Dog trainer says 'breed-specific' outlet is key to stop pets getting frustrated

Ensuring your dog receives proper stimulation daily can help guarantee they feel satisfied and have expended all their energy by day's end, preventing them from racing around your home. However, providing adequate stimulation for your canine companion isn't simply a matter of taking them for a stroll; you must also ensure they receive mental enrichment.

According to one canine trainer, there are three distinct types of stimulation that every dog requires - and one frequently overlooked category can be crucial in helping your pet release pent-up frustrations and achieve tranquillity.

Max Randall, founder of MK9Plus Dog Training, explained that alongside mental and physical stimulation, dogs also require "breed-specific" activities that aid relaxation.

In a TikTok video, he highlighted that mental stimulation helps exhaust the brain, while physical stimulation tires the body, and breed-specific stimulation - also termed "outlets" - serves to "relieve your dog's frustration".

He continued by explaining that mentally stimulating activities should be "hard". Activities involving scenting, problem-solving, and "actual thinking" are excellent for your pet.

These might include placing treats inside puzzle feeders that require your dog to engage their intellect to determine how to release the rewards, though Max emphasised that licking or chewing activities don't qualify.

Physical stimulation for dogs often involves taking them for walks, but Max warns this shouldn't be the sole activity you rely on, as it could lead to unintended consequences for your pet.

He cautioned: "Your dog will just get fitter, and a super athletic dog needs superhuman amounts of exercise every day. It'll never be enough."

Max emphasises the importance of "breed-specific stimulation," advising dog owners to delve into their dog's breed history to discover what tasks they were originally bred to perform. For instance, golden retrievers have a natural inclination for fetching, so incorporating fetch into your walks can provide both mental and physical stimulation.

For scent hounds, which were bred for tracking scents, Max suggests creating a scent trail by using a toy soaked in strong-smelling treats. After dragging the toy along the ground to leave a trail, encourage your dog to follow it, rewarding them with treats at the end to acknowledge their success.

Max explained: "Outlets are the one thing that trumps everything else. It's kind of like you've adopted Michael Phelps, but you never give him access to water. Can you see how other activities will be helpful, but nothing will quite scratch that itch like a swimming pool would?"

What is a good outlet for my dog?

While Max didn't detail specific outlets in his video, Best Dog Learning offers several suggestions tailored to different breed groups to ensure your dog gets the most suitable form of stimulation.

Sheep and Cattle Dogs

Breeds such as Border Collies, German Shepherds and Australian Cattle Dogs fall into this category. Ideal activities for these dogs involve safe chasing opportunities.

Some owners find success with toys, but there are also dog sports specifically designed for this group, allowing them to expend energy without the need to herd sheep.

Terriers

Terriers enjoy tracking movement close to them and holding and shaking objects. Long toys that can be wiggled in tall grass or pulled into small gaps are perfect for terriers, as well as tug games that let them bite and shake a toy.

Pointing Dogs

Pointing dogs earn their name from their instinct to locate prey, freeze, and stare at it, often lifting a front leg and using their nose to point directly at it. To enrich this behaviour, stand with your dog while they point at birds during walks.

Ensure they're leashed during this activity to prevent them from chasing the birds.

Sighthounds

Sighthounds are bred for chasing and often possess incredible stamina, capable of pursuing for miles. Flirt poles and long chaser toys are excellent for stimulating these dogs.

Some dogs may simply enjoy the chase, while others will want to catch the toy, requiring different strategies to discover what your dog finds most enjoyable.

Regardless of the breed of dog you own or are considering acquiring, it's crucial to conduct thorough research to understand how to provide them with a rewarding and satisfying life. More information about dogs can be found on the Dog's Trust website.