Rainy day? Too hot to walk? Or maybe your dog just needs some mental stimulation during downtime. Enrichment games are a great way to keep your pup engaged, reduce boredom, and strengthen your bond—all without leaving the house.
Here are our favourite easy, affordable enrichment activities to try at home.
1. Muffin Tin Sniff Game
Take a muffin tin, drop a few treats in random cups, and cover each with a tennis ball or balled-up sock. Let your dog sniff and search for the goodies underneath. It taps into their natural foraging instincts and keeps their brain busy!
2. Towel Roll Puzzle
Lay out a towel, sprinkle some dry treats or kibble across it, then roll it up. Let your dog unroll the towel with their nose or paws to find the snacks hidden inside. It’s simple, satisfying, and encourages gentle problem-solving.
3. The Cardboard Box Challenge
Fill an empty box with shredded paper, toilet rolls, or packing paper and toss in a few treats or a toy. Let your pup dig, sniff, and root around. Supervision is key—especially for enthusiastic chewers!
4. Cup & Treat Shell Game
Place a treat under one of three plastic cups and shuffle them around. Encourage your dog to sniff or paw at the right one. You can make it easier or harder depending on their skill level!
5. Frozen Lick Mat or Stuffed Kong
Fill a lick mat or Kong toy with wet food, mashed banana, or dog-safe yoghurt and freeze it. Licking helps release calming hormones, and frozen treats make it last even longer. Perfect for hot days or crate time.
Why Enrichment Matters
Just 15–20 minutes of mental stimulation can tire your dog out as much as a long walk. Enrichment supports:
- Focus and confidence
- Reduced anxiety and boredom
- Improved behaviour and calmness
- Stronger connection with you
Best of all? Most enrichment activities require zero fancy equipment—just a bit of creativity and a few treats.
Final Thoughts: Make Boredom a Thing of the Past
Keeping your dog entertained indoors doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few household items and a little imagination, you can turn an ordinary day into a brain-boosting adventure for your pup.
Which DIY game will your dog try first?
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.