We know a lot more than we used to about our canine companions’ mental abilities. They are active, smart, and social beings. We know that humans need enrichment or we can become depressed, anxious, or moody, but there is ever growing research that says our animals are in the same boat.
Enrichment can be many things – essentially it could be anything that stimulates natural behavior, but it should always be free from fear and pain. Enrichment comes in many forms: tactile, social, problem solving, auditory (radio), movement (agility), feeding toys, new toys, scavenger hunts for food, ripping paper up, etc.
The most common form of enrichment for dogs, which many of us think of first, is a walk! However, for some dogs a walk in the neighborhood is too scary. Tailor the experience to your particular dog. The same goes for dog parks. All dogs don’t have to like going to a party, just like all humans don’t like large social events. Enrichment should build confidence by engaging your dog at a level they are successful. We don’t start learning math in calculus! Start where they are winning, and build from there. Like everything else in life, enjoy the process. Sometimes it’s a mess to clean up, but your dog’s smile makes it worth your effort!
Share your enrichment ideas with us. We are always interested in learning new ways to give our dogs a better life!
Active Paws
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Class themes: August: Agility; September: Parkour; October: Nose Work; November: Tricks & Performance.
