Keep Their Brain Busy. Keep Their Routine Varied.
Discover how our SOLVE • SNIFF • SEARCH • LICK
framework can bring more variety to your dog’s everyday activities.
Dog Enrichment — Your Questions Answered
What is dog enrichment?
Dog enrichment provides opportunities for dogs to explore, investigate, problem-solve and engage in natural behaviours.
Our approach uses four activities: SOLVE • SNIFF • SEARCH • LICK.
These activities provide different types of mental engagement and can help make daily routines more varied and interesting.
What is the difference between the Brain Game and the Complete Enrichment System?
The Brain Game focuses on the SOLVE pillar, using a dog puzzle activity to encourage problem-solving.
The Complete Dog Enrichment System combines four activities:
- SOLVE: Interactive puzzle feeder.
- SNIFF: Snuffle mat for scent-based exploration.
- SEARCH: Hide-and-seek activity toy.
- LICK: Textured lick mat for suitable food.
The Complete System also includes a 7-Day Enrichment Rotation to help owners introduce variety throughout the week.
Do I need to use all four enrichment activities every day?
No. You don't need to use every activity daily.
Start with one activity and rotate between SOLVE, SNIFF, SEARCH and LICK throughout the week.
Short, positive sessions are often more useful than long sessions that leave your dog frustrated or overstimulated.
Allow time for rest and adjust activities to your dog's interests.
Are enrichment toys suitable for puppies?
Some enrichment activities can be suitable for puppies, provided they are age-appropriate and supervised.
Start with simple activities that match your puppy's size, development and confidence.
Always check product instructions and age recommendations. Avoid toys with small detachable parts that could be swallowed.
Never leave a puppy unattended with an enrichment activity.
Are enrichment toys suitable for strong chewers?
Not all enrichment toys are suitable for strong or destructive chewers.
Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, plush search toys and lick mats are designed for supervised activities rather than prolonged chewing.
If your dog attempts to chew, tear or swallow parts of an enrichment product, remove it immediately.
Select toys according to your dog's size, chewing habits and play style.
What food or treats can I use with enrichment toys?
This depends on the activity.
- Puzzle feeders: Suitable dry food or small treats.
- Snuffle mats: Small pieces of dry food hidden within the fabric.
- Hide-and-seek toys: Use according to the product instructions; not every search toy is designed to hold food.
- Lick mats: Suitable wet dog food or dog-safe spreadable treats.
Avoid ingredients harmful to dogs, including chocolate, grapes, raisins and products containing xylitol.
Account for enrichment treats within your dog's normal daily food allowance.
What if my dog cannot solve the puzzle?
Start with the easiest possible challenge.
Show your dog where the food is hidden and demonstrate how the puzzle works.
Reward small successes and allow your dog to explore at their own pace.
If your dog becomes frustrated, simplify the activity or take a break.
Enrichment should be enjoyable, not a test your dog has to pass.
How long should an enrichment session last?
There is no single ideal duration for every dog.
Start with a few minutes and observe your dog's response.
Some dogs enjoy longer activities, while puppies, older dogs or inexperienced dogs may prefer shorter sessions.
Finish while your dog is still engaged and comfortable.
Quality matters more than duration.
Can enrichment help with boredom and destructive behaviour?
Mental stimulation can help provide appropriate outlets for natural behaviours and may reduce some boredom-related behaviours.
However, destructive chewing can have several causes, including insufficient exercise, frustration, teething, stress or separation-related problems.
Enrichment should complement suitable exercise, training, rest and companionship.
It is not a guaranteed treatment for separation anxiety or behavioural difficulties.
If behaviour is persistent or severe, seek advice from a qualified veterinary professional or suitably accredited behaviourist.
How do I clean and maintain enrichment toys?
Always follow the care instructions supplied with each product.
As general guidance:
- Puzzle feeders: Remove food residue and clean accessible surfaces.
- Snuffle mats: Check for trapped food and clean according to the material instructions.
- Plush hide-and-seek toys: Inspect seams and removable pieces regularly.
- Lick mats: Wash thoroughly after use and check for damage.
Allow cleaned items to dry fully before storage.
Replace any toy that develops tears, cracks, loose pieces or other damage.
What is the 7-Day Enrichment Rotation?
Our 7-Day Enrichment Rotation is a simple weekly guide to help you introduce different mental activities without using every toy every day.
It rotates between:
SOLVE • SNIFF • SEARCH • LICK
The aim is to provide variety while keeping activities manageable.
Owners can adapt the rotation around their dog's age, confidence, interests and daily routine.
Rest days are encouraged.
Do enrichment activities replace daily walks and exercise?
No.
Enrichment supports mental engagement, but it doesn't replace appropriate physical exercise, outdoor exploration, social interaction or companionship.
Dogs benefit from a balanced routine that includes physical activity, mental stimulation, relaxation and sleep.
Our enrichment approach is designed to complement that routine.