Mastermind: Increasing Your Pet’s Intelligence and Obedience Level.

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

I’ve often heard people profess that a pet is only as smart as its owner. And, experts agree that to a certain degree that’s true. In fact, they attest that pets can be trained to be smarter and better behaved by stimulating their brain. In fact, they suggest that dogs are able to learn up to 200 words, the mental equivalent to that of a three-year old. And, while cats show signs of significant intelligence too, it’s more difficult to evaluate.

But, boosting your pets brain power takes time and patients and a grasp of the tricks of the trade.

1. Improve (your pet’s) Language Skills Through Vocabulary: Teach your pet new words in much the same way you would an infant or young child and engage it in conversation on a daily basis. Experts suggest “informing” you pet of what your are doing or where your are going, such as outside (each time you venture out) so that he or she can (eventually) make the association.

2. Create A Stimulating Environment: Pets are generally “creatures” of the wild, and they crave that kind of stimulation and “freedom” in order to thrive.

Cats for instance can be easily entertained with a toy on a string or a bag and a flashlight. Keep in mind that they are generally “independent’, athletic animals that require (and deserve) physical and mental stimulation.

Dogs also need physical activity and mental stimulation. In fact, experts suggest at least 30 minutes of fun time per day. From daily walks to playing hide and seek with subtly scented treats, it’s important to play with your pooch daily.

Remember, pets who are sharp minded tend to also be healthier because they have a purpose other than to sit around and rest and eat all day.

Long Island Pets Articles > Mastermind: Increasing Your Pet’s Intelligence and Obedience Level.