A Tired Dog is a Happy Dog
By Leeandra Mifsud Mizzi
In the world of dog ownership, ensuring the happiness and well-being of our furry companions is paramount. One key aspect often overlooked, especially locally, is canine enrichment. Canine enrichment is a term that encompasses activities and strategies that stimulate both the mind and body of our four-legged friends. The result: tired pups, which in turn also very often means happy owners.
Canine enrichment is more than just a trendy concept. It is a fundamental element in fostering a balanced and contented dog. In other words, it tires a dog out, without the need of using excessive exercise. This comes particularly handy with young puppies when exercise may need to be limited due to the risk of potential joint disease or when puppies are bursting with energy but cannot be taken out because of their vaccination status.
The possibilities in Canine Enrichment are endless. The only limit is your imagination. There is no right or wrong way of doing it, but here are a few things I like to keep in mind.
Top doggy tip number one: No free lunches! Get those tails wagging for their meals. Spice things up with Kong toys or similar toys. Fill them up and freeze them to increase the challenge. The trick is to start slow and increase the difficulty as your dog gets used to them. Don't have those? Get creative! Raid your house for treasures – maybe punch some holes in a squeaky clean detergent bottle, drop kibble inside, and let the spinning feast begin. You can also go artsy and crafty and craft a snuffle mat, tucking in tasty surprises within. Another tip is to put kibbles in a muffin tray and cover them with tennis balls. Let your dog figure out how to get the treats. Dog puzzles are also commercially available in most leading pet stores.
On with tip number two: Teach your doggo some tricks. Teach them to get a beer from the fridge or teach them to help you out with your laundry. If this seems like too much, teach them basic obedience. Bottom line is, working their brains tires them out, so hop on Youtube and watch some tutorials on how to teach them tricks.
Finally don't underestimate the power of a good old raw meaty bone. Every now and then life gets busy and you may find you don't always have time to prepare activities. Perhaps you have a pressing deadline or perhaps you are unwell. Then just hop over to the butcher's and ask for a raw bone. Watch while your dog gnaws away in satisfaction and sleeps for hours once it's done.
Essentially canine enrichment is a hidden gem. It ensures not just tired tails but also contentment. It's more than a trend; it's the cornerstone of a harmonious pet life. Dogs, by nature, are intelligent and curious beings. Without proper mental and physical stimulation, they may exhibit unwanted behaviours due to boredom or excess energy. Enrichment activities cater to a dog's natural instincts, providing outlets for exploration and engagement and subsequently avoiding all of this.