A busy, curious mind is part of a good life at any age. Research and veterinary guidelines point to a few simple habits: let dogs sniff, let cats hunt (with toys), and keep training kind. Pick one idea a day, then check it off.
For dogs
- Let them sniff. In a 2019 study, pet dogs that practiced nosework (searching for scents) approached an uncertain cue faster afterward, which researchers read as a more optimistic outlook. Dogs that practiced heelwork showed no change1.
- Serve meals in a puzzle. The ASPCA suggests feeding meals in food puzzle toys and offering safe chew items3.
- Train with rewards. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior says reward-based training builds a strong, positive bond between dog and owner4.
- Older dogs too. The AVMA says social time, puzzles and toys help keep senior pets mentally active5.
For cats
The AAFP and ISFM feline environmental needs guidelines build a healthy home on five ideas2:
- A safe place to hide. A covered carrier that smells familiar counts2.
- Separate spots for food, water, litter, scratching, play and rest, with food and water apart2.
- Play that copies hunting: wand toys with fur or feathers, kibble tossed to chase, hidden food, puzzle feeders. Rotate toys, and never use hands or feet as toys2.
- Gentle, predictable time with people. Slow blinks, purring and head bunting are friendly signs2.
- Respect their nose. Skip strongly scented cleaners and litter, and wash bedding in rotation so some always smells like home2.
Your 7-day plan
| Day | Dog idea | Done | Cat idea | Done |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon | Hide a few treats around one room and let your dog search | A wand-toy hunt that ends with a catch and a treat | ||
| Tue | Breakfast in a puzzle toy | Scatter part of a dry meal, or toss kibble to chase | ||
| Wed | Five minutes of reward training: one new trick | Hide food in two or three spots | ||
| Thu | A slow walk where your dog sets the pace and sniffs | Swap in toys from a rotation box | ||
| Fri | Treats hidden in a cardboard box to rummage (supervised) | One meal from a puzzle feeder | ||
| Sat | Play with a dog friend, if your dog enjoys other dogs | Quiet lap time or brushing, if your cat enjoys it | ||
| Sun | A long-lasting chew and a calm cuddle | A new box or a new scratching spot to explore |
Always supervise new toys and chews, and stop any game your pet does not seem to enjoy. If your pet has health or mobility limits, ask your vet which activities fit.
Want more like this? Get the free Tail & Tonic Weekly at tailandtonic.co/subscribe. Independent pet-health research every Sunday. No sponsors, no affiliates, nothing to buy.
Sources
- Duranton C, Horowitz A. Let me sniff! Nosework induces positive judgment bias in pet dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science 2019;211:61-66. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2018.12.009
- Ellis SLH, Rodan I, Carney HC, et al. AAFP and ISFM Feline Environmental Needs Guidelines. J Feline Med Surg 2013;15(3):219-230. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X13477537
- ASPCA. Dog behavior guide: Separation Anxiety (section on keeping your dog busy). https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/separation-anxiety
- American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior. Humane Dog Training Position Statement (2021). https://avsab.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AVSAB-Humane-Dog-Training-Position-Statement-2021.pdf
- American Veterinary Medical Association. Senior Pets (client brochure, 2023). https://ebusiness.avma.org/files/ProductDownloads/mcm-client-brochures-senior-pets-2023.pdf
Tail & Tonic is an independent educational resource curating information about the physical and mental health of cats and dogs. It is not veterinary advice — always consult your veterinarian before changing your pet's care. When we reference a specific product, any statement about what it does reflects that manufacturer's own claims, not our conclusions. This content has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We are reader-supported and accept no sponsorships, paid placements, or commissions. © 2026 Tail & Tonic · tailandtonic.co