Top 5 Mental Enrichment Games for Dogs: Vet-Approved Activities for Calm and Focused Behaviour

Exercise is only part of the equation. Dogs also need mental stimulation, particularly if they spend more time indoors or follow repetitive routines. Boredom isn’t just a behavioural issue; it can fuel anxiety, destructive actions and even affect digestion.

The good news is that you don’t need fancy gadgets or endless free time. With simple tools and creativity, you can challenge your dog’s mind and keep them calm, engaged and content. Here are five vet-approved enrichment games that tap into your dog’s natural instincts.

The Snuffle Mat Fun 

A favourite for many households, the snuffle mat replicates grass or foraging terrain, encouraging your dog to use their nose to seek out food. Scent work naturally calms, reduces stress and creates a sense of accomplishment.

Research such as Horowitz et al. (2020) found that nosework significantly improves canine wellbeing and helps reduce stress-related behaviours. Scatter part of your dog’s regular meal or low-calorie treats on the mat for them to find.

The Towel Roll-Up Game

No special toys required. Place kibble or dry food on a towel and roll it up tightly. This combines a physical puzzle with a scent challenge, encouraging your dog to problem-solve as they unroll the towel for a reward.

Studies like Clark et al. (2021) show that behavioural enrichment promoting problem-solving reduces stress and improves focus in domestic dogs. Start simple and gradually make it more challenging to keep your dog engaged without frustration.

Muffin Tin Mystery

Turn a muffin tin into a puzzle by placing food in each slot and covering it with tennis balls or paper. This simple game promotes nose-led exploration and problem-solving while encouraging focus and persistence.

The benefits are well-documented - Hunt et al. (2022) demonstrated that enrichment activities significantly enhance welfare and reduce behavioural stress in dogs.

The Cardboard Box Adventure

Repurpose delivery boxes by filling them with safe paper, towels or packing material, then hide treats inside. This provides digging and pawing satisfaction, perfect for dogs who love to explore.

Interactive enrichment has been shown to build confidence and reduce boredom-driven anxiety. Dare et al. (2023) found that scent, food and tactile enrichment effectively lower stress behaviours in dogs, improving overall welfare.

Scatter Feeding Outdoors

Change up mealtime by scattering food in the garden or a safe outdoor area instead of using a bowl. This taps into your dog’s natural foraging instincts, slows eating and transforms meals into an engaging challenge.

Scent-based feeding promotes emotional regulation and focus, helping dogs feel both calm and satisfied.

The Importance of Mental Enrichment

Mental engagement is vital for wellbeing. Regular enrichment reduces anxiety, slows eating, improves digestion and stabilises energy levels. Behavioural experts confirm that enrichment and scent-based play significantly reduce stress-related behaviours in dogs.

Allergies and sensitivities can also influence behaviour - studies like Olivry & Mueller (2017) show that food sensitivities contribute to discomfort and irritability, while Drechsler et al. (2024) found that atopic conditions may elevate stress markers.

Consistent enrichment builds trust, focus and confidence, especially for rescue dogs, puppies or those prone to anxiety.

Nourish Their Mind with the Right Nutrition

Enrichment works best when supported by balanced nutrition. Novel protein-powered meals rich in fibre and slow-release energy keep dogs mentally sharp, calm and focused. A well-fed mind is a happy mind.

Sources

• Clark, F.E. et al. (2021). The Impact of Interactive Enrichment on Domestic Dogs in Kennels and Homes. Animals (Basel). Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/11/7/1985

• Hunt, R.L. et al. (2022). Effects of Environmental Enrichment on Dog Behaviour. Animals (Basel). Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8772568/

• Dare, P. et al. (2023). Ruff Morning? The Use of Environmental Enrichment to Buffer Stress in Shelter Dogs. Animals (Basel). Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/13/9/1506

• Drechsler, Y. et al. (2024). Canine Atopic Dermatitis: Prevalence, Impact, and Management Strategies. Veterinary Medicine (Auckland). Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10874193/

• Olivry, T. & Mueller, R.S. (2017). Prevalence of Cutaneous Food Reactions in Dogs and Cats. BMC Veterinary Research. Available at: https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-017-0973-z