Simple enrichment to support your dog's best life

(with Petra Hall and Chase Dargaville, Petfirst Veterinary)

Is your dog getting into mischief, barking more than usual, or acting a bit ‘meh’? Just like us, our dogs can get bored so new and unwanted behaviours may be your fur friend’s way of saying they need more to do.

That’s where enrichment comes in. Enrichment simple means adding safe, enjoyable stimulation and opportunities for activity into your dog’s day, supporting their emotional wellbeing, mental wellbeing and behaviour.

Let’s talk about five types of enrichment for your fur friend:

1. Meet someone new! - social enrichment.
   Give your dog chances to connect with the world around them. Think other dogs (when appropriate), different people and safe new experiences.
   
   Try this! Calm playdates, a new walking buddy or a gentle ‘meet and greet’ in a low-stress environment.
   
   
2. Dogs with (part-time) jobs - occupational enrichment.
   Some dogs thrive when they have a “job”, especially breeds with strong working instincts. Take a moment to explore what your dog was bred to do (or what they seem naturally drawn to), then consider activities that suit them that you can enjoy together. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s giving your dog an outlet that feels satisfying.
   
   Try this! Agility, rally obedience, scentwork, or herding-style games. Check out our next article from Petfirst Veterinary 2026 calendar stars, the OutwestK9's Agility Team!
   
   
3. Physical enrichment.
   Like us, dogs like to see new things. Mix up your walks and let your dog explore different safe environments. Encourage natural movement such as stepping over logs, weaving around obstacles or walking up and down gentle slopes.
   
   Try this! At home, you can create a mini obstacle course using cardboard boxes, rolled-up towels, and tarps — always keeping your dog’s size, confidence, and safety in mind.
   
   
4. Nutritional enrichment.
   Turn mundane mealtimes into meaningful brain work by challenging your pet to sniff food out, solve problems or puzzles to access food or treats or ‘work’ for their food, delivering a slower but more satisfying meal.
   
   Try this! Check out our range of food puzzles and slow-feeding bowls and other enrichment ideas or try DIY options like hiding food in a rolled-up towel or freezing bone broth for a longer-lasting treat.
   
   
5. Nutritional enrichment.
   Engage in a little mindfulness and stimulate your dog’s different senses.
   
   Try this! Tempt their taste buds with different treats, slow down your walk to allow for more sniffs or bring interesting smells home, see something new or sit and let the world go by, try some calming classical music (50-60bpm) or learn how to gently massage your dog or groom them with a soft brush or glove.

 

Providing enrichment is a balancing act: if the game is too easy, it is over quickly; if it is too difficult, frustration can build. Start easy, keep it positive and don’t be afraid to try different things to find what works for your unique and special dog.

Need ideas? Pop in and chat to your Petfirst Veterinary team!