What is it?

Canine enrichment is providing activities that stretch your dogs ability to problem solve, and stimulate drives as a safe controlled activity .It also provides a good base for human interaction.

Examples:

Kong…this allows your dog to forage and problem solve at the same time .

Foraging toys , where containers have food in and the dog has to work out how to get it out ! Great fun and engages problem solving with enrichment activity

Snuffle mat …this is also a foraging problem solver, the dog having to move “ fronds “

Liki Mat ..also a food device and stimulates licking, and occupies the mind

Toys ..enrichment toys are available where dogs have to open doors to get the treat

Flirt pole this is a great predatory drive training ( impulse control ) tool, and fun and interactive too …please follow the rules

Tether tug ..tug pole that is buried well in the ground …dogs do need to be trained to use it …

Dig pit …an area in the garden where you dog is allowed to dig freely , or sand in a paddling pool …this addresses the drive to dig .and some breeds are great excavators ..particularly Griffons and Pods you have to train the dig area …once trained it’s a great thing to have ….

Games …search games are great enrichment…using an important drive and allowing the dog to use safely use treats under plant pots ..in nooks and crannies or lay trails .

There are many variables and variations….just enjoy !

Blog written by Dog Advocate, Janine Davenport