How to keep your dog happy and stimulated

Even if we can’t get out as much as we would like to explore new places with our dogs, we can still use enrichment to keep their environment novel, writes Kimberley Grundy.

Domesticated dogs have come a long way from their feral roots.

Our dogs are lucky, they have their basic needs met without having to lift a muscle. Their food is provided, there is always water, and they have a comfortable bed.

However, physically and behaviourally our dogs come from a different world. A feral dog would have spent around 70 per cent of their day hunting for food – this requires a significant amount of physical expenditure.

Because of this, many dogs are under stimulated, this can be a contributing factor to the development of behavioural problems.

One way in which we can expand our dog’s world without having to travel far, worry about social distancing, or even leave the house is through enrichment. Enrichment is a way of allowing our dogs to exhibit natural behaviours, in several ways;

Social enrichment – allowing our dogs to engage with other animals, other dogs, other people and possibly other animals.

Occupational enrichment – I am often caught saying to my clients that we want a dog who is employed. I suggest that we find dogs jobs related to the roles they were bred for.

Physical enrichment – this isn’t just about walks but also playing energetic games with our dogs so they are tired out but engaging with us.

Sensory enrichment – This is often overlooked. Our dogs’ sense of smell is so much more than we could ever comprehend. Using this hugely enriches our dog’s environment. Hiding food for them to search out, finding their toys, or finding you. We can use auditory enrichment through playing calming music for our dogs. Keep the music varied.

Nutritional enrichment – Giving toys stuffed with food allows our dogs to work for their dinner which allows for natural foraging behaviour. Be creative and have fun with enrichment – your dog will love you for it.