of snuffling helps your dog unwind 😴
- Distraction: If your dog doesn't like being on a bus or at a restaurant, the snuffle mat can distract them from discomfort. 🚌🏨 However, a long-term training plan using positive reinforcement to make them comfortable in these situations should be in place 🐾🏆

How to Use It:
- Pack It: Don't forget your dog's snuffle mat and treats 🎒🦴
- Supervise: Always watch your dog to ensure safe play 👀🐕
- Regular Sessions: Offer snuffle breaks to keep your dog happy and relaxed 🕐🐶

A snuffle mat is a simple yet effective way to ensure your dog's comfort and enjoyment 🛳️🌟

Feeling bored with your daily dog walks? Time to spice things up and make them paws-itively exciting! Here's why adding fun activities to your walks is a game-changer:

Exercise 🏃‍♂️: Turn exercise into play with fetch, races, or games. Keep your dog and yourself in tip-top shape.

Mental Stimulation 🧠: Engage your dog's mind with puzzles and tricks during walks. A smart dog is a happy dog!

Bonding 🤗: Play games like tug-of-war to strengthen your bond. Shared joy = stronger connection.

Socialization 🐕🐾: Let your dog interact with others for social skills. Well-adjusted pups make happy owners.

Behavior 🐶🛠️: Fun activities curb boredom, reducing destructive behaviors.

Variety 🌟: Keep things fresh with new toys and routes.

Pure Happiness 😄: The ultimate benefit is a happier, healthier dog. Who can resist that tail-wagging joy?

👉Which one fits best?

(Disclaimer: This post consists of my opinions and should not be considered as advice/facts as I am not a trained dog physiotherapist/veterinarian/ethologist, or similar)

Since we live in the city, unfortunately, there are times when I have to pull my dog away from something. For example, last week, a bicycle came speeding out of a corner, ran a red light, and almost hit us 😱 Therefore, a harness feels like a better option for us to hopefully reduce the risk of tracheal collapse/neck injuries/whiplash injuries, etc.

📝 Our wish list includes:
1. Good fit (preferably a Y-harness)
2. The harness should not be too tight behind the front legs
3. Free movement around the front legs and shoulders
4. The harness should not be made of material that's too stiff
5. It should not slide to the side so that one side of the harness on the chest goes against the inside of the front leg
6. The part of the harness that sits on the chest between the front legs should not be too wide, causing chafing on the inside of the front legs
7. The attachment on the back should not lie directly on his back
8. He should be able to sniff without any pressure on his throat due to a too high neck line
9. "Step-in" so he doesn't have to put his head through
10. “Fitting adjustment attachments” are in the right places
11. Reflective details

Attachment point for mild anti-pull control is not something that we use so it did not impact the grading, even though it can be a useful tool to manage pulling behaviour. However, it's important to remember that they are not a substitute for proper “loose-leash training” using positive reinforcement training techniques.

🏆Here is our top list of the ones we've tried that I think fit best on his body type and best meet the wish list.
1. @nonstopdogwear - Line Harness 👉10/11
2. @trixie.se - Premium Padded Y-Harness👉9/11
3. @dogcopenhagen Comfort Walk Air™ Sele 👉9/11
4. Woolly Wolf Woodland Harness 👉 7/11
5. Hunter Dog Harness Comfort Hilo 👉 6/11
6. Tre Ponti Harness Mesh👉 6/11
7. Curli Clasp Step-in Sele 👉 5/11
8. Gustav Evita Sele 👉 5/11

#dogharness #dogharnesses

🎵🐾 Just wrapped up “Kom igång med Heelwork to Music” online challenge organized by @kompishundtraning 🐶🎶

Since we are complete beginners to HtM it was a real challenge, but we learned new tricks, improved communication between us, and most importantly, had a lot of fun together 🥰

Highly recommend trying it with your dog! 🕺💃

There are no silver bullets when it comes to having a happy and balanced dog, but making sure that they get nutritious food & clean water, fresh air & physical exercise, feel good physically and mentally, fun mental stimulation and frequent enrichment will get you a long way 🐾❤️

🌧️ Rainy Day Brain Boosters for Your Pup! 🐾💡

When the rain is pouring outside, it's time to get those doggy brains working indoors! Here are some fun and engaging activities to activate your pup's mind and beat the rainy day blues! 🌧️🧠

1️⃣ Blanket Treat Hunt: Grab a cozy blanket and hide some delicious treats within its folds. Watch as your furry friend sniffs and uncovers the hidden goodies. It's a sniff-tastic adventure that keeps them entertained and mentally stimulated.

2️⃣ Toilet Roll Treasure Box: Gather empty toilet rolls and place small treats inside each one. Then, put the rolls in a box, and let your dog use their snout or paws to uncover the tasty surprises. This DIY puzzle will challenge their problem-solving skills and keep them engaged.

3️⃣ Search and Find Fun: Hide your dog's favorite toys or treats in various spots around the house and encourage them to sniff them out. Start with easier hiding spots and gradually increase the difficulty level. This game taps into their natural instincts and provides a rewarding mental workout.

4️⃣ Bottle Treat Challenge: Take an empty plastic bottle and put some treats inside. Just make sure your dog isn't scared by the sound of the bottle. It's a fantastic way to provide mental stimulation and keep their mind sharp.

5️⃣ Dog Puzzle Time: Invest in a dog puzzle toy or borrow one from a friend. These interactive toys challenge your pup to solve puzzles to access treats. They'll be entertained and mentally stimulated while honing their problem-solving abilities.

6️⃣ Bowling Bonanza: Teach your pup how to knock down empty toilet rolls! Set it up and guide your dog to roll a ball to knock them over. It's a super fun and mentally engaging indoor activity that also improves their coordination.

Rainy days don't have to be dull for our furry pals. Embrace the indoor opportunities and enjoy quality time with your pup, while giving their brain a good workout. 🌧️🧩❤️

👉 Have you heard of Fear Free handling techniques for dogs?
It’s a technique that can help reduce stress and anxiety in animals during veterinary exams, grooming sessions, and other procedures. It can improve the animal's experience and leads to better outcomes.

👉 How does it work?
By using positive reinforcement, gentle handling, and creating a comfortable environment, veterinarians and groomers can help animals feel more at ease, leading to a more positive experience for both the animal and the practitioner. Fear Free handling also involves minimizing restraint and not using any aversive tools or techniques that may cause pain or discomfort to the dog.

🐩 Fear Free Grooming
Regular grooming and bathing of your dog's fur are necessary for their well-being as it can prevent health issues. It’s even more important during the rainy spring season, as wet and muddy conditions can lead to matting, tangling, and other issues 🌱🌧

Shoutout to @klippdinhund for their compassionate and caring approach to grooming 🙌

So if you're a pet owner, make sure to ask your veterinarian or groomer about Fear Free handling techniques to help ensure a more comfortable and stress-free experience for your furry friend ❤️

You can also read more at fearfreepets.com

Here's a fun twist on active walks with your dog! ❄️ If you live in an area with snow, try hiding treats for your dog to find while on your walk. Not only does it make the walk more exciting for your dog, but it also adds an extra level of mental stimulation.

Hiding treats in the snow encourages your dog to use their sense of smell to locate the treats, which can be a great way to tire them out mentally and physically. Plus, it's a great opportunity to bond with your dog and make the most of the winter weather.

So next time you're out on an active dog walk, don't forget to try this fun activity and see how much your dog enjoys it! 🐾

🎉 Here’s a fun activity that works just as well outside as inside by only using a “rock-a-stack” toy.

It’s easy to increase the difficulty as your dog gets better at it. As an example, we are currently working hard on being able to stack the rings on the tower without help from humans, it’s easier said than done 😅 Suggestions are welcome 🙏

⚠️ N.B. Make sure the dog doesn't chew on the rings and swallows pieces of plastic!

There are quite a few step to teaching your dog this (search, take it, retrieve, drop it), but your dog will get a lot of great mental activation during the learning process 😍 Make sure your start training in a familiar setting when your dog is in a calm state of mind. Think about teaching this in baby steps!

Here’s one way of teaching your dog how to TAKE IT, RETRIEVE and DROP a ring:
1️⃣ Start with one ring
2️⃣ When your dog touches the ring, use your reward signal (such as a clicker or short signal like ”yes”) and reward
3️⃣ Increase your dog’s required interaction (baby steps) with the ring before getting the reward
4️⃣ When your dog picks it up and holds it in their mouth, reward and give a lot of praise
5️⃣ When you’ve shaped the behaviour, add a signal WHEN the dog is picking up the item - then just BEFORE the dog picks it up
6️⃣ Place the ring further away from you, wait for the dog to pick it up and encourage your dog to come to you, use your reward signal and reward
7️⃣ When you’ve shaped the behaviour, add a signal WHEN the dog is retrieving the ring - then just BEFORE the dog is retrieving the ring
8️⃣ When your dog can retrieve the ring, exchange it for a reward and add a signal when the dog drops the ring

Want to activate your dog and get a fun video out of it? 🎬🐩

To make this video possible we needed to first learn 3 new tricks 👉 " Wave”, “Lick nose ” and “Paw on table” (he already knew “Stay”, Jump up", "Jump down", "Wait", "Go ahead" and “Come here”).

Below is one way to teach one of the tricks👇

Wave 👋
1️⃣ Get some treats and have the dog sit in front of you
2️⃣ Close your fist around the treat and hold it in front of the dog, close to their paw
3️⃣ At any form of movement that dog does with their paw to try and get the treat, say your reward signal (such as “yes”, “good” or use clicker) and reward
4️⃣ Start saying the reward signal and rewarding when the dog starts to pick up their paw, but before it touches your hand
5️⃣ Remove the treat from your fist and reward from the other hand every time the dog lifts their paw
6️⃣ When the dog understands what the "game" is about, wait with the reward until the dog lifts their paw a little more
7️⃣ In small steps, increase the requirement for how much the dog has to move their paw before they get rewarded
8️⃣ Add a verbal signal/hand signal when the dog is waiving
9️⃣ Practice until you can just say the signal

Big thanks to @petgood.global for the yummy treats 🍬! #ad

⚠️ As usual safety and the wellbeing of the dog was the highest priority when filmning this.

Let your dog use their brilliant nose by having them search for treats when out on a walk 🐾

You can also bring their regular food with you on your walks and have them search for it! It is one of the simplest ways to provide enrichment for your dog 😍

Don't forget to increase the difficulty as your dog gets better at finding the treats 😉

Teach your dog how to jump up on things to make your walks more engaging 🐾

Learning new things also increases your dog's confidence level and provides great mental stimulation 🧠

Here is one way of teaching your dog how to jump up on things on cue:

1️⃣ Find a suitable height
2️⃣ Put a treat on top
3️⃣ Let your dog take the treat, point and say “up” when they are going up
4️⃣ Start pointing and saying “up” before they go up
5️⃣ When the dog knows the behaviour start rewarding from your hand instead of putting out a treat

If your dog doesn’t jump up on cue, go back to the step before and/or make sure that you’re in an environment where your dog is calm and there are minimal or no distractions. And as always, make sure your dog is in a calm state of mind when learning new things.

⚠️ Prevent fall-related injuries by putting safety first when trying this trick!

Let your dog use their brilliant nose by having them search for treats 🍬 on trees 🌳

This is one of our favorite activities that we do at least once a day! The dog gets to activate their nose AND improve their body awareness 😍

Rewarding your dog when they do something you like is called positive reinforcement 🐶❤️

So why use positive reinforcement instead of punishment?

📝 Short answer:
It’s the most ethical and efficient method according to scientific research!

📚Long answer :
Scientific studies are continuously showing that positive reinforcement is better for many reasons. One recent peer reviewed research article by Vieira de Castro et al. 👉 “Does training method matter? Evidence for the negative impact of aversive-based methods on companion dog welfare“ shows that dog trained using reward-based methods experience better welfare both during training AND outside of the training sessions.

In this study it was also shown that dogs that were trained using punishments were more tense, stressed, had higher cortisol levels after training and performed worse on cognitive tasks than the dogs that were trained using reward based methods.

👀Want more sources saying positive reinforcement is more efficient? Sure! Check out these three listed below:

Hiby EF, Rooney NJ, Bradshaw JWS👉 Dog training methods: their use, effectiveness and interaction with behaviour and welfare.

Haverbeke A, Laporte B, Depiereux E, Giffroy JM, Diederich C. 👉Training methods of military dog handlers and their effects on the team’s performances.

China L, Mills DS, Cooper JJ. 👉 Efficacy of Dog Training With and Without Remote Electronic Collars vs. a Focus on Positive Reinforcement.

Teach your dog how to walk sideways on their hind legs while having their front paws on a bench 🐾 Better body control increases your dog's confidence.

1️⃣ Find a bench with a suitable height for your dog
2️⃣ Lure the dog with a treat to put their front paws on the bench, praise and reward (if the dog jumps up, try using a lower bench)
3️⃣ Increase the difficulty by offering another treat when the dog is on their hind legs but a bit to the side so the dog has to take a step to the right or left to reach the treat
4️⃣ Increase the number of steps the dog has to take to the right or left before getting the treat
5️⃣ Finally, try putting out several treats on the bench and let the dog take them by walking to the right or left while having their from paws on the bench and their hind legs on the ground
6️⃣ Make sure the dog alternates between stepping to the right and to the left so they don’t develop muscle imbalances.

⚠️ Prevent injuries by considering your dog's physique before trying this as some dogs should not walk on their hind legs. Always talk to your veterinarian if you’re unsure if your dog should do this trick.

How to teach your dog to search for your dropped items 👃

There are quite a few step to teaching your dog this (search, take it, retrieve, drop it), but it might be very useful in the future if you ever loose your keys on a walk😉 Your dog will also get a lot of great mental activation during the learning process 😍 Make sure your start training in a familiar setting when your dog is in a calm state of mind. Think about teaching this in baby steps!

Here’s one way of teaching your dog how to SEARCH for an item:
1️⃣ Start with an item they like/are interested in, such as a fun toy
2️⃣ Show the item to the dog and let them sniff it
3️⃣ Ask the dog to stay/or ask someone to calmly hold the leash so the dog can’t follow you
4️⃣ Hide the item in plain sight but a few meters away from the dog
5️⃣ Say a signal like ”search”, and let the dog go to the item
6️⃣ Praise and reward the dog when they find it
7️⃣ Start hiding the item in more difficult places and start using other items etc until the dog knows that “search” means to put their brilliant nose at work!

Here’s one way of teaching your dog how to TAKE IT, RETRIEVE and DROP an item:
1️⃣ Start with an easy item, like an empty toilet roll
2️⃣ When your dog touches the item, use your reward signal (such as a clicker or short signal like ”yes”) and reward
3️⃣ Increase your dog’s required interaction (baby steps) with the toilet roll to get the reward
4️⃣ When your dog picks it up and holds it in their mouth, reward and give a lot of praise
5️⃣ When you’ve shaped the behaviour, add a signal WHEN the dog is picking up the item - then just BEFORE the dog picks it up
6️⃣ Place the item further away from you, wait for the dog to pick it up and encourage your dog to come to you, use your reward signal and reward
7️⃣ When you’ve shaped the behaviour, add a signal WHEN the dog is retrieving the roll - then just BEFORE the dog is retrieving the roll
8️⃣ When your dog can retrieve the roll, exchange it for a reward and add a signal when the dog drops the roll

⚠️ Prevent injuries by choosing a suitable & safe item. If there is ANY risk of you dog swallowing or biting the item, choose another item!

Teach your dog how to jump over things to make your walks more engaging 🐾

Here is one way of teaching your dog how to jump over a branch on cue:

1. Lure your dog with a treat to jump over the branch
2. Lure your dog with a treat to jump over the branch but reward the dog with a treat from your other hand
3. Lure your dog with an empty hand to jump over the branch and reward the dog with a treat from your other hand
4. When the dog knows the behaviour, add a verbal cue when the dog is jumping, and reward when the dog has done what you’ve asked
5. Use the verbal cue before the dog jumps and reward when the dog has done what you’ve asked

If your dog doesn’t jump on cue, go back to the step before and/or make sure that you’re in an environment where your dog is calm and there are minimal or no distractions. And as always, make sure your dog is in a calm state of mind when learning new things.

⚠️ Prevent injuries by considering your dog's physique before trying this trick.

Letting your dog solve problems 🧩 increases your dog's confidence level and provides great mental stimulation!

👉 Just make sure you don’t make it too hard (you don’t want your dog to get frustrated) or too easy (it should still be a challenge). Help your dog if they get stuck.

Customize this exercise so it fits your dog.

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