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Ditch The Bowl

#DitchTheBowl

Transform your dog's meals, snacks, and training treats into engaging, puzzle-like challenges and activities. By doing so, you can help prevent boredom, keep your dog's mind active, and provide healthier food options. Taking the time to prepare something delicious and enriching not only benefits your dog but can also make your routine more rewarding.

Over the next few weeks, prioritize measuring and prepping your dog's food. Consider investing in some of the suggested supplies listed below and explore brands like Just Food for Dogs, Ziwi Peak, and The Honest Kitchen for healthy food and treat options.

TREAT TIPS

  • Size Matters: Eliminate large treats; use -pea to marble- sized portions.
  • Value: Save high-value treats for specific training sessions.
  • Kibble Upgraded: Use kibble as treats and enhance their appeal by mixing them in a container mixed with fish treats or small pieces of cooked hot dogs.

FROZEN OPTIONS

1. Prep & Freeze Stuffed West Paw Toppls or something similar

2. Prep & Freeze Lick Mats & Bowls

  • Use plain yogurt, baby food, peanut butter, or almond butter.
  • đźš« Note: Avoid xylitol—it’s poisonous to dogs!

3. Prep & Freeze Soaked Kibble & Veggies

  • Use small or large ice cube trays for portioned servings.

4. Stuff Traditional Kongs (My least favorite option)

  • While they add variety and can last a long time, Kongs can be frustrating to stuff, clean, and for dogs to use. Despite these drawbacks, they’re worth trying occasionally for variety.

STUFFING TIPS

Create simple or complex recipes using mixtures of healthy ingredients:

  • Base Ingredients: Quality canned dog or baby food, kibble soaked in broth or coconut water, or plain yogurt.
  • Add-ons: Dog-friendly veggies, canned pumpkin, or small pieces of fish, meat, or cheese.
  • Finishing Touch: Top with a dab of peanut butter or get creative by adding a duck chew for extra flair.

SPREADABLES

Perfect for lick mats and bowls, spreadables add variety and interest:

  • Cream cheese, spray cheese, or cottage cheese
  • Plain yogurt
  • Veggie blends with fruit, meat, or bone broth
  • Organic, non-refined coconut oil
  • Vegemite or tahini
  • Canned dog food (use a squirt bottle for easy application)
  • Baby food (also great with a squirt bottle!)
  • Peanut butter or almond butter (đźš« Avoid xylitol!)

START SLOW

If your dog is new to frozen enrichment, ease them into it. Start with a small smear of peanut butter on a lick mat and freeze it. Gradually introduce more challenging options, like stuffed Kongs or Toppls.

Remember, enrichment should be fun and rewarding—not frustrating. If something feels too challenging for your dog, simplify it. Dogs that struggle may get frustrated, confused, or lose interest, so always aim to match the challenge to your dog's skill level.

Click here to view the Canine Enrichment Guide PDF in a new tab! >>


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