Enrichment toys can be a fun way to keep your pup happy & busy! There are a ton of options out there: stuffed Kongs, filled bones, puzzle toys, snuffle mats, even DIY toys**….the list goes on!

Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise, and an enrichment toy can go a long way in helping your dog expend energy, stimulate their brain, and feel balanced. I personally use these types of toys with my pups August & Ruca for mental stimulation and anxiety release. One of their favorites when they go into their crates is a stuffed kong or bone. It’s pretty easy to just stick some peanut butter or a few freeze dried treats in there and hand it over BUT for the sake of fun and calorie consideration, I decided to get creative.

There are tons of nutritious AND delicious treat options out there. Pick a few from the list and get to stuffing…you are guaranteed to have a happy pup on your hands! Please note, make sure all of your ingredients are ORGANIC! I do toy prep on Sundays, stick them in the freezer, and we are set for the week.

• vegetables – broccoli, green beans, peas, carrots, brussel sprouts, zucchini, cucumber, celery
• fruits – blueberries, raspberries, cranberries, strawberries, apple, banana, cantaloupe, watermelon, mango
• pumpkin or sweet potato (chunks or puree)
• peanut butter –  make sure it’s Xylitol free!
• freeze dried treats – choose high quality single ingredient

BONUS TIP – use egg cartons to store your toys neatly and mess-free in the freezer!

**stay tuned for more posts about all things DIY!