If your dog is anything like mine, the change from fall to winter temps may have them retreating inside for a spot by the heater. While pup takes a minute to remember winter can be fun outdoors, here are a few ways to beat the boredom inside.
Mental Enrichment for Dogs
Beach season is over, and your doggo is thankful he can finally stop maintaining his beach bod. That doesn’t mean he has to stop using his beach towel though! Mix it into his daily routine through enrichment. Lay a towel (any towel is fine) out flat, and then spread his kibble on it. Roll up the towel and you’re done! Your dog will have to use his brain and tap into his foraging skills to figure out how to get their kibble out.
Physical Enrichment for Dogs
We’ve already talked playing Hide & Seek with your pup, but it was really awkward when you hid and Wrigley forgot to come seek you. Switch this game out for Find It, because we know your dog will definitely want to finish this game. Ask your dog for a stay, hide some treats, and then release her with “Find it!” Start off easy with hiding spots like on her bed or in the center of the floor. Once they get the hang of it, try places like under the rug or in her toy bin. Games like this will have your dog working on her impulse control until she’s released to use that nose to explore the environment.
Food Enrichment for Dogs
Do you remember the first time you tried deep dish pizza and it blew your mind? Your pup is getting bored of eating kibble for every meal, so mix it up by making a fun, seasonal treat for her! She’s got her chunky scarf and is ready to lean into her basic fall instinct, so get a pupkin spice latte in that paw. All you need is:
1 cup pumpkin puree
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup crushed ice
3 tablespoons coconut meat
1 tablespoon peanut butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Blend it up until it runs smooth, top with whipped cream (optional, but you know she wants it), and serve!
