Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 1: Using Your Dog's Natural Instincts To Build Variety And Engagement #314

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Oct 24, 2025

Discover the true essence of dog enrichment beyond just toys like Kongs. Learn how to create meaningful experiences that cater to your dog's emotional, mental, and instinctual needs. Explore the importance of variety and choice while avoiding monotonous routines. Delve into the eight stages of the predatory sequence and how to design activities for each stage, from snuffle mats to chase games. This episode is packed with practical tips for enhancing your dog's life and fostering a deeper connection between you both.

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INSIGHT

Enrichment Is Multi-Dimensional

Enrichment means creating varied experiences that meet emotional, social, instinctive, mental, and physical needs.
No single activity meets every need so variety and balance matter.

ADVICE

Avoid Passive Or Dangerous Activities

Avoid passive or dangerous activities like leaving the TV on or using laser pointers.
Choose enriching activities that give dogs agency and are safe and engaging.

ANECDOTE

Kong Versus Ice Cream Nirvana

Susan compares daily Kong treats to eating an over-the-top ice cream mix that loses its magic when repeated.
She uses this to show that novelty and variety keep enrichment valuable.

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If you've ever thought a stuffed Kong was enough to keep your dog enriched, you might be in for a surprise. Enrichment is about more than keeping our dogs busy. It's about creating experiences that meet their emotional, mental, social, physical, and instinctive needs in ways that truly matter to them. In this episode, you'll discover how everyday activities can turn into meaningful experiences that build your dog's confidence and connection with you while giving them a happier, more enriched life.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• What enrichment really means and why it's essential for every dog. • How true enrichment goes beyond keeping dogs busy. • The difference between meaningful enrichment and passive distraction. • Why variety, choice, and balance matter for your dog's wellbeing. • Common misconceptions about enrichment, including TV, laser pointers, and dog parks. • How to recognize when enrichment becomes monotonous or overwhelming. • The eight stages of the canine predatory sequence and how each relates to enrichment. • Examples of enrichment activities for every stage, from orienting and locating to chasing and consuming. • Safety tips for enrichment toys, puzzles, and play. • How to meet your dog's instinctive needs through simple, creative ideas at home. • A simple homework exercise to help you create your dog's personal enrichment list.

Resources:

1. *West Paw Zogoflex Toppl Treat Dispensing Dog Toy Puzzle - https://geni.us/toppl 2. *KONG Classic Stuffable Dog Toy - https://geni.us/kong-toy 3. YouTube Playlist: Stop Barking Dogs! Why Dogs Bark And Anti-Bark Action Plan With Susan Garrett - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLphRRSxcMHy0bpnsTRDCxIC7NrkOuWYsU&si=jN8_e1S-t18bR_Nw 4. Podcast Episode 215: What Your Destructive, Lunging, Nipping Or Hyper Dog Or Puppy Is Trying To Teach You - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/215/ 5. Podcast Episode 85: Understanding Your Dog's Sit: LWT - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/85/ 6. Podcast Episode 232: Canine Predatory Motor Sequence: Understand Your Dog's Prey Drive To Enrich Your Life Together - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/232/ 7. Podcast Episode 71: Pro Dog Trainer's Secret to Help Your Naughty Dog - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/71/ 8. Nina Ottosson Food Puzzles - https://www.nina-ottosson.com/products/all-products/ 9. Podcast Episode 272: 10 Engaging Chase Games To Increase Your Picky Eater Dog's Food Drive - https://dogsthat.com/transcript/episode-272/ 10. Podcast Episode 264: Shaping Tips For Timid, Shy, Softer Or Fearful Dogs To Create Enthusiastic Learners - https://dogsthat.com/transcript/episode-264/ 11. Podcast Episode 89: Why Dogs Should Not Tug: The Truth Revealed - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/89/ 12. YouTube Video: DIY Puppy Bombs: Easy & Affordable Enrichment Toy for Puppies - https://youtu.be/UBveJe2C2dA 13. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/fJUvfrU_zP4

*Amazon Links Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Susan only recommends products she uses herself, and all opinions expressed here are her own. The link above is an affiliate link that, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission if you decide to buy from it. Thank you!