FAQ's Dog Enrichment

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Enrichment

How do I know if my dog is actually bored?

Dogs have a funny way of showing us they're under stimulated. Sometimes it's really obvious, like destructive chewing, digging, or escaping the garden. Other times it's a bit more subtle. Is your dog constantly pestering you for attention, barking at seemingly nothing, or appearing restless and unable to settle down? These can all be signs that their brain isn't getting enough of a workout. A mentally tired dog is usually a calm and settled dog at home.

My dog just wants to run! Isn't high-intensity exercise better?

It's not a case of one being 'better' than the other; it's about finding the right balance. High-energy breeds absolutely need an outlet for their physical energy, and a good run or a game of fetch is fantastic for that. However, physical exercise alone often just builds an ever-fitter athlete who needs more and more running to get tired. By pairing that physical activity with mental work like sniffing and problem-solving, you address the needs of the whole dog. You’ll probably find that a 30-minute run followed by a 15-minute 'sniffari' is far more effective at tiring them out than a 45-minute run alone.

Is it possible for a walk to be too stimulating?

That's a great question, and the answer is yes, absolutely. For some dogs, especially those who are nervous, anxious, or reactive, a walk in a very busy environment can lead to something called 'trigger stacking'. This is where lots of small stressful events (a loud lorry, a dog barking, a stranger approaching) build up until the dog feels completely overwhelmed. The key is to know your dog. A mentally stimulating walk should be engaging and fun, not stressful. If your dog is anxious, choose quiet times and places for your enrichment walks, allowing them to build confidence without feeling flooded with too much information.