10. Tips for Parents on Keeping Dogs Mentally and Physically Stimulated

Parenting Kids and Dogs 101

Welcome to Parenting Kids and Dogs 101, a limited series podcast for parents who live with kids and dogs, or plan to. I'm your host, Michelle Stern, the founder of Pooch Parenting. I'm not just a certified professional dog trainer and former teacher, I'm a mom too. In each episode of this series, I hope you'll feel like I'm chatting with you, one parent to another, about life with kids and dogs, answering common questions my clients ask me, and giving you simple solutions to make your life easier and safer.
I hope you'll subscribe and join me for the whole series, and don't forget to grab the accompanying workbook at https://poochparenting.net/podcastworkbook/
Keeping Dogs Physically Stimulated

• Physical stimulation for dogs can include walks, hikes, running, swimming, playing with other dogs, playing active games with us, and more...
• It can be difficult for parents, especially with infants or young children, to leave the house to get their dogs exercise
• You can hire a dog walker to get your dogs out
• You can hire a babysitter so YOU can take your dogs out for physical exercise and bonding with your dog

Keeping Dogs Mentally Stimulated

• Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise
• Mental stimulation can include: food puzzles, games, training sessions, nose or scent work, playing hide and seek, learning tricks, doing therapy work, finding food scattered in the house or yard
• It's often easier for overwhelmed parents to offer their dogs mental stimulation than it is to provide physical exercise - it can be easier to do at home and if you are recovering from childbirth
• Taking slow walks with your dog in new places or even in your neighborhood, and letting them sniff as much as they want

Aim for "Good Enough" Parenting

• perfect parenting is a myth
• do the best you can and say goodbye to mom guilt because you are making an effort

It's only natural for questions about our kids and dogs to arise from time to time, especially as our babies grow up and our dogs mature. And if I'm being honest, it's not really worth asking for free advice from friends or online because you can't rely on the accuracy of the feedback you are getting. If you'd like to learn more about The Pooch Parenting Society, where I offer practical life and science-based tips and strategies, ongoing support and a safe place to share, head on over to www.safekidsanddogs.com. From one parent to another, I see you and I promise, you're not alone.
If you have questions about your kids and dogs or would like to book an appointment, participate in a group coaching program or take an online class, visit my website: www.poochparenting.net