If you've ever read anything about keeping your mind sharp, you know that doctors recommend that we "use it or lose it." Doing things like crossword puzzles and other mental challenges is so important to keep our minds sharp as we age. 

It's no different for dogs, and dog puzzles are a great way to ensure that your best friend is staying sharp. Not to mention that dog puzzles that challenge your dog's mental capacity are fun for them! Here are some of the best dog puzzle toys for dogs. 

They may not be as well-known as Rough Collies and Border Collies, but if you like the idea of a herding dog and you want one that is playful and a good family dog, then the Australian Shepherd may well be it.

The Australian Shepherd is a great all-rounder. They make good watchdogs, but they’re also good with other pets and children. They’re not too big and not too small, and while they do take some grooming, their coat is usually not excessively thick, which also means they can cope okay with hot and cold temperatures as we get in Canada.

Canine Minute Virus, also known as Canine Parvovirus Type-1, is an infectious disease that usually affects young puppies. This tiny virus generally targets the heart and respiratory system and is also believed to result in the spontaneous abortion of fetuses as well as the death of newborn puppies.

For 20 years after first being discovered, this so-called “orphan virus” was thought to be reasonably harmless and non-pathogenic. Further scientific studies conducted, however, showed that the Canine Minute Virus was not as harmless as previously believed but posed extreme danger for fetuses and newborn puppies.

Rabies, or hydrophobia, also known as acute viral encephalomyelitis, is a fatal disease that can affect all warm-blooded mammals, both human and animal alike. Canine rabies is a zoonotic concern because of the close relationship humans have with their dogs.                                                                                                 

The disease is spread via infected body fluids, especially blood and saliva, which usually occurs from bites as well as other open wounds. Vaccination against rabies is required by law in some countries.