DIY Enrichment Treats & Toys

Why Enrichment?

Dogs are like young children at times- they have lots of energy and curiosity that gives them a zest for life adults can only dream of having! However, when left unstimulated, it can lead to behavior problems. Providing enrichment activities that challenge the mind is one key strategy to reducing problem behaviors. These activities should require them to use critical thinking in order to problem solve- make them work to get the reward!

Did you know that some types of mental enrichment can help calm an anxious dog who is home alone while the owner is away? This simple but powerful technique is something we use with shelter dogs who struggle with stress in the kennel environment. But it's also a great way to help your dog manage anxiety, stay engaged, and feel more fulfilled when you are away!

When it comes to human food, there are some foods that dogs can and cannot eat. Check out this link from the American Kennel Club for more information.

Cheap, DIY Enrichment Ideas to Keep Dogs Entertained and Stimulate Their Mind

DIY Frozen Enrichment Ideas

In this video, I'll show you how to make a DIY frozen enrichment meal using leftovers and kibble—a simple but effective way to provide cognitive stimulation and prevent destructive behaviors. Think of it as a puzzle toy for dogs that engages their brain while making mealtime fun!

💡 Bonus Tip: Play calming music for dogs while you're away to further reduce anxiety.

Why Does This Help?
Mental enrichment can reduce anxiety, prevent boredom, and curb destructive behaviors by giving dogs a “job” to do, even when you're away!

📌 Try it out and let me know how your dog likes it! Want more enrichment ideas? Subscribe to or follow any one of our social media channels.

🐶 DIY Recycled Food Box Enrichment

Try this DIY food box enrichment activity! Just take an empty food box, add some kibble and treats, and close it up. Your dog will have to work for their reward, which provides much-needed mental stimulation and helps prevent boredom.

🐾 Why This Works:
✅ Encourages problem-solving skills
✅ Helps reduce anxiety and destructive behaviors
✅ Gives your dog a fun, rewarding challenge

Tip: If your pup is new to this, show them what’s inside the box first to help them learn how to get the treats out!

Frozen Food Topper & Cooling Treat

This frozen food topper doubles as an enrichment activity! Simply freeze your dog’s favorite ingredients in a muffin tin, then place the frozen treat in a stainless steel bowl. The treat sticks to the bottom, making it challenging and engaging for your dog to get it out—keeping them busy while they enjoy a refreshing snack!

🐾 Why This Works:
✅ Provides mental stimulation and slows down eating
✅ Helps cool your dog down on hot days
✅ Keeps dogs engaged and entertained

How to Stop Your Dog from Shredding Household Items

Does your dog love to shred things they shouldn't? Instead of getting frustrated, redirect that natural behavior by providing safe, appropriate items to shred! This simple enrichment trick satisfies their need to shred while keeping your belongings safe.

🐾 Tips for Success:
✅ Keep shreddable toys in a designated toy box so your dog knows what’s theirs
✅ Provide chew toys like bones or Kongs to meet their chewing needs
✅ Make enrichment fun and rewarding to prevent destructive behaviors

Sock Rope Toy

Easy & Affordable Dog Enrichment!

Who says puppy toys have to be expensive? Reuse old socks to make a fun DIY rope toy for your pup!

You can switch it up by adding:
🦴 Treats inside for a fun surprise
💧 An empty plastic water bottle for a crinkly sound
🎾 A ball or Kong for extra engagement

Switching up the contents keeps your puppy entertained and prevents boredom! This is an easy, budget-friendly way to provide mental stimulation and playtime enrichment.

Cheap Recycled-Box Boredom Buster for Dogs II

How to Make a Cheap Boredom Buster for Dogs
Is your dog getting bored at home? Instead of letting them get into trouble, try this simple boredom buster that will tire them out mentally! This easy DIY activity uses just a recycling box, some paper, and your dog’s food to keep them engaged and entertained.

🐾 Tips for Success:
✅ Use a recycling box or shallow container to hide food and treats
✅ Crumple paper and layer it to encourage problem-solving
✅ Make it a fun and rewarding challenge to keep your dog focused and mentally stimulated

This inexpensive activity is perfect for preventing boredom and reducing unwanted behaviors by engaging your dog’s mind!

How to Create a Snuffle Pool for Your Dog

Looking for another fun way to engage your dog’s brain? Try this easy DIY snuffle pool! Using a plastic pool filled with stuffed animals and hidden treats, this enrichment activity taps into your dog’s natural sniffing instincts while providing mental and physical stimulation.

🐾 Tips for Success:
✅ Use a variety of soft toys to create an interesting texture mix
✅ Scatter treats or kibble throughout the pool to encourage foraging
✅ Supervise playtime to ensure a safe and rewarding experience

This scent-based game is a great way to keep your dog entertained, mentally sharp, and happy!

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