ENRICHMENT –THE SECRET TO A HAPPY DOG

Buying your dog a play-mat, brain-teaser toy or a mini assault course might seem like the mark of an overindulgent owner. However, enrichment toys and activities can actually be the difference between a badly behaved and depressed dog and a well behaved and happy dog.

But what is enrichment exactly?

Enrichment is when dogs are able to engage in their innate behaviours such as chewing, chasing, smelling, scavenging and playing and, in turn, they feel emotionally, physically and mentally happy and fulfilled. Dogs who aren’t happy and fulfilled get bored and engage in negative behaviours. No one needs stressed or aggressive dogs. Plus in the long-term, like humans, dogs can develop dementia; enrichment can help prevent this.

There is an array of toys out there and it’s easy to feel bamboozled by choice. We’ve listed some of the best below but it’s worth remembering that not all enrichment costs money.

Ten minutes tug of war play with your dog each day can be excellent stimulation for them (and you!). You can build a garden assault course from boxes and logs or tie some treats up in old bits of rag and then wrap them in newspaper. My son and I sometimes play hide and seek round the house with the dog and she delights in finding one of us wedged under a bed or behind a door. There are endless possibilities.

In terms of safety, never leave a dog alone with a toy and if they tear up fabric remove it in case their tempted to swallow it in the heat of the moment.

It’s worth having a good few enrichment toys and exercises to keep your dog on their toes. Keep things varied and it’ll keep them excited.

Words by Mide Carter.

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Kong Classic Dog Toy

prices start at £10.

This is a simple, durable and effective dog toy and just a great all-rounder. There are different sizes depending on your dog. You can throw it, fill it with treats or both. Or for a real challenge, you can teach your dog its name, fill it with treats, hide it and let them find it.

Trixie Dog Activity Flower Tower

£23.71, Amazon

This toy is more challenging than most and will definitely keep your dog hooked for longer, making it worth every penny. However, it’s not so complicated your dog will abandon it and is a great toy to have in your dog’s enrichment arsenal.

Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Casino

£15.29, Amazon

Bakumon Snuffle Mat

£18, Amazon

Dogs love to sniff and scratch – making a Snuffle Mat a great edition to their toy box. It’s also really effective for dogs who eat too fast. You can fill the mat with some of their kibble, which keeps them keen whilst slowing them down and looking after their digestive system.

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YMCCOOL Lick Pad for Dogs and Cats

£7, Amazon

And of course, dogs love to lick. A lick mat can slow down their eating, ease anxiety and keep them stimulated. These mats are great because they have brilliant suction and are very reasonably priced.

Tug-E-Nuff Pocket Fauxtastic Durable Bungee

Tug Toy for Dogs

£20.99, Amazon