Best Dog Enrichment Toys: A Trainer’s Guide to Mental Stimulation & Calm Behavior
Have you ever taken your dog on a long, strenuous hike, only to find them napping briefly and then bouncing back, ready to play again just a couple of hours later? If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. It’s a common experience for dog owners and one that highlights an important truth: dogs don’t just need physical exercise — they need mental stimulation.
Understanding the Canine Mind: Why Mental Stimulation Matters
Dogs are intelligent, problem-solving animals. Their ancestors survived by hunting, exploring, and navigating complex environments. Today, most pet dogs no longer need to hunt for food or navigate dense forests, but their brains are still wired for these challenges. When these mental needs go unmet, dogs often become bored, anxious, or even destructive.
The Science of Enrichment:
Research has shown that mental enrichment activates a dog’s prefrontal cortex, the part of their brain responsible for decision-making and problem-solving. Engaging this part of the brain doesn’t just keep your dog busy — it actually tires them out more effectively than a long walk. In fact, 30 minutes of mental enrichment can be as exhausting for your dog as a 2-hour hike.
What Exactly is Enrichment?
Enrichment goes beyond just giving your dog a toy. It’s about providing experiences that challenge their mind, allow them to use their natural instincts, and keep them emotionally balanced. Here are a few ways enrichment can benefit your dog:
✅ Burning Off Excess Energy: When dogs use their brains, they naturally expend more energy. This means a mentally stimulated dog is less likely to engage in hyperactive or destructive behaviors.
✅ Reducing Anxiety: Engaging in problem-solving or scent work can help anxious dogs focus on a task, giving them a healthy outlet for their nervous energy.
✅ Building Confidence: Solving puzzles, exploring new textures, or trying new activities helps build a dog’s confidence, especially for shy or nervous dogs.
✅ Enhancing Focus: Training isn’t just about obedience — it’s about teaching your dog how to focus. Mental games help strengthen your dog’s ability to concentrate, even in distracting environments.
How Enrichment Can Transform Behavior
As a professional dog trainer, one of the most significant behavioral transformations I see in dogs doesn’t come from traditional obedience training — it comes from enrichment. I’ve seen anxious dogs become calm, hyper dogs learn to settle, and insecure dogs gain confidence — all through targeted mental stimulation.
📌 Case Study: One of my clients had a high-energy Border Collie who would never settle, even after long walks and play sessions. But when we introduced daily scent games, puzzle toys, and food-dispensing toys, the dog’s behavior transformed. They were calmer, more focused, and much less anxious.
Enrichment is the secret ingredient that can turn chaos into calm, boredom into balance, and stress into satisfaction for your dog. But where do you begin? The world of enrichment is vast, and not every tool is created equal.
That’s why I’ve put together a list of my absolute favorite enrichment items — the ones that consistently create the biggest behavioral breakthroughs with my clients. From calming snuffle mats to challenging puzzle toys, these aren’t just distractions — they’re carefully chosen tools that tap into your dog’s natural instincts and keep their mind active.
Let’s start with one of the most versatile, beginner-friendly options: the snuffle mat.
Heads up: This post may contain Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase something I’ve shared, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). I only recommend tools and products I personally use or love. Read my full disclaimer here
🧩 1. Snuffle Mat – A Nose-Driven Treasure Hunt
Snuffle mats are one of my favorite low-effort, high-reward enrichment tools for dogs. At first glance, they might just look like a colorful mat with fabric strips, but to your dog, it’s an exciting treasure hunt.
Why Snuffle Mats Work So Well
Dogs are natural foragers. In the wild, they would spend hours sniffing, hunting, and foraging for food. Even though our modern dogs have food conveniently placed in a bowl, their instinct to search, sniff, and problem-solve is still very much alive. Snuffle mats tap into this instinct.
How It Works:
Treats or kibble are hidden among the fabric strips of the mat.
Your dog uses their nose to sniff out the hidden food, searching and foraging just like they would in nature.
This engages their strongest sense — their sense of smell — which is directly linked to their brain’s pleasure and calming centers.
Why I Love It:
Snuffle mats are perfect for a variety of situations:
✅ Calming Anxiety: For anxious or high-energy dogs, the slow, focused action of sniffing has a naturally calming effect on the nervous system.
✅ Mental Stimulation Without Overload: It keeps dogs busy without overwhelming them, making it great for decompression after a stressful event.
✅ Slow Feeding for Fast Eaters: For dogs who inhale their food in seconds, using a snuffle mat as a slow feeder forces them to slow down, which can prevent digestive issues and bloating.
✅ Pre-Crate Calm: I love using snuffle mats as part of a pre-crate routine. It helps dogs shift from active energy to a calmer state before settling in their crate.
Pro Tips for Snuffle Mat Success:
Start Easy: For beginners, leave some treats visible to encourage them to sniff. Gradually increase the challenge as they get the hang of it.
Switch Up the Scents: Rotate the types of treats you use to keep your dog interested. Tiny pieces of freeze-dried liver, shredded chicken, or kibble all work great.
Supervise First: Especially with puppies or heavy chewers, keep an eye on your dog to make sure they don’t try to chew the mat itself.
Wash Regularly: Snuffle mats can collect drool and food residue. Make sure to wash them regularly to keep them fresh.
My Top Snuffle Mat Recommendations:
👉 Snuffle mat that turns into a ball
👉 Snuffle mat with suction to prevent moving
👉 Silicon Snuffle Mat
👉 Interactive large Snuffle Mat
👉 Standard Snuffle Mat
🧩 2. Lick Mats – A Calming Sensory Experience
Lick mats are one of my go-to tools for helping dogs self-soothe, relax, and release pent-up nervous energy. At first glance, they might seem like a simple textured mat, but to a dog, they’re a sensory experience that can transform their mood.
Why Lick Mats Work So Well
Licking is a natural, calming behavior for dogs. It triggers the release of endorphins — the body’s natural feel-good hormones — which can help reduce anxiety and create a sense of comfort. Lick mats turn this natural behavior into a focused, rewarding experience.
How It Works:
Spread a soft, dog-safe treat over the textured surface of the mat. This can include peanut butter, canned dog food, goat milk yogurt, pumpkin puree, or baby food (as long as it’s free of harmful ingredients like xylitol).
The texture of the mat creates a challenge, encouraging your dog to lick slowly and thoroughly, extending the calming experience.
Freezing the mat can increase the challenge and provide a cooling effect — perfect for hot days or stressful situations.
Why I Love It:
Lick mats are incredibly versatile and can be used in many situations:
✅ Calming Anxiety: Whether it’s during fireworks, a thunderstorm, or when you leave the house, a lick mat can provide a soothing distraction.
✅ Post-Training Cooldown: After a high-energy training session, a lick mat can help your dog shift from an excited state to a calm, relaxed one.
✅ Crate Comfort: For dogs who are nervous about being crated, offering a lick mat can turn the crate into a positive, comforting space.
✅ Grooming Distraction: Lick mats can also be a lifesaver during nail trims, baths, or brushing — keeping your dog calmly distracted.
Pro Tips for Lick Mat Success:
Choose the Right Spread: Avoid anything toxic to dogs (like chocolate, xylitol, or overly salty foods). Safe options include plain peanut butter, canned pumpkin, cottage cheese, or wet dog food.
Freeze for a Challenge: For an extended calming experience, spread the treat on the mat and pop it in the freezer for a few hours. This is especially helpful during stressful events like fireworks or when you leave the house.
Supervise Initially: Make sure your dog doesn’t try to chew or tear the mat. Once they understand it’s for licking, this is usually not an issue.
Use in Rotation: Lick mats are amazing, but overusing them can make them lose their calming effect. Rotate them with other enrichment tools to keep your dog interested.
Clean Regularly: Wash your lick mat after each use to keep it hygienic — most are dishwasher-safe, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
My Top Lick Mat Recommendations:
👉 Lick Mat Wobble for movement
👉 Lick Mat for the tub or vertical surfaces
👉 Standard Lick Mat for flat surfaces
👉 Lick bowl with raised edges
👉 Lick cup with tall sides
🧠 3. Puzzle Toys – Engaging Your Dog’s Problem-Solving Skills
Puzzle toys are one of the most powerful tools for engaging your dog’s mind. Unlike basic chew toys, puzzle toys require your dog to think, plan, and experiment — all of which provide incredible mental stimulation.
Why Puzzle Toys Are So Effective
Dogs are natural problem-solvers. In the wild, they would have to figure out how to access food, navigate terrain, and interact with their environment. Puzzle toys tap into this natural intelligence, offering a safe, enriching way for them to exercise their minds.
How Puzzle Toys Work:
These toys typically involve hidden treats or kibble, which can only be accessed by solving a series of steps.
Common puzzle mechanisms include:
Sliding Pieces: Dogs must use their nose or paws to move panels and reveal treats.
Rotating Discs: They must figure out how to spin or turn pieces to release the food.
Flip Compartments: Dogs must lift, nudge, or push flaps to uncover hidden treats.
Gravity-Powered Systems: Some puzzles release treats as the dog nudges or rolls them in a specific way.
Why I Love Puzzle Toys:
Puzzle toys are incredibly versatile and can be used in countless situations:
✅ Mental Stimulation: Perfect for rainy days or when your dog is stuck indoors.
✅ Building Confidence: Dogs who struggle with anxiety or low confidence can gain a sense of achievement by figuring out the puzzle.
✅ Training Focus and Patience: Regular use of puzzle toys can help dogs develop impulse control, especially if they’re prone to “demand barking” out of boredom.
✅ Supervised Confinement Time: If your dog needs to be crated or confined for any reason, puzzle toys can turn this into a positive experience.
Trainer Tips for Puzzle Toy Success:
Choose Adjustable Difficulty: Start with an easy puzzle and gradually increase the difficulty as your dog becomes more confident. Some puzzles have removable pieces or adjustable levels.
Rotate Puzzle Toys: Avoid leaving puzzle toys out all the time. Rotate them to keep your dog interested and prevent them from becoming too easy.
Supervise at First: Make sure your dog understands how to use the puzzle without becoming frustrated. This is especially important for puppies or dogs who are new to puzzles.
Watch for Chewing: Some dogs may become too excited and try to chew the puzzle itself. If this happens, gently redirect them to the puzzle’s intended use.
Use a Variety of Treats: Experiment with different treats or kibble to keep your dog excited about solving the puzzle. For an added challenge, use a mix of high-value treats and regular kibble.
End on a Win: Make sure your dog always ends their puzzle session with success, even if that means you help them a little. This builds confidence and keeps them excited for the next puzzle.
My Top Puzzle Toy Recommendations:
👉 Tornado Treat puzzle toy
👉 Lickin’ Layers puzzle toy
👉 Twister Treat puzzle toy
👉 Challenge Slider puzzle toy
👉 Tower of Treats puzzle toy
🦴 4. Long-Lasting Chews – A Natural Way to Calm and Soothe Your Dog
Long-lasting chews are one of the most powerful enrichment tools for dogs — they offer more than just something to gnaw on. They provide a calming, focused activity that taps into your dog’s natural instincts, helping them release stress, reduce anxiety, and satisfy their urge to chew.
Why Chewing is So Important for Dogs
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs — it’s soothing, mentally engaging, and even has health benefits. For some dogs, especially high-energy or anxious ones, a good chew session can be the difference between a calm, happy dog and one who is bouncing off the walls.
Benefits of Chewing:
Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Chewing releases calming endorphins, helping your dog self-soothe.
Promotes Dental Health: The natural abrasive action helps remove plaque and tartar, promoting cleaner teeth.
Satisfies Instinctual Needs: Chewing is a natural instinct — especially for puppies, working breeds, and high-drive dogs.
Prevents Destructive Behavior: By providing an appropriate outlet, you reduce the chances of your dog chewing furniture, shoes, or other household items.
Enhances Focus and Calm: For reactive or overstimulated dogs, a chew session can help bring them back to neutral.
Trainer Insight: Why I Recommend Daily Chew Time
For dogs who struggle with anxiety, overstimulation, or reactivity, daily chew time can be a game-changer. It’s a simple, natural way to help them regulate their nervous system without overexciting them. In fact, I often recommend giving a long-lasting chew after a walk or training session to help your dog transition from excitement to calm.
Safety First: Choosing the Right Chew
Not all chews are safe, and it’s essential to choose the right one for your dog’s size, chewing style, and dietary needs.
❌ Chews to Avoid:
Rawhide: While popular, rawhide can splinter, expand in the stomach, and pose a choking hazard.
Cooked Bones: These can splinter easily and cause serious internal injuries.
Cheap, Mass-Produced Chews: Many of these are treated with chemicals or artificial flavors that can upset your dog’s stomach.
✅ Safer, Healthier Chew Options:
Himalayan Yak Chews: Hard, digestible, and long-lasting.
Bully Sticks: Fully digestible, single-ingredient, and great for most dogs.
Beef Tendons: Natural, tough, and great for dental health.
Dehydrated Fish Skins: Excellent for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Antlers: Natural, durable options (but should be monitored, as they can be too hard for aggressive chewers).
Trainer Tips for Safe Chew Time:
✅ Always Supervise: Especially with new chews or for dogs who are gulpers.
✅ Use a Chew Holder: Prevents the last small piece from becoming a choking hazard.
✅ Monitor for Splintering: If a chew begins to splinter, replace it.
✅ Start with Short Sessions: For new chews, introduce them in short sessions to ensure your dog’s stomach can handle them.
✅ Rotate Chew Options: Avoid over-reliance on one type of chew to prevent boredom or dietary imbalances.
When to Use Long-Lasting Chews:
During Confinement: If your dog needs to be crated or restricted, a chew can help keep them calm.
After Training or Walks: A perfect way to help your dog transition from excitement to calm.
For Anxiety Relief: During thunderstorms, fireworks, or any stressful situation.
As a Reward: For quiet, calm behavior or after a successful training session.
My Top Chew Recommendations:
Here are some dog-approved favorites that I personally love, paired with tools that make them safer and longer lasting:
Himalayan Yak Chews – Hard, long-lasting, and made from simple ingredients
👉 Favorite Yak Chew
Yak Chew Holder – Prevents your dog from swallowing the last nub
👉 Yak Chew Safety Holder
👉 Yak Chew Jughead Holder
Bully Sticks – Great for most chewers and highly digestible
👉 Favorite Bully Stick
Bully Stick Holder – Stops your dog from choking on the last bit
👉 Bully Stick Safety Holder
Collagen Sticks – A great bully stick alternative that’s easier on the tummy
👉 Collagen Chew
Dried Fish Skins – Crunchy, smelly, and full of omega-3s—dogs go wild for them
👉 Fish Skin Chew
Split Elk Antlers – Super long-lasting; best for light to moderate chewers (use caution—very hard and can crack teeth in aggressive chewers)
👉 Recommended Antler Chew
Outward Hound Dogwood Chew Stick – A durable, mess-free alternative to real sticks
👉 Outward Hound Dogwood Chew Stick
Gorilla Wood Dog Chew — A long-lasting chew made out of real coffee wood
👉 Gorilla Wood Dog Chew
Petsafe Busy Buddy — This long lasting option does have raw hide, but the way you position the rings in the toy makes it safe and long-lasting
👉 Busy Buddy Jack Toy
👉 Busy Buddy Bristle Bone
👉 Busy Buddy Refills
🧊 5. Frozen Stuffable Toys – The Ultimate Calm and Focus Tool for Your Dog
Stuffable enrichment toys (like Kongs, Toppls, and similar designs) are one of my favorite tools for creating calm, focus, and healthy engagement in dogs. They’re versatile, customizable, and can be used for everything from training to stress relief.
Why Frozen Stuffable Toys Work So Well
These toys combine multiple enrichment benefits into one simple tool:
Mental Stimulation: Your dog has to figure out how to lick, chew, and manipulate the toy to get the food out.
Self-Soothing: The repetitive licking helps release calming hormones (like endorphins), which can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Healthy Chewing Outlet: It satisfies your dog’s natural chewing instincts without damaging your furniture.
Extended Engagement: Freezing the toy makes it last longer, giving your dog a sustained activity rather than a quick snack.
How to Use Frozen Stuffable Toys Effectively
Choose the Right Toy: Make sure it’s durable and appropriately sized for your dog. Kongs and Toppls are popular, but there are many other stuffable toy options.
Fill with Dog-Safe Ingredients: Some of my go-to fillings include:
Plain Greek Yogurt: High in protein and soothing for most dogs.
Canned Pumpkin: Great for digestion and low in calories.
Peanut Butter (Xylitol-Free): A classic favorite (but use in moderation).
Mashed Banana or Sweet Potato: Natural sweetness dogs love.
Wet Dog Food: A simple, balanced option that can be easily packed in.
Goat Milk or Bone Broth: Pour a little in for added flavor and freeze it for a cooling treat.
Layer for Added Challenge: Create a multi-layered experience by starting with a few treats or kibble at the bottom, followed by a layer of peanut butter, then a layer of yogurt or wet food on top.
Freeze for Longer Lasting Fun: Pop it in the freezer for a few hours (or overnight) to create a long-lasting, cooling treat.
Supervise at First: Make sure your dog understands how to use the toy without chewing it apart.
Safety Tips for Frozen Stuffable Toys
Always use dog-safe ingredients (avoid chocolate, artificial sweeteners, grapes/raisins, or anything toxic to dogs).
Make sure the toy is durable enough for your dog’s chewing strength.
Supervise your dog, especially the first few times they use it, to ensure they don’t try to destroy it.
Clean the toy regularly—residue can build up and cause bacterial growth.
Trainer Tips for Maximum Benefit:
✅ Crate Training Support: Use a frozen stuffable toy as a calming tool when introducing your dog to their crate. This turns the crate into a positive, relaxing space.
✅ Post-Training Calm: After a high-energy play session or training, offer a frozen toy to help your dog transition from excitement to calm.
✅ Separation Anxiety Relief: Give your dog a frozen toy as you leave the house, helping them associate your departure with something positive.
✅ Multi-Dog Households: If you have multiple dogs, ensure each has their own toy to prevent resource guarding.
My Favorite Stuffable Toys:
Classic Kong – A durable rubber toy with a hollow center; great for all stages of dogs
👉 Favorite Kong for strong chewers
West Paw Toppl – Softer and easier for puppies or flat-faced dogs; two can connect to form a tougher challenge
👉 Check out the Toppl
👉 Toppl stopper for freezing liquids
Yipetor Frozen Treat Dispensing Toy– Comes with freezer mold to create your own frozen treats
👉 View the Yipetor toy
Petsafe Chilly Penguin – Stuff with your favorite frozen treats for long lasting entertainment
👉Shop for the Chilly Penguin
Chew King Frozen Feeding Toy — Great option for strong chewers
👉 Check out the Chew King Frozen Feeder
Creative Stuffing Ideas
You can keep it simple, or go full gourmet. Here are ideas that work great frozen:
Base Fillers:
Soaked kibble mash – Soak your dog’s kibble in hot water or bone broth for 1–2 hours until soft, then mash and mix with other ingredients
Plain Greek yogurt or goat milk yogurt
Canned food, raw blends, or lightly cooked meat mash
Mashed pumpkin, sweet potato, banana, or butternut squash
Cottage cheese (small amounts)
Unsweetened applesauce
Add-Ins for Texture & Surprise:
Crushed freeze-dried liver treats
A drizzle of unsweetened peanut butter (xylitol-free!)
Baby carrots or apple slices poking out
Small pieces of boiled chicken
Kibble or crunchy treats layered in the center for surprise crunch
A frozen dog-safe bone broth cube in the middle
💡 Pro Tip: Plug the small hole of the toy with a dab of peanut butter or mashed banana to seal it before filling. This prevents leaks while it freezes.
Make a Batch & Store in the Freezer
I always recommend prepping multiple toys at once and freezing them in a zip-top bag. That way you’ve always got one ready for:
Crate time
Zoom meetings
Wind-down time after a walk
Distracting during thunderstorms or fireworks
Calm enrichment during your dog’s “witching hour”
Want More Ideas? Try These Advanced Filling Combinations:
“Puppy Sundae”: A base of plain yogurt, a spoonful of peanut butter, and a drizzle of goat milk.
“Digestive Delight”: A layer of canned pumpkin, topped with a small amount of plain Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of crushed kibble.
“Summer Smoothie”: Mashed banana mixed with a bit of goat milk, frozen for a refreshing treat.
“Training Recovery Blend”: Wet dog food mixed with a little bone broth for a savory, calming experience.
🥣 6. Slow Feeders & Treat-Dispensing Toys – Turn Mealtime into Enrichment
Does your dog inhale their food like it’s a race? Or get bored five minutes after eating? Slow feeders and food-dispensing toys are a game-changer for transforming mealtime into an engaging, brain-boosting activity.
Why Slow Feeders and Treat-Dispensing Toys Are Essential:
Mental Stimulation: Your dog has to figure out how to access the food, which activates problem-solving skills.
Supports Digestion: Slows down eating, reducing the risk of choking, bloating, and digestive discomfort.
Reduces Boredom: Keeps your dog engaged longer, preventing them from feeling restless after meals.
Builds Calm Focus: By working for their food, dogs naturally become more focused, calm, and satisfied.
Perfect for Rainy Days: When outdoor exercise isn’t an option, these tools offer mental exercise without the extra physical strain.
Types of Slow Feeders and Treat-Dispensing Toys I Recommend:
1. Classic Slow Feeder Bowls:
Designed with ridges, spirals, or maze patterns that force your dog to eat at a slower pace.
Ideal for dogs who inhale their food or get post-meal zoomies.
Easy to clean and great for both wet and dry food.
2. Treat-Dispensing Balls and Cubes:
These toys release small treats or kibble as your dog nudges, rolls, or paws at them.
Excellent for dogs who love to chase or bat at toys, providing both mental and physical engagement.
3. Puzzle Slow Feeders:
Combine slow feeding with problem-solving elements, like sliding panels, hidden compartments, or rotating pieces.
Dogs must solve puzzles to access their food, making mealtime a brain-boosting activity.
Creative Slow Feeder Bowl Ideas:
Mix wet food with kibble for a stickier, longer-lasting challenge.
Add a drizzle of goat milk, bone broth, or a small amount of peanut butter for added flavor.
Alternate between slow feeder bowls and treat-dispensing toys to keep your dog interested.
Try freezing the filled toy (like a stuffed Kong) for a longer-lasting challenge.
4. Adjustable Treat-Dispensing Toys:
These allow you to control the difficulty by adjusting the size of the treat openings.
Perfect for dogs who get bored easily or need an extra challenge.
Pro Tips for Maximum Benefit:
Start Easy, Then Increase Difficulty: If your dog is new to these, begin with a simple slow feeder or easy treat-dispensing toy. Gradually introduce more complex puzzles.
Measure Your Dog’s Food: To prevent overfeeding, use their regular meal portion as the filling for these toys.
Supervise at First: Make sure your dog doesn’t become frustrated or attempt to destroy the toy.
Clean Regularly: Residue can build up quickly, leading to bacteria growth. Always wash slow feeders and treat-dispensing toys between uses.
💡 Trainer Insight:
If your dog struggles with anxiety or overexcitement, using a slow feeder can help them practice calm focus. It engages their natural foraging instincts without overstimulation. For dogs who tend to gulp their food and experience post-meal zoomies, this method is a lifesaver.
Favorite Treat-Dispensing Toys & Slow Feeders
Here are some of my go-to products that make mealtime more enriching:
Kong Wobbler – A classic weighted toy that wobbles and dispenses kibble with each nudge
👉 Check out the Kong Wobbler
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Bowl – Designed with ridges and spirals to slow down fast eaters
👉 Explore Slow Feeder Bowls
Omega Paw Tricky Treat Ball – Soft and easy to roll, great for dogs who love chasing their food
👉 Our Treat Ball Recommendation
Starmark Bob-a-Lot Food Releasing Toy – The bob-a-lot is a great slow releasing wobble toy for kibble and treats
👉 Shop Starmark Bob-a-Lot
Outward Hound Planet Dog Snoop – A soft treat-dispensing toy that encourages nosing to release kibble or treats
👉 Check out the Snoop
💡 Pro Tip: Rotate a few different food puzzles throughout the week to keep things exciting and prevent frustration from repetition. Start with easier ones and gradually build difficulty.
🧺 7. DIY Enrichment Ideas – Brain-Boosting Fun Without Breaking the Bank
Enrichment doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, some of the best mental stimulation for your dog can be created with everyday items you already have around the house. Whether you’re just getting started or want to mix up your dog’s routine, these DIY ideas are perfect for keeping their mind sharp and their body engaged.
Why DIY Enrichment Works:
Activates Natural Instincts: Sniffing, foraging, and problem-solving are natural dog behaviors that boost confidence.
Budget-Friendly: No need for fancy toys—just a bit of creativity.
Customizable: Easily adjust difficulty to suit your dog’s skill level and energy needs.
Perfect for All Dogs: Whether you have a high-energy puppy, a curious adult, or a senior dog, these activities can be modified to fit.
Easy DIY Enrichment Ideas to Try Today:
1. The Towel Roll-Up (Scent Enrichment)
How to Set It Up: Sprinkle kibble or small treats onto a towel. Roll it up, folding or twisting it as you go.
Challenge Level: Adjust how tightly you roll the towel for more difficulty.
Why It Works: It taps into your dog’s natural foraging instincts and keeps them focused.
2. Muffin Tin Treasure Hunt (Problem-Solving Enrichment)
How to Set It Up: Place a small treat in each cup of a muffin tin, then cover each cup with a tennis ball.
Challenge Level: Use fewer tennis balls to make it easier, or fill each cup with different types of treats for variety.
Why It Works: Your dog must figure out how to remove the balls to access the treats.
3. Box Destruction Game (Destructive Enrichment)
How to Set It Up: Hide small treats in an empty cardboard box (or multiple boxes) and let your dog tear it apart to find them.
Challenge Level: Nest smaller boxes inside larger ones for extra layers of fun.
Safety Note: Only use boxes without staples or tape. Supervise to ensure your dog doesn’t eat the cardboard.
4. Sniffing Adventure (Scent Tracking Enrichment)
How to Set It Up: Scatter treats in the grass or around a room, encouraging your dog to sniff them out.
Challenge Level: Gradually make the treats harder to find (under furniture, behind objects).
Why It Works: This taps into your dog’s incredible sense of smell, providing both mental and sensory stimulation.
5. Hide-and-Seek Treats (Mental Mapping Enrichment)
How to Set It Up: Hide treats around your house, but keep them in safe, accessible spots.
Challenge Level: Make your dog wait in another room while you hide the treats, then give them a release cue.
Why It Works: This combines mental mapping with their natural foraging instinct.
Pro Tips for DIY Enrichment Success:
Rotate Ideas: Switch up these activities to keep your dog from getting bored.
Supervise at First: Make sure your dog doesn’t become frustrated or try to eat non-food items.
Adjust for Skill Level: If your dog is new to these, start with simple versions and gradually increase the difficulty.
Safety First: Only use safe, non-toxic materials (no plastic bags, small parts, or anything they could swallow).
DIY enrichment is not just a fun way to pass the time—it’s a powerful tool for building your dog’s confidence. If you have a shy or anxious dog, these games can help them learn to problem-solve and think independently without feeling overwhelmed.
🐶 Closing Thoughts – Transform Your Dog’s World with Enrichment
Enrichment isn’t just about keeping your dog busy—it’s about unlocking their potential, soothing their nervous system, and giving them a richer, more balanced life. Whether you have a high-energy pup, a shy rescue, or a curious adult dog, enrichment can transform their behavior, boost their confidence, and deepen your bond.
But remember, it’s not just about having a box of toys—it’s about creating an ever-evolving experience. I recommend rotating toys and enrichment activities every few days to keep things fresh and engaging. Pay attention to your dog’s preferences, adjusting difficulty or type based on their personality and needs.
If you’re unsure where to start, pick one or two of the options above and introduce them during quiet times or after a walk. Watch for the subtle changes—how your dog’s focus improves, how they settle more easily, how they light up with excitement when a new puzzle appears.
Enrichment is more than just a strategy—it’s a mindset. It’s about understanding your dog’s instincts, supporting their mental and emotional well-being, and making every day a little more joyful.
Because a fulfilled dog is a calm, confident, and happy dog.
🐾 Want Personalized Help With Your Dog?
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, reactivity, or just looking to create more calm and connection in your daily life with your dog, I’d love to support you.
I offer both in-person training sessions (North Metro Atlanta) and virtual consultations for clients across the U.S. — so no matter where you are, we can work together to create a custom plan that brings balance to your home.
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Let’s build a training and enrichment routine that actually works for your dog — and feels good for you too.
👉 Click here to book a session or learn more
I’d Love to Hear From You!
Have you tried any of these enrichment tools with your dog?
Do you have a favorite toy, trick, or DIY activity that your pup goes crazy for?
👇 Share your thoughts in the comments below!
I read every one and love hearing how other dog families are bringing calm, focus, and fun into their daily routines.
About the Author
Jackie Audette is the founder and head trainer at Channeled Canine Coaching based out of Alpharetta, GA, and virtually servicing clients worldwide. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and a Certified Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI), with over a decade of experience working with pet dogs, service dogs, and complex behavior cases. Jackie holds a bachelors degree in Animal Science and specializes in modern, reward-based training that builds trust and real-life results.
