Just like walking is important to keep your dog physically stimulated, exercising your dog’s brain is also a must. Engaging your dog in solving puzzles improves their problem-solving skills and unleashes a well-behaved dog.
According to the American Kennel Club, a puzzle toy is a device that contains a reward. Many dogs are extremely motivated by food, so food can be the best reward. The idea is to mentally challenge the pup; the dog has to work for the reward.
Dogs can be trained to solve puzzles. Several studies show that pet dogs consider their owners’ engagement as an invitation to play. It is also observed that search and rescue dogs are better at solving puzzles than many other breeds.
Have a look at the top 7 dog breeds trained to solve puzzles.
7 Dog Breeds Trained to Solve Puzzles
1. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are working dogs with exceptional intelligence. These loyal fellows do their best when they have a job to do, and solving puzzles best fits their mindset. They are pro at playing brain games and solving puzzle feeders.
German Shepherds are smart dogs that have excellent problem-solving abilities. They take puzzles very seriously and do not stop until the treat is earned or the puzzle is completed. They do especially well at solving puzzles that involve memory or require multiple steps.
GSDs excel at military and police work and have a natural drive for learning. They love to accompany you on a mission, and a mission with a treat is like a cherry on the cake! GSDs excel at dog sports like swimming, agility, and obedience competitions.
2. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs are like that quiet kid in the class who turns out to be a genius! These alert dogs are always tuned in and tend to be quick learners. Shelties are quite intelligent dogs, having exceptional problem-solving skills.
They enjoy playing with puzzle toys and love figuring out how things work. Give your Sheltie a puzzle and see them solving it like a mystery. Their brain is always in working mode even when lying on a couch.
Shelties thrive in environments that provide them with adequate physical and mental stimulation. They are known for their playful, obedient, and gentle nature. According to PDSA, shelties require one hour of regular exercise that involves playing games.
3. Belgian Malinois
This breed is the Brainiac of the dog world that thrives on complex tasks and mental stimulation. Belgian Malinois excel at solving puzzle feeders due to their exceptional intelligence. Advanced training exercises and puzzle toys are a great way of keeping them engaged.
These high-energy dogs thrive on mental challenges and need constant stimulation to stay happy and content. If you do not give them challenges, they will create their own “missions” that might involve your socks!
Belgian Malinois should get around 40 minutes of exercise every day. Fun activities for this breed include brain games like scent work, training sessions, licks, and puzzles. Treat in a bottle is another excellent game for your Mal.
4. Papillon
A Papillon’s size might confuse you, but these incredibly intelligent and trainable dogs are always up for new challenges. These most intelligent dog breeds are like little powerhouses and enjoy playing puzzle games, especially if they include a reward. Papillons learn tricks faster than you can teach them.
Papillons are the clever fluffballs who excel at obedience training and agility competitions. These mentally agile and bold dogs enjoy interactive play and scent games. If you can’t find your car keys, check with your Papillon.
These pint-sized intelligent dog breeds have a surprising amount of energy and typically require 35 to 40 minutes of daily exercise to stay happy and content. Daily walks, play sessions, and other forms of exercise can help them burn off energy.
5. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers can be easily recognized by their gentle nature, goofy grin, and ever-wagging tail. They are the true people pleasers who love playing games, taking up tasks, and solving puzzle games. Goldies excel at problem-solving due to their curious nature and love for learning.
Golden Retrievers are one of the most intelligent dog breeds that seek pleasure in bringing you slippers or a remote. Give them a puzzle, exercise them properly, and unlock the happiest dog. Whether it is a food maze or a training trick, Goldies will gracefully figure out things.
They solve challenges with great patience and focus. Golden Retrievers need one to two hours of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. According to PetMD, they enjoy activities like running, going on long walks, retrieving, and swimming.
6. Doberman Pinscher
These loyal and protective dogs not only make excellent companions, they are also pro at solving problems. These intelligent breeds enjoy interactive toys and are quick learners, especially when it comes to mastering puzzles. Dobermans are smart dogs who can figure out tasks and routines.
Dobermans are open to doors and cabinets, so keep your snacks out of their reach! They enjoy participating in obedience competitions, playing with interactive toys, and accomplishing tasks involving memory.
They love nothing more than playing games with their pet parents. Doberman Pinschers need at least two hours of daily exercise. Lack of proper exercise can lead to destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, or excessive barking.
7. Border Collie
Border Collies are the Einsteins of the dog world. It does not follow commands; it anticipates them. These smart dogs were originally bred as herding dogs, but now make excellent companions. They are known for their laser focus, precision, and independent thinking.
They love taking up tasks and challenging their minds. Border Collies are super fast at picking up commands. They can learn a new command in less than five repetitions. Give them a puzzle toy and they will not only solve it, but also reset it to assure maximum efficiency.
If you do not keep a Border Collie engaged, it will invent its own games. Young Border Collies need one to two hours of exercise every day, including walks, runs, agility, and obedience training. Senior Collies, however, only require 30 minutes of daily activity.
Conclusion
Several dog breeds are known for their intelligence and excellent problem-solving skills. These smart dogs have mastered the art of solving puzzles. If you are planning to adopt such a dog breed, one of the breeds mentioned in this article might be the right fit for you.
These dogs are highly intelligent, and they love to solve puzzles. They can be trained into learning new things with only a few repetitions. These dogs not only provide you with good, intelligent company but also ensure you are protected.
