When I meet with clients, no matter the age or breed or energy level of the dog, I almost always discuss the topic of enrichment. When I say enrichment, I'm referring to items and activities that:
Make their day more interesting
Meet their natural doggie urges
Burn excess energy
Build confidence and problem solving abilities
Keep them gainfully employed rather than getting into mischief
You may already be familiar with interactive toys and food puzzles like the one you see in the photo above. There are literally dozens of options to choose from, and they're very helpful for puppies and adult dogs alike. But enrichment doesn't have to revolve solely around food. Getting to explore, using their noses, investigating novel objects, playing games with us, and participating in positive reinforcement training sessions are also enriching and satisfying.
There are so many nifty ways to add fun and interest to your dog's day, and it doesn't need to take up a lot of your time or your cash. Another trainer friend, Sue Lavoie, and I decided to produce a presentation to share a bunch of popular strategies we frequently turn to. The presentation is free and available on Youtube. Just click on the image below --
We hope you'll check it out. (Your dogs will thank you for it!) And please feel free to share the link with anyone you know who may find it helpful. In the coming weeks, a new and advanced presentation will be available. Send me a message if you're interested in learning more about it.
Virginia Dare is a certified dog trainer & behavior counselor with decades of experience. Her business offers live video consultations anywhere in the US for training and behavior help, along with pre- and post-arrival counseling for new puppy parents.
She also provides in-home, private lessons and behavior consultations in the northern areas of Fairfield and Westchester counties, western New Haven county, Putnam and southern Dutchess counties.
Please visit www.NorthStarCanines.com/services to learn more, or contact me at 804.784.0120