Does your dog look at you with those “I’m bored!” eyes? Or perhaps you’ve noticed a little too much napping and not enough engagement? They are showing you that they need some enrichment added to their daily routine!
This is why DOGTV celebrates Canine Enrichment Week every year! Enrichment isn’t just a fancy word; it’s the secret ingredient to a happy, well-adjusted dog, especially for playful puppies, wise seniors, or dogs prone to boredom.
To help keep your dog’s mind sharp and their bodies engaged, DOGTV has rounded up seven fantastic “boredom busters.” We challenge you to try a different enrichment activity each day this week to keep your pup’s routine fresh, fun, and mentally stimulating! These are perfect for when they’re home alone or just need a little extra spark in their day.
Ready to transform your dog’s week? Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Puzzle Feeders – Mealtime, Elevated!
What it is: Turn your dog’s regular meal into an exciting game! Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, and treat-dispensing toys require your dog to work a little for their food. This isn’t just fun; it engages their problem-solving skills, prevents fast eating, and satisfies their natural foraging instincts.
Why it works: Mental stimulation from “earning” their food can be just as tiring as physical exercise! DOGTV Tip: While your dog is busy with their puzzle, try our Stimulation programs on DOGTV to keep their minds gently engaged with stimulating sounds and visuals. Product Spotlight: Looking for popular options? Search for Kong Wobbler, Outward Hound Puzzle Toys, or snuffle mats for endless mealtime fun! You can also make puzzle feeders by using Tori’s tips in the video below.
Tori’s Tip: DIY Puzzle Toys your dog and your wallet will love!
Day 2: Scent Work – Unleash their Inner Detective!
What it is: Dogs navigate their world primarily through their incredible sense of smell. Harness this superpower by playing “find it!” Hide small, high-value treats around the house or yard and encourage your dog to sniff them out.
Why it works: This activity taps into your dog’s natural foraging drive. This mental problem-solving can use more energy than folks expect – often more so than a long walk! DOGTV Tip: Our Exposure programs feature a variety of sounds and sights, perfect for enriching their auditory senses during a scent work session.
Tori’s Tip: Explore scent games and DIY items you have at home for easy enrichment!
Day 3: Chew Time – The Joy of the Gnaw!
What it is: A high-quality, long-lasting chew toy or bone can keep your dog happily occupied for hours. Chewing is a natural, stress-relieving behavior for dogs, promoting dental health while providing an excellent outlet for pent-up energy and even helping to reduce anxiety.
Why it works: It’s a fundamental canine need that offers both physical and psychological benefits. DOGTV Tip: Our Relaxation programs are perfect companions for a peaceful chew session, providing calming visuals and gentle sounds. Product Spotlight: Popular products for those “chewers” in your family include Benebone, Nylabone, or durable natural chews (always supervise and choose appropriate sizes).
Tori’s Tip: Food enrichment ideas for bored dogs to help keep them stimulated
Day 4: Interactive Play – Build That Bond!
What it is: Good old-fashioned interactive games like fetch or tug-of-war aren’t just for physical exercise; they’re fantastic for strengthening the bond between you and your dog. Keep these sessions fun and engaging, and remember to let your dog “win” sometimes to build their confidence and keep them eager to play!
Why it works: It’s a powerful way to connect with your dog and provides both physical and mental stimulation. After an energetic play session, it’s time for some relaxation at home, we hope! Product Spotlight: Lick Mat, Interactive Ball Launcher, and Treat dispensing balls.
Tori’s Tip: Indoor games to play on a rainy day, include mental, physical & calming enrichment
Day 5: New Scents on Walks – The “Sniffari” Adventure!
What it is: Transform your daily walk from a structured “heel” routine into an exciting “sniffari.” On some walks, allow your dog to take the lead (within safe limits or a long leash, of course) and explore new scents! Let them linger, sniff, and truly investigate their environment.
Why it works: This provides a rich sensory experience that is incredibly mentally stimulating and satisfying, catering to their natural curiosity. Even on a short walk, a good sniffari will leave your dog pleasantly tired and ready for a nap when you get home!
Tori’s Tip: Outdoor adventures, beyond a typical walk, ideas to keep them stimulated outside
Day 6: DIY Sensory Box – Digging for Gold!
What it is: Grab a simple cardboard box and fill it with safe, interesting items like shredded paper, crumpled old towels, or dog-friendly toys. Then, hide a few tasty and smelly treats deep inside. Let your dog enjoy a fun and safe digging activity as they forage for their treasures!
Why it works: This taps into a dog’s natural instinct to dig and forage in a controlled and safe environment and keeps them happily occupied.
Tori’s Tip: Get the inside scoop on DIY activities for destructive chewers – messy, but fun!
Day 7: Training Sessions – Brain Games!
What it is: Who says training isn’t fun? Short, positive, 5-10 minute training sessions can provide immense mental stimulation for dogs of all ages. Whether you’re teaching a new trick, refining a basic command, or practicing a fun sequence of behaviors, these sessions keep your dog’s brain sharp, focused, and eager to please. Make sure you’re rewarding your pup with praise and high-value treats.
Why it works: Mental exercise through learning and problem-solving is crucial for cognitive health and builds confidence. After a brain-boosting training session, your dog will appreciate some downtime. Play some soothing music to help them wind down for the evening. Product Spotlight: Outward Hound Dog Tornado & Brick Puzzle slide, lift, or swivel parts to reveal hidden treats, a perfect way to engage a dog’s problem-solving skills.
Tori’s Tip: Social interactions like training, meeting other dogs & humans raise a dog’s confidence
By incorporating these simple, fun activities into your dog’s daily life, you can effectively prevent boredom, reduce anxiety, and ensure they are living their happiest, healthiest life. Which boredom buster will you try first for Canine Enrichment Week?
