Enrichment

Enrichment is essential to a dog as they need to have a purpose. Much like people. Providing a dog with enrichment helps ease stress and anxiety by giving them an aim and something to focus on,

It allows your dog to engage in natural behaviors, builds confidence, and gives them a feeling of accomplishment.

Enrichemnt doesnt even have to cost money it can be provided through simple tasks - recycling ect. (We will touch on this further in the games section)

Ulitimutley we all want happy and healthy pets and some boredom busters can be just the key to achieving this.

Dog Safe foods to add to a lickimat

Fruit

Bananas

Straberries

Watermelon

Blueberries

Apple/sauce

Pineapple

Canteloupe

Kiwi

Vegetables

Pupkin Puree
Green Bean Puree
Carrot Puree
Sweet potato Puree
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Cucumber

Cabbage

C

Fish

Sardines
Tuna
Salmon/Oil
Cod

Mussels

Shrimp

Fish/Krill oil

Mackerel

Anchovies

Meat

Pate
Chicken
Turkey
Beef

Pork

Steak

Lamb

Misc

Soaked Dog Kibble
Peanut Butter (Xylitol Free)
Plain Greek Yoghurt
Bone Broth
Cottage Cheese
Honey (Small Amount)
Popcorn
Cheese (Small amounts & plain)
Eggs
Wet dog food
Gravy (Small Amount)

Disclaimer:

Lickimat spinkles - can be made by crushing biscuits.
Remove bones from meat and avoid anything processed
You can freeze, refridgerate or serve lickimats room temp
Lickimats will form as part of enrichment
Dogs on a diet/Special diet can still enjoy a lickimat - simply soak their food if dry and add
Make sure to check all products stating sugar free/unsweetend, as these tend to have Xylitol in which is extremely poisenous to dogs (Peanut Butter)

The benefits of enrichment are:

They can occupy a puppy whilst in their crate or having quiet time
Distractions from maintenance workers/visitors
Has a calming effect thus reliving stress/anxiety
Slowing down a fast eater
A reward
Encourages down time
Tires them out
Mental Stimulation
Enrichment = encouraging sniffing & licking & problem solving
Occupy them & gives you some time
Can be used to hide medication, such as: wormers/flea treatments or anything else
Great for puppies & older dogs
Entertainment for your dog
Versatility and gives you the opportunity to try new foods in small doses