Dog Enrichment: Let's Get Started!
Enrichment for dogs is as crucial as coffee is to humans. Just like us, our furry friends need to mix things up to lead fulfilling lives. And the best part? It's easy and affordable to keep them entertained! By offering activities that involve their natural instincts, such as foraging, we stimulate their senses and provide them with a healthy outlet for their energy. Not only does this ward off boredom, but it also helps to alleviate behaviour problems like anxiety and excessive chewing. So, grab some treats and toys, and let's get started on enriching your pup's world!
Here are four simple DIY ideas that can help you get started -
- Tennis Ball Treat Puzzle
Transform your tennis balls into a tasty treat dispenser! Slice a line on the ball's seam, fill it up with your pet's preferred munchies, and watch them go wild. Plus, the felt coating on the ball ensures durability, making it an ideal brain-teasing game for your four-legged friends. And shhh... it's a silent but engaging addition to your dog's playtime.
All you need is:
- A tennis ball
- A blade to make the incision
- Your dog’s favourite kibble
2. Treats in a Cereal Box
Looking for a fun and interactive way to engage your pet while you go about your busy schedule? Look no further! This enrichment activity is perfect for all those furry babies who love tear packages to shreds.
All you need is:
- An empty cereal box
- A handful of your pet’s favourite treats or kibble
- Tape (to seal the lid of the box)
Tip: With the help of a pencil/ pen, punch a few holes into the surface of the box so that your curious pup can get a whiff of the treats and stay motivated to tear the box apart.
Conclusion: Expect a mess but also an occupied pup!
3. T-shirt Tug Of War
If you’ve got a four-legged serial chewer at home, then this super easy DIY enrichment toy is what you need to keep them busy! All you have to do is take two old t-shirts and fashion them into a tug of war toy.
How it works:
- Cut the two t-shirts into strips
- Take all strips together and tie a knot at the top
- Braid the strips and knot them again at the end
- There you go! Time to get tugging
4. Ball and Sock-it!
Tired of buying new toys for your furry buddy only to see these torn apart in a matter of seconds? Worry not! Here’s a DIY that you can put together anytime at home without burning a hole in your pocket. All you need is an old sock and a tennis ball.
How it works:
- Stretch a sock wide open
- Place the tennis ball inside it
- Knot the sock and it’s ready!
So get ready to match their energy the next playtime with this swingable, tuggable and tossable enrichment toy. Happy playtime!