In the world of dogs, there is now more awareness than ever of the need to provide enrichment, especially in shelters. But what exactly is enrichment? The concept is pretty straightforward: learn what your dog’s needs are, and then structure an environment and routine that allows them to engage in behaviors they find enriching. To truly enrich your dog’s life, you should offer them opportunities to engage in natural or instinctual behaviors. Aside from the limitations we have to place on a dog in today’s modern, busy world, the biggest constraint to enriching your dog’s life is your imagination!
Best Friends (n.d.). Enrichment for Dogs in Shelters. Retrieved June 24, 2023, from https://resources.bestfriends.org/article/enrichment-dogs-shelters.
Shelter Playgroup Alliance (n.d.) Enrichment with boxes and egg cartons. Retrieved June 24, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2MhlO9kPW-k.
Todd, Z. (2015). Make Your Dog Happy: The Best Ways to Provide Enrichment for Your Dog. Companion Animal Psychology. Retrieved June 24, 2023 from https://www.companionanimalpsychology.com/2015/10/make-your-dog-happy-enrichment.html.
Center for Shelter Dogs. (2014). Entertainment. Tufts University: Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. Retrieved June 21, 2023, from https://centerforshelterdogs.tufts.edu/dog-welfare/enrichment/entertainment/.
Cook, A. and Chin, L. (n.d.). The Play Way. Retrieved June 24, 2023 from https://blog.doggiedrawings.net/post/614077754120519680.
