7 Easy Enrichment Games for Dogs
Updated: 2 days ago
Some days the walk just doesn't happen. It's pouring, you're unwell, it's too hot, or the day has simply run away from you. Your dog still needs something to do, and that's where enrichment games come in. They use your dog's nose and brain, and ten minutes of snuffling for their dinner tires most dogs out far more than another lap of the park.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Enrichment games for dogs are activities that let your dog sniff, search, chew, lick and solve problems. Easy ones you can play at home with no special kit include a towel treat wrap, a scatter or sniff trail, the cup game, a muffin tin puzzle, a cardboard box shred, hand targeting and a lick plate. Ten to fifteen minutes of sniffing and searching often leaves a dog calmer than a long walk.
What are enrichment games for dogs?
Enrichment means giving your dog the chance to do the things dogs are built to do: sniffing, foraging, chewing, licking, digging and working things out. Games that tap into those needs are calming and satisfying, and they can take some pressure off on days when going out is hard.
They don't replace walks or time with you. They add to them.
7 easy enrichment games for dogs
1. Towel treat wrap
Scatter some dry food or treats on an old towel, roll it up loosely and let your dog unroll it. Once they've got the idea, roll it tighter, twist it or tie a loose knot. Keep it easy enough that they succeed.
2. Sniff trail
While your dog waits in another room, place treats in a trail at nose height and below: by a chair leg, behind a door, along the skirting board. Bring them in and say "find it". Start with treats in plain view and make it harder as they get the hang of it.
3. The cup game
Put a treat under one of three cups while your dog watches, then let them choose. Most dogs use their nose rather than their eyes, which is exactly what we want. Slide the cups around slowly once they've got it.
4. Muffin tin puzzle
Pop treats in a few holes of a muffin tin and cover every hole with a tennis ball or a scrunched-up bit of paper. Your dog has to work out which ones to move. Make sure anything you use is too big to swallow.
5. Cardboard box shred
Put treats in a cardboard box with some scrunched paper and let your dog rummage, rip and find. Great for dogs who love to destroy things. Stay nearby, and take away tape, staples and any big pieces they try to eat.
6. Hand targeting
Hold your flat hand near your dog's nose. When they touch it, say "yes" and treat. Move your hand a little left, right, high and low. It's quiet, needs almost no space and works for older dogs or dogs on rest.
7. Lick plate
Spread a little wet food, plain yoghurt or mashed banana on a lick mat or plate, freeze it if you like, and let your dog settle with it on a towel. Licking is soothing and helps dogs wind down after a busy day.
How often should you do enrichment games?
A little most days is better than a lot once a week. Pick one or two that suit your dog and your day. Food used in games can come out of their daily ration, so you're not adding extra calories.
Watch your dog rather than the clock. If they get frustrated, make the game easier. If they lose interest, stop and try again later.
Enrichment games for puppies and older dogs
Puppies love the towel wrap, easy sniff trails and lick plates, but keep sessions short and make sure they get plenty of sleep. Read how much sleep dogs need.
Older dogs and dogs on rest after an injury do well with sniffing, hand targeting and lick plates, as these work the brain without much movement. Check with your vet if your dog is on strict rest.
Want more ideas?
There are plenty more ways to keep a dog busy indoors, from snuffle mats to scent work. Read 10 indoor enrichment ideas for dogs.
RENEE'S TIP
Feed one meal a day through a game instead of a bowl. Scatter it in the garden, wrap it in a towel or spread it round a muffin tin. You'll get ten minutes of happy sniffing out of food your dog was getting anyway.
QUICK CHECK
ā Enrichment lets your dog sniff, search, chew and lick
ā Easy games need nothing more than a towel, cups or a box
ā Ten to fifteen minutes of sniffing is very tiring
ā Use part of the daily food to keep calories in check
ā Make it easier if your dog gets frustrated
FROM RENEE'S BOOKSHELF
The Modern Guide to Puppy Games
100 one-minute games you can play indoors, including brain and scent games for any age.
ONE-TO-ONE HELP
Help with a busy or bored dog
If your dog can't settle, chews everything or seems bored however much you do, I can help you plan a better balance of activity and rest in an online Dog Behaviour Consultation from wherever you are.
Online on Teams, wherever you are. 30 or 60 minutes.
FAQs
What are good enrichment games for dogs?
Towel treat wraps, sniff trails, the cup game, muffin tin puzzles, cardboard box shreds, hand targeting and lick plates.
What are easy enrichment games for dogs?
The towel wrap and a simple scatter or sniff trail are the easiest. You only need treats and an old towel.
What are indoor enrichment games for dogs?
Any game that uses your dog's nose or brain inside the house, like hiding treats, puzzle tins or lick plates.
How long should enrichment games last?
Ten to fifteen minutes is plenty for most dogs. Stop while they're still enjoying it.
Are enrichment games good for puppies?
Yes, as long as sessions are short and easy, and your puppy still gets lots of sleep.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Renee Patience Ā· National Dog Trainer of the Year 2025
Founder and head trainer of Paws Academy, with more than 30 years training dogs and a Level 6 Diploma in Applied Canine Behaviour. Renee has competed in agility, obedience and heelwork to music across the UK, including at Crufts and Olympia, has appeared on CBBC, and is the author of the Modern Training Guides and the Modern Breed Handbook series. Pictured with her boxer, Kookie.
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