Because your dog deserves more than boring basics.
Bored Pup = Chewed Shoes
Enrichment on a Budget
8/9/20252 min read
Having a bored pet can lead to chewed shoes, scratched furniture, and other unwanted behaviors. Providing enrichment for your pets doesn't have to be expensive. Here are some budget-friendly activities and DIY solutions to keep your dogs and cats entertained indoors:
For Dogs
DIY Treat Puzzle: Use an old muffin tin and some tennis balls. Place treats in some of the muffin slots and cover them with balls. Your pup will have fun trying to uncover the treats.
Towel Tug-of-War: Tie knots in an old towel to create a durable and fun tug toy. Adjust the size of the knots based on your dog's size.
Ball Pit: If you have an empty kiddie pool, fill it with plastic balls and toss in some toys or treats. Your dog will enjoy digging through the balls to find the treasures.
Homemade Agility Course: Use household items like brooms, chairs, and cushions to create a simple agility course in your living room or backyard.
Frozen Treats: Fill a Kong or other hollow toy with peanut butter, canned pumpkin, or yogurt and freeze it. This will keep your dog busy and offers a cooling treat.
Hide and Seek: Hide in different areas of your house and call your dog to find you. This fun game also reinforces their recall skills.
Interactive TV: Some dogs enjoy watching videos of other animals or nature shows. There are plenty of pet-friendly channels available online.
For Cats
Interactive Feeder: Create a food puzzle by cutting small holes in an empty plastic bottle, just big enough for kibble to fall out when the bottle is rolled.
Cardboard Box Playground: Use old boxes to create a maze or castle. Cats love jumping in, out, and on top of boxes.
DIY Wand Toy: Attach feathers or fabric strips to a string and tie it to a stick. Drag it across the floor for an irresistible chase toy.
Paper Bag Fun: An empty paper bag can provide endless entertainment. Just leave one out and watch your cat explore or dive into it.
Window Watching: Set up a perch or a comfy spot by the window where your cat can observe the outside world. Adding a bird feeder outside can keep them entertained for hours.
Laser Pointer Games: Cats love chasing the elusive red dot. Remember to end the game by landing the dot on a treat for your cat to capture.
Catnip Socks: Fill an old sock with dried catnip, tie a knot, and let your cat go wild. The scent can provide a stimulating activity.
By incorporating these activities, you can enrich your pet's life, stimulate their minds and bodies, and potentially save your shoes and furniture!