DIY Dog Enrichment Toys: A Quick Guide

DIY Enrichment Ideas for Your Service Dog

Keeping your service dog mentally and physically engaged is just as important as their regular training. Enrichment activities help prevent boredom, build problem-solving skills, and strengthen your bond. The best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune on fancy toys! Here are some simple, food-based DIY enrichment ideas to try at home.

1. Frozen Bowls

Want to give your pup a long-lasting snack? Try a frozen bowl!

• Coat the inside of a bowl with something like yogurt or peanut butter.

• Add bite-sized snacks like kibble, fruit, or dog-safe treats.

• Freeze it!

  • You can either add water before freezing for an extra challenge or freeze the food alone for a quicker treat.

• This is a great way to keep your dog occupied while providing a cool treat, especially in warm weather.

2. DIY Dental Treat

This simple snack helps with dental health while being a tasty treat.

• Spread peanut butter inside a celery stalk’s curve.

• Freeze it for a longer-lasting chew.

• The texture of celery helps scrape plaque from your dog’s teeth while they enjoy the peanut butter.

3. Kong Fillers

Instead of store-bought fillers, try these DIY options:

• Mashed (or whole) bananas

• Wet dog food

• Yogurt with berries

• Any dog-safe soft food you can freeze!

Freezing the filler makes it last longer and reduces mess. You can use a classic Kong or any similar stuffable toy you have at home. This works best with mashed, non-solid, and small foods, or tube-shaped foods (like that banana).

4. Towel Puzzle

A simple puzzle game using just a towel and treats:

• Lay a towel flat and sprinkle some kibble or treats across it.

• Roll or twist the towel up, making it more challenging for your dog to unroll.

• Let your pup figure out how to get to the hidden goodies!

5. Toilet Paper Roll & Box Puzzles

Got leftover TP rolls and small boxes? Turn them into a fun foraging game!

• Place kibble or treats inside the TP rolls.

• Put the rolls inside a box, closing it loosely.

• Let your dog figure out how to get the treats out by nudging, tearing, or tossing the box.

6. 'Magic Tricks' Game

This is a fun, interactive game to play with your dog that also builds their focus.

• Hide a treat in one hand or under one of three cups.

• Let your dog sniff and guess where the treat is.

• Reward them when they choose correctly.

• This simple game encourages engagement and problem-solving.

7. Flirt Pole (For High-Energy Dogs!)

If your dog needs to burn off some energy but you don't have too much room, a flirt pole can help:

• Think of it as a giant cat toy but for dogs—it's a long pole with a rope and toy attached.

• Move it around for your dog to chase and ‘catch.’

• It’s a great way to get them moving while building impulse control!

Wrap Up

Enrichment doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive! These simple DIY ideas can make a big difference in keeping your service dog engaged, happy, and mentally stimulated. Try them out and see which ones your pup enjoys the most!

photo credit: mattycoulton on pixabay