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If you were stuck doing the same thing, eating the same food, playing in the same yard day in and day out, you would get bored quickly of it, right? The same is true for your dog.
Boredom in dogs can lead to many things including destructive behaviors, depression, and anxiety. Providing them with mentally enriching toys, treats, and activities is essential to their overall well-being and happiness. When a dogs enrichment needs are met, there is a good chance any negative behaviors will improve.
Enrichment comes in 5 forms for your dog: nutritional, physical, social, sensory, and occupational. Each may look different but are equally important. Let’s explore what each type of enrichment looks like.
Dogs like to explore the world around them and one of the biggest motivators for this is food. That’s right, enrichment can be as simple as switching up how and what your dog eats. Introducing puzzle toys for mealtime instead of using a dog bowl can help them fulfill natural foraging instincts. Additionally, introducing them to new flavors and varieties of food can add variety to their diet. Just remember to check with your vet before introducing new food to your canine!
Physical exercise like being able to walk, run, and jump are important to physical enrichment. However, physical enrichment should also include interaction with toys that allow your dog to explore specific natural instincts such as chewing, tugging, and chasing. Having toys that are set aside for different types of play will not only allow your dog to exercise but will allow them to interact with you and increase your bond. Toys can also help in reducing behavioral problems, such as barking or chewing on shoes or furniture.
Dogs are pack animals, so allowing them to socialize within their comfort zone is another area of enrichment to fulfill. Socializing can include positive experiences while on walks or supervised play with other dogs. Socializing doesn’t always have to be with other dogs, either it includes people, too! Well-socialized dogs are less likely to become fearful or overstimulated when meeting new people and places. Always keep your dog’s comfort in mind, though, as some dogs are more comfortable socializing than others.
The nose knows, as in, your dog’s nose knows! We’re all familiar with dog’s great sense of smell, so it should be no surprise that providing your dog with many things and ways to sniff around is a part of their enrichment needs. Introducing nosework games which allow your dog to explore specific scents can be great to incorporate into your time together. Music can also be played to relieve stress and help with auditory stimulation.
Sometimes, a dog just needs a job to do. Being presented with a challenge with a clear goal in mind can be extremely rewarding for your dog. A job can be anything from a puzzle toy, agility, sport-related games, or obedience training. Having a “job” helps your dog feel entertained and release energy.
Many types of enrichment can be fulfilled at once by exploring different ways to incorporate them with one another, be creative and explore different possibilities! Finding which ways your dog enjoys and is comfortable interacting with the world is the key to them living fuller, happier, enriching lives.
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