Enrichment Isn’t Extra — It’s Essential for Your Dog’s Wellbeing

Reading Time: 5 - 7 mins

Let’s Talk About Enrichment (And Why It Matters Every Single Day)

In the wild or working environments, dogs were bred to chase, dig, guard, herd, sniff, and retrieve. Fast-forward to today, and many of our dogs live in lounge rooms, waiting for us to get off our screens. While we’ve made their lives safer, we’ve also unintentionally taken away a lot of the mental and physical stimulation they need to feel truly fulfilled.

That’s where enrichment comes in.

What Is Enrichment, Really?

Enrichment is anything that encourages your dog to use their brain, body, and senses in healthy and rewarding ways. It can be:
- Food puzzles or Lickimats
- Sniff walks
- Training games
- Dig pits or sandboxes
- Chew toys
- Scent-based hide-and-seek games

These aren’t just cute extras — they’re critical to your dog’s mental health. Without enough stimulation, many dogs develop unwanted behaviours like excessive barking, chewing, pacing, anxiety, or even depression.

Why Lickimats Are a Game Changer

Let’s talk about one of our favourite enrichment tools: the Lickimat. These silicone mats are textured to hold soft food or spreads like yoghurt, raw food, banana mash, or peanut butter (just make sure it's xylitol-free!).

Why do dogs love them?
- The licking motion releases endorphins (aka feel-good hormones)
- It slows down fast eaters
- It provides calming distraction for grooming or alone time
- It mimics natural foraging behaviour

Plus, they’re super easy to clean and come in a range of sizes and textures to suit every pup. You can shop our collection of Lickimats here.

A Modern Problem: Breed Instincts Without an Outlet

Many behavioural challenges come from a mismatch between a dog's breed instincts and their daily reality. Think about it: a border collie was bred to herd sheep all day, a terrier to dig out vermin, a retriever to fetch for hours. But in suburbia? They’re often asked to chill on the couch and be quiet.

That’s why structured play, problem-solving games, and daily enrichment are so important. They help bridge that gap and let dogs express natural behaviours in ways that work for modern life.

The Enrichment Trifecta: Food, Play & Routine

We believe that optimal wellbeing for your dog includes:
- Biologically appropriate food that fuels their body
- Daily enrichment that stimulates their mind
- Structured play and connection that strengthens your bond

Together, these elements help reduce anxiety, support better behaviour, and create a life your dog can truly thrive in.

Start Simple — Start Now

You don’t need to overhaul your entire routine overnight. Start small:
- Add a Lickimat session at breakfast
- Scatter-feed in the backyard
- Rotate enrichment toys every few days
- Freeze treats to make them last longer

 

Each small effort adds up to a big difference in your dog’s overall happiness.

Need help choosing enrichment tools?

Explore our curated range of Lickimats and enrichment gear.

Because enrichment isn’t extra — it’s essential.

#EnrichEveryday
#LickimatLove
#VonHoundAndFriends

Drop Us A Message

 Your Pup’s Glow-Up Starts Here!

Get the ultimate bundle that turns heads at the dog park 🐩

Shop Now

Designed by an Animal Care Specialist

Made For Your Pup's Comfort

Fully Secure Checkout 

Australian Small Business Support