Enrichment provides opportunities for dogs to express their natural instincts and behaviors — from eating habits to resting routines! Just because your dog no longer needs to hunt for their food doesn't mean those needs and behavioral patterns have disappeared. Quite the opposite — and that’s where enrichment comes in.
For example, hiding your dog’s food and letting them search for it helps stimulate their natural foraging instincts. Have you ever seen a dog scratch or “nest” before lying down? Try placing some blankets for them to arrange themselves to prepare for rest — it satisfies a natural behavior!
Examples of Natural Behaviors You Can Support Through Enrichment:
🐾 Eating
Try hiding your dog’s food so they have to sniff it out. Want to make it extra challenging? Hide kibble in the cracks of a tree stump or scatter it across the lawn.
Not sure which food to use? Fill our recommendation engine and get a tailored meal plan for your dog.
🐾 Nesting
Let your dog “make their bed” before they settle in to sleep.
🐾 Sniffing
A dog’s sense of smell is one of their most important tools for discovering the world. Have you tried nosework with your dog? Or hiding Alvar’s dog treats (like Chicken Softies, Fish Softies, or Vendace Treat) and making a little treat trail at home (check out Alvar’s Easter hunt for inspo)? 🍬
🐾 Chasing
If your dog has a strong prey drive but no outlet, try tracking games or scent trails.
🐾 Digging
Some dogs just love to dig! (Though maybe not in the neighbor’s garden 🌱)
🐾 Chewing
Our chews are perfect for that need.
🐾 Licking
Spread a bit of our tasty toppers (Chicken or Wild Fish) on a puzzle toy and let your dog stay busy licking and chewing. Want to make it last longer? Freeze it before serving.
🐾 Carrying
Ever wonder why your dog always brings a sock when you come home? Carrying things is also a natural behavior. Let your dog carry toys or sticks to enrich this instinct.
🐾 Social Interaction
Let your dog play with other dogs.
Want a DIY enrichment idea using Alvar’s dry food? Check out how our friend @rexlivet created a fun enrichment exercise that’s also eco-friendly by reusing items you already have at home 😍
How Much Enrichment Is Enough?
There’s no “one size fits all” — every dog and breed is different. It’s important to remember that even too much of a good thing can cause stress. You know your dog best, so keep an eye on how they’re feeling. Is life more fun and your dog seems happier? Great!
Or does your dog seem stressed? Then it might be time to ease off the enrichment a bit.
Share your enrichment tips on Instagram and tag @alvarpet.se 💚
