5 Easy Enrichment Ideas You Can Do at Home

5 Easy Enrichment Ideas You Can Do at Home

5 Easy and Enriching Activities You Can Do at Home with Your Dog

Keeping your dog mentally and physically stimulated is just as important as regular walks and belly rubs. Luckily, dog enrichment doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. With a little creativity (and some treats), you can keep your pup entertained right at home. Here are five fun and easy dog enrichment ideas to try today — plus some of our favorite toys available at Contigo Dogs!

1. The Surprise Box: Shred, Sniff, and Snack

🧠 What it is: Grab a cardboard box, fill it with crumpled paper, and hide treats or kibble inside. Let your dog sniff, dig, and shred to their heart’s content.

📦 Why it works: This taps into your dog's natural foraging instincts and provides satisfying sensory fun.

How To Make a DIY Dig Box for Dogs | Enrichment | Dogs Trust

2. Scent Work Games: Let That Nose Work!

🧠 What it is: Hide treats or toys around a room or the backyard and encourage your dog to "find it." Start easy, then gradually increase the difficulty.

👃 Why it works: Dogs experience the world through scent — scent work tires them out in the best way possible.

3 Simple Scent Work Activities for Canine Enrichment - Animal Behavior College

3. Trick Training: Bonding with Brainpower

🧠 What it is: Teach your dog a new trick — like spin, high-five, or crawl. Use treats and patience, and keep sessions short and fun.

🎓 Why it works: Mental stimulation builds confidence, strengthens your bond, and can even reduce anxiety.

The 5 Biggest Dog Training Challenges Every Pet Owner Faces | Ridgeside K9 | Professional Dog Training

4. Frozen Dog Bowl Delight

🧠 What it is: Fill a bowl or silicone mold with water or low-sodium broth, drop in fruits, veggies, and treats, and freeze it. Give it to your dog for a cool, tasty challenge.

🍓 Pro tip: Use dog-safe ingredients like blueberries, carrots, and plain yogurt.

Frozen Fruit Dog Bowl -

5. Favorite Enrichment Toys from Contigo Dogs

🧠 What it is: Sometimes, a thoughtfully designed toy is the easiest way to keep your dog entertained. At Contigo Dogs, we carry a curated collection of high-quality enrichment toys loved by both pups and their people.

🛒 Our favorites:

  • Woof Pupsicles – Fill it with peanut butter, kibble, or frozen goodies.

  • Puzzle Toys – Hide treats, and watch your pups brain work.

  • Longsock Scent Kit – Teach your pup how to find specific scents.

Scent Training Starter Kit

Wrapping Up

Enrichment isn’t just about fun — it’s a vital part of your dog’s overall well-being. These easy activities are perfect for rainy days, busy schedules, or anytime your dog needs a little extra stimulation. Whether you DIY or shop with us at Contigo Dogs, your pup will thank you!

🐶❤️ Have a favorite enrichment idea? Share it in the comments or tag us on Instagram @contigodogs!

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