Enrichment—activities stimulating a dog’s natural senses and behaviors like sniffing, chewing, and playing—is crucial for a happy, balanced life. You can easily boost daily mental stimulation using common household items, even during mealtimes. Here are a few simple, DIY ways to add enrichment to your dog’s routine: 

• DIY scavenger hunt: Hide treats or toys around the house for your dog to find. Use toilet paper rolls or egg cartons or to hide dry food or treats. Or fold up some in a towel to create a snufflemat! You could always switch the food for a toy.
• Training: Short, fun, and quick obedience sessions are the key to building focus. Because they require little space, you can easily turn everyday manners into games that make listening around distractions a breeze. 
• Frozen treats: Create easy, nutritious frozen treats for your dog by mixing dry or wet food with bone broth, yogurt, or water, then blending in dog-safe treats like mashed banana, blueberries, carrots, or peanut butter.
• Agility course: This will take some space or creativity but you can use simple objects like two chairs and a broom to teach dogs how to jump or blankets to act like a tunnel. These are especially stimulating for dogs who have never experienced any agility work before.
• Exploring outside: Let your dog sniff! Whether in the yard or on a walk, letting them explore through their nose provides vital mental stimulation. A “sniffari” tires them out more than a fast walk and turns every potty break into an enriching brain workout.

Above all, enrichment should be a blast for both you and your dog! If they aren’t enjoying it, feel free to switch up the reward, take a breather, or try a different activity altogether.