A bored dog is a busy dog, and not always in a good way. Chewed shoes, restless pacing and nonstop barking are often signs that your dog needs more to do. Enrichment gives dogs safe, satisfying outlets for their natural instincts to sniff, forage, lick, chew and solve problems. Here are easy ideas you can try indoors today.
1. Let them sniff it out
Sniffing is mentally tiring in the best way. Scatter your dog's kibble across a snuffle mat and let them nose through the fabric strips to find every piece. You can also hide treats around one room and play "find it".
2. Turn mealtime into a puzzle
Instead of a bowl that's empty in 20 seconds, serve meals in a layered slow feeder puzzle bowl so your dog has to work for each bite. Start on the easiest setting so they feel successful.
3. Try a treat-dispensing toy
Toys that release kibble as they move keep dogs engaged on their own. The Wobble Bot treat tumbler rights itself after every nudge, and the Quack & Snack puzzle feeder teaches your dog to press for a reward.
4. Make licking a calm activity
Licking is a soothing, repetitive activity many dogs love. Spread a little plain yogurt, pumpkin or wet food on a lick mat. For a longer-lasting challenge, freeze it first.
5. Teach a new trick
Five minutes of training a day, like "touch", "spin" or "settle", works your dog's brain and strengthens your bond. Use small pieces of their regular food as rewards.
6. Rotate their toys
Put most toys away and bring out two or three at a time. Swapping them every few days makes old toys feel new again.
A few safety tips
- Supervise your dog with any new toy or mat.
- Choose the right size for your dog, and put away anything that gets damaged.
- Count enrichment food as part of your dog's daily ration.
Enrichment doesn't replace walks and play, but a little every day can make a big difference to a bored dog.