Treats That Double as Enrichment

Introduction

When you think of dog treats, you probably imagine a quick reward or tasty snack. But treats can be so much more than that. Used the right way, they can become powerful tools for enrichment — keeping your dog’s mind busy, encouraging natural behaviours, and even helping with calmness and confidence. If your pup is food-motivated (and let’s be honest, most are!), treats that double as enrichment are a pawfect way to combine fun and nutrition.

What Is Enrichment Feeding?

Enrichment feeding simply means making mealtime or treat time a little more interesting. Instead of just handing over a snack, you use it in a way that engages your dog’s brain. It might be hiding treats in a snuffle mat, spreading something tasty on a lick mat, or giving them a chew that takes time to work through. This taps into your dog’s natural instincts to sniff, chew, lick, and problem-solve.

Types of Enrichment Treats

Not every treat works well for enrichment. The best choices are those that either take time to eat or can be used with enrichment tools. Some popular options include:

• Chews – Long-lasting options like roo tendons, beef ears, or wallaby tails keep dogs occupied and satisfy their urge to gnaw.

• Crunchy Treats – Fish skins, jerky strips, or dehydrated meats can be hidden in snuffle mats or puzzle toys.

• Novel Proteins – Introducing new proteins (like venison or goat) adds variety and keeps treat time exciting.

How Enrichment Helps Behaviour & Calmness

Dogs aren’t just physical creatures — they need mental stimulation too. Enrichment feeding helps in several ways:

• Reduces boredom – A busy dog is less likely to chew shoes or dig holes.

• Encourages natural behaviours – Sniffing, chewing, and licking are calming and rewarding for dogs.

• Promotes relaxation – Licking in particular has a soothing effect on the nervous system.

• Builds confidence – Puzzle toys and foraging games give dogs a sense of achievement.

Best Bonza Treats That Work as Enrichment

At Bonza, we’ve seen first-hand how natural treats fit perfectly into enrichment routines. Some customer favourites include:

• Roo Tendons – Long-lasting and tough, ideal for focused chewing sessions.

• Venison Ears with Fur – Great for gut health and mimic natural prey chewing.

• Shark Cartilage – Crunchy and loaded with nutrients, perfect for snuffle mats.

• Beef Jerky – Easy to break into smaller pieces for puzzles and mats.

• Goat Horns – Super tough and reusable — you can even stuff them with mince or soft food for extra challenge.

These single-ingredient, additive-free treats keep things natural while supporting enrichment play.

How to Get Started With Enrichment Feeding

If enrichment feeding is new to you, start simple:

• Try a snuffle mat with a handful of small dried treats.

• Use a lick mat with crushed yoghurt drops or minced meat spread thinly.

• Offer a chew after exercise to encourage calm downtime.

• Rotate treats so your dog doesn’t get bored with the same option.

A little creativity goes a long way, and you don’t need fancy equipment — even hiding treats in a rolled-up towel can spark your dog’s curiosity.

Quick FAQs

Can all dogs benefit from enrichment treats?
Yes, whether you have a puppy, adult, or senior, enrichment feeding can be adapted to suit their needs.

How often should I use enrichment treats?
A few times a week is great to start. Some owners build small enrichment sessions into their daily routine.

Are enrichment treats only for high-energy dogs?
Not at all! Calm dogs enjoy them too — it’s about mental engagement, not just burning energy.

Conclusion

Treats don’t have to be “just a snack.” When used as part of enrichment, they can entertain your dog, promote calmness, and encourage healthy behaviours. By choosing natural, long-lasting, and varied treats, you’ll turn snack time into a brain-boosting, tail-wagging experience.

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