Enrichment is a valuable tool to use to make your dog’s training (and everyday life!) more rewarding and enjoyable. Games and toys that involve enrichment activities can engage the brain and get your pup’s body moving–but the key is to make sure you’re using enrichment properly with Fido.
First, you must understand what it is not–enrichment is not a replacement for behavior training, nor should it be used constantly as a way for your dog to just entertain themselves. The word itself indicates that it is taking something already there and improving it to make it even better; it’s not a substitute for proper training or for time spent interacting with your dog.
We recommend teaching your dog basic skills that are crucial for happy and safe family life–training such as sit, leave it, recall, and not jumping on counters or guests are just a few. These commands will teach your pup to be a well-behaved member of your family without the need to always be monitoring and entertaining them. This training in itself is a great way to stimulate Fido’s body and keep him from getting bored or hyperactive.
Even once you’re progressing well with training, you should strive to incorporate enrichment activities that involve you (as opposed to relying solely on items like a snuffle mat or puzzle toy, in which your presence isn’t needed). Building this connection through fun games with your dog will strengthen your relationship and make other aspects of your life together more enjoyable. Teaching your dog fun tricks is a great method of enrichment that gets you involved. You can also incorporate games into your training–for example, hide some treats under cups or other objects, then let your pup play “hide and seek”. Once they find a treat though, tell them to “leave it” or “wait” for a few seconds, before allowing them to have the treat. Then give them lots of praise! Involving yourself in their enrichment reminds them that they need to maintain focus on you, even when you’re having fun or relaxing. They’ll look to you as more than just an annoying person who gives them commands all the time–you’ll be a friend they know and trust. Having this bond will make a big impact on how well the rest of your training goes.
That being said, self-play enrichment games like searching for treats in a ball pit or rolling a treat dispenser ball still have value in the right time and place. During dreary weeks when you haven’t been able to get exercise outside, enrichment games can be helpful in tiring your pup out. They’re also great for when Fido is recovering from surgery and isn’t allowed to do strenuous activity like a walk yet. You can even use them on occasion when you need your dog to entertain themselves while you have a Zoom meeting or need space to cook dinner–so long as this does not become your solution whenever your pup is being energetic or attention-seeking.
Enrichment plays an important role in behavior training and bond building with your dog. When used properly, you’ll find that both you and Fido enjoy the time you spend together even more. If you need more in-depth help in dog training and obedience, call the experts at Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training. We have helped hundreds of Sarasota and Bradenton area dog owners have a more fulfilling relationship wth their best furry friend.
