Experts say one of the key factors in raising a healthy, happy dog is regular enrichment. Not quite sure what ‘enrichment’ actually means? Let us explain why enrichment matters and share with you a few of our favourite dog enrichment recipes.

Dog enrichment is all about tuning into your four-legged friend’s natural instincts. We’re talking about his innate desire to hunt, scavenge for food, chase, chew (not the furniture) and sniff.

These are the things that dogs were born to do, but, sadly, seldom get to do in urban society. However, this is where enrichment comes into play.

Dog enrichment can help to reduce boredom and destructive behaviour. Enrichment-based activities are a great way to mentally and physically stimulate your dog, which is awesome for his or her general wellbeing and happiness. Other benefits of dog enrichment include:

  • If done correctly, enrichment can improve your dog’s socialisation
  • Good for dogs’ general welfare
  • A great way to introduce new culinary experiences, sounds, sights and smells

Enrichment products

Nowadays, there are loads of pet enrichment products on the market. Possibly one of the most popular items is the Kong. These fairly low-cost toys come in a range of sizes, to suit your pooch, and can be filled with your fur pal’s favourite food.

A kong will appeal to your canine chum’s natural instinct to scavenge for food. He’ll have hours of fun trying to get the food from inside the Kong. This is a fantastic way to stimulate your dog’s brain and keep him entertained.

Other types of enrichment toys include licking mats, food puzzles, snuffle mats. Basically, they can be any type of interactive toy or item that appeals to your dog’s basic instincts and mentally and physically engages him.

However, as you might have noticed, many enrichment toys and games rely on offering food—but what food should you use?

Dog enrichment recipes

Firstly, it pays to clue up on the everyday foods that can be toxic to dogs. Once you know what ingredients to avoid you can start thinking up some tasty dog enrichment recipes.

Need a bit of inspo? Heck, don’t we all, from time to time. Here are a few of our favourite recipes to use in Kongs. TIP: good quality dry kibble works a treat in food puzzles, snuffle mats and the like.

Easy peasy picnic

  • ½ cup shredded chicken
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • ½ cup low-fat cream cheese

This dog enrichment recipe is so totally easy, as it’s equal amounts. Simply mix all the ingredients together. Pop in a piping bag and squeeze into your Kong. Voila!

Cool bananas

  • ½ cup blueberries
  • 1 banana mashed
  • ½ cup low-fat cream cheese
  • Dash of honey or tablespoon of natural peanut butter

HINT: Honey is safe for dogs, so long as it’s eaten in small quantities. However, the American Kennel Club advises that raw honey should not be fed to puppies or dogs with compromised immune systems, as it may contain botulism spores.

Veggie delight

  • ½ cup grated carrot
  • ½ cup grated zucchini
  • ½ cup brown rice
  • ½ cup cooked & mashed pumpkin

Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Pop in a piping bag and squeeze into your Kong.

So now that you know what canine enrichment is, plus you have a few dog enrichment recipes up your sleeve, why not give it a go. After all, providing your four-legged friend will bring so much joy to his or her life.

 

We’d love to hear how enrichment has benefited your barking buddy. Share your stories in the comments section below.

 

Image source: Ayla Verschueren on Unsplash