Nutritional enrichment

Creative feeding methods like puzzle toys engage dogs’ minds during mealtime

Terrier enjoying lick mat enrichment on top of agility equipment at rehoming centre

Feeding your dog in a creative way can have multiple benefits like reducing anxiety and boredom as well as building resilience. This enrichment method will also activate behaviours that your dog loves to do like digging, sniffing, tearing, chewing, hunting and so on! 

There are so many options when it comes to nutritional enrichment – from buying food dispensing toys and puzzles, to making your very own DIY alternatives.  

Here are some great DIY options

How to make a snuffle mat for your dog

How to make a snuffle mat for your dog

This fun activity is easy and cheap to make. It’ll keep your dog content while they sniff out the hidden treats.

Dog-friendly pancakes

Dog-friendly pancakes

Quick and easy pancakes your dog will flippin' love.

Frozen dog treats

Frozen dog treats

For a cooling treat that's hard to beat, why not whip up a batch of frozen treats for your dog?

Or you could try the yoga mat trick...

If you’re pressed for time, something as simple as scattering food either inside the home or out in the garden so your dog can go hunt for it is also a great enrichment option. You could also lay a treat trail for your pup to follow with their nose. Why not create a shape or spell out their name?   
 

For a full list of dog friendly food-based games and treats check out our easy enrichment recipes

 
Top tips: Make sure you supervise your pooch, just in case they need help. This is particularly important with any homemade food enrichment activities.  

 

Remember, you need to be careful that your dog isn’t gaining too much weight from regular food-based enrichment. If they are having this type of enrichment during the day, then simply take it out of their evening meal. 

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