7 free enrichment activities for your dog

I’m a huge advocate of enrichment as a lifestyle.

It’s more than just a way to keep your dog “busy”. It’s meeting your dog’s needs and enriching their lives as they navigate what is predominantly a human world.

I’m sure you’ve seen lots of examples of using food creatively for enrichment (have you seen some of the things people have made with a Westpaws Toppl? 😱), but it doesn’t need you to run an empty wallet every time.

Here are 7 free enrichment activities you can give your dog using materials you likely already have in your home:

01: Snuffle box

Save the next Lazada or LBC box that arrives at your doorstep. Fill it with toys, old shirts, packaging paper, and the like. Then sprinkle and hide your dog’s food in the creases and folds before giving the package to them to sniff and enjoy.

02: Egg trays and tubes

Grab an empty egg trays or paper towel tube. Stuff these with your dog’s meals or treats. Fold each end of the tube or close the egg tray shut to give your dog a challenge.

03: Rolled up shirts or towels

Lay out 2-3 old shirts or towels and sprinkle your dog’s food or treats on them. Roll them up and give to your dog to sniff and unravel. Try tying each rolled up shirt or towel to make it a bundle.

04: Treats in your laundry

Treats in your dirty laundry? Why not? Dump some of tomorrow’s laundry and hide your dog’s meals or treats in pockets, seams of shirts, and the like. Your dog’s nose will need to decipher each scent or smell in your clothes to find their rewards.

05: Do-it-yourself (DIY) platforms

Turn that old coffee table or sofa into an opportunity to teach your dog to station on a platform. It’s something the Diwa dogs and I specifically love to do ourselves!

06: Make your own sandpit

If your dog loves to dig, bury, or roll in sand or soil, give them their own sand pit so they don’t find that outlet in your garden. Their own sand pit means they get to practice their natural doggy behaviors safely.

07: Doggy popsicles

If you have a spare ice tray, fill it with plain Greek yogurt, kefir milk, or any other pet-friendly liquid treat. Freeze overnight then serve chilled. It’s the perfect calming enrichment activity for the summer.

Which of these do you think your dog’s gonna love? 🐾

Image credits to @freepik and @smashicons