Top 10
enrichment activities
Licky mat
A licky mat is a textured feeding mat designed to keep dogs calm and mentally engaged while they lick soft foods like peanut butter, (dog safe), natural yogurt (xylitol free), or wet food spread across its surface.
The raised patterns make it take longer for dogs to eat, which helps slow down feeding and provides soothing, stress-relieving stimulation. Licky mats are often used to reduce anxiety, ease boredom, and distract dogs during grooming or bath time. Licking can stimulate serotonin (happy hormones)
Yak chews
A Yak chews are a long-lasting, natural dog treat made from hardened yak and cow milk. Originally inspired by traditional Himalayan recipes, these chews are durable and designed to satisfy a dog’s natural urge to chew.
They help support dental health by reducing plaque and tartar build up while keeping dogs mentally engaged. Yak chews are typically high in protein, low in fat, and free from artificial additives, making them a popular choice for a healthy, long-lasting reward.
Puzzle games
A dog puzzle game is an interactive activity designed to challenge your dog’s mind while keeping them engaged and entertained. These games encourage problem-solving by asking dogs to use their nose, paws, or mouth to uncover hidden treats or complete a task.
They’re great for mental stimulation, helping reduce boredom and build confidence, especially for curious or high-energy dogs. Best of all, puzzle games turn learning into play—rewarding your dog’s natural instincts with fun and tasty motivation 🐾
Kongs
A Kong is a durable rubber toy designed for dogs to chew, chase, and play with. It’s hollow in the centre, so you can stuff it with treats, natural yoghurt (xylitol free), or kibble to keep your dog mentally stimulated and entertained.
Kong's are often used to reduce boredom, ease anxiety, and encourage healthy chewing habits. They also come in different sizes and strengths to match your dog’s age and chewing style.
Snuffle mat
A snuffle mat is designed to engage their natural foraging instincts. It’s typically made of a fabric base with lots of soft fleece strips tied onto it, creating a textured surface where treats or kibble can be hidden.
Dogs use their nose and brain to sniff out the hidden food, which helps slow down fast eaters, provides mental stimulation, and offers a fun, rewarding activity—especially for indoor or rainy days. It’s a simple yet effective tool to keep your dog entertained and mentally sharp.
Find it game
Place a high-value reward (such as chicken or cheese) in your hand.
Open your hand and gently toss the treat across the floor while clearly saying the cue “find it.”
When your dog locates the treat, mark the behaviour with the word “yes” so they know they did the right thing.
Once your dog understands the cue “find it,” you can level up the game by hiding several treats around the room and encouraging them to search—turning it into a fun and rewarding scent game.
Yak Yeti
The Yak Yeti is a great option for dogs who breeze through enrichment activities too quickly. When your yak chew gets down to a size that could become a choking hazard, that’s the perfect time to use the Yak Yeti. Simply place the small piece of yak chew into the Yeti, microwave it for about 40–50 seconds, and it transforms into a light, puffed-up chew that’s safer and more satisfying.
You can also buy small yak pieces made specifically for the Yak Yeti, making it an easy and convenient enrichment upgrade for your dog. 🐶🦴
Cupcake tin game
Grab a cupcake baking tin and a set of tennis balls that are suitable for your dog’s size.
Place a high-value treat into each cup of the tin, then cover the treat with a tennis ball so it sits snugly inside and blocks access.
Once everything is set up, invite your dog over and let them figure out how to get the treats out. They may use their nose, paws, or mouth to remove the balls and uncover the rewards—great mental and physical enrichment!
Scent bags
Snuffle and Seek is a fun and enriching game to play with your dog. Simply hide the scent bags, then watch as your dog uses their nose to track them down—and reward them when they succeed! You can find these on amazon they are little blue bags
The box game
Get a cardboard box any clean box will do—shoebox, delivery box, etc. Remove tape or staples.
Drop a handful of your dog’s favourite treats into the box so they can smell them and find the treats.
Make it a bit challenging (optional):
Close the flaps loosely, add crumpled paper, towels, or smaller boxes inside. This turns it into a mini “puzzle" let them figure it out. Your dog will sniff, paw, nudge, or tear the box to get the treats. That’s the whole point—mental stimulation and fun.