Best Doggone Summer Ever
Your dog loves playing outdoors - why not make it an even more enjoyable experience? Whether you have a small patch of grass or an ample yard, these easy enrichment tips can help create the ideal summer vibe for your furry friend! From adding dog friendly plants to creating a splash park, we'll explore creative ways you can turn your outdoor space into the perfect summer playground.
Scent Enrichment - Sensory Garden
This Shiba Inu is taking their time to smell the liliac.
Scent has the power to calm and it’s important that all dogs have ample opportunities to sniff. Transform your outdoor living space into an aromatic oasis with a sniffy garden.
Drill some holes in old tires for drainage and give them new life when you fill the tires with dog friendly plants that smell great like lavender and marigold. Or upcycle a palate to bring on some flavorful fun with peppermint, sweet basil and savory rosemary- there are plenty of options to choose from. Refer to the ASPCA's list of toxic/non-toxic plants and get creative!
Tactile Enrichment -Dig Pit
Boomer created his own dig pit 🤦🏻♀️
For some dogs, digging is just in their DNA. Give those natural excavating instincts an acceptable outlet by building them a dig pit.
Before spending a lot of time or money building a proper sandbox experiment with a temporary fixture. All you need is a kiddy pool and kid safe sand. Now your dog can dig to their heart’s content in their new sandbox.
Enrichment for Food Motivated Dogs
Watermelon is a healthy summertime treat for your pooch.
Mealtimes are the easiest way to provide your dog with enrichment, so delight your pup with this special summertime treat. Pups love their proteins, but why not try something different? Create a smorgasbord of healthy snacks like carrots, green beans, avocado slices, strawberries, and apples. Take note of what they like then use this healthy treat to reward them for good behavior.
And don't forget about dessert! Put together an amazing licking station. Mix yogurt, pumpkin, blueberries (or another fruit of your choosing) and water. Pour into a container that offers a large surface area and freeze. Sit back and smile as they work to extract their cool and refreshing treat.
Finally bust out some bacon flavored bubbles to compliment the fun, summery vibe!
Physical Exercise - Dash and Splash
Chasing and biting at the water coming from the hose is a favorite activity for Chip.
Hitting the pavement in the summer for a 30-minute walk is out of the question, so keep them cool in the pool, instead. Durable galvanized tubs provide an affordable alternative to those who don't have access to a pool. And unlike flimsy plastic models, these heavy-duty options will last the entire season without splitting. Make fetch twice as nice, tossing the frisbee or ball right into a pool of water.
Unleash your inner child and race around with your pup by running through a sprinkler. Alternatively spray your dog with the hose. Double over in laughter as they try to catch the water in their mouth.
If your dog is apprehensive about the water, don’t force them. Instead toss a few chilled watermelon chunks in their direction as you relax in the shady, dry zone together.
Enrichment Adds Fun
Make this summer an unforgettable one. Set up outdoor enrichment stations that promote their mental, physical and emotional growth. To learn more ways to build a better bond with your pup, read more articles on our dog blog and follow us on social media!
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