07/12/2022
Have a dog that enjoys digging?
Give them appropriate ways to release this totally normal canine behavior. If providing a spot to dig outside is not an option (we use a raised garden bed in the back yard and our resident senior dog usually buries her treasures there), then this is a great way to provide safe fun and enrichment.
Plastic kiddie pool: $20 or less from places like Walmart, Petsmart, Tractor Supply, Target
Plastic balls for ball pits: ~$15 for 100 at target, etc, or amazon has 400 for $40.
We've collected a lot of toys, stuffies etc over the years, but you don't have to put in toys if you don't want to.
Throw a handful of kibble in the pool and let your pup(s) have a blast using their sniffers to go on a treasure hunt.
We use small-bite kibble cause it takes a bit more effort to find. We also scatter a handful or two around the house to provide equal opportunity to find snacks in our multi-animal household. Even the cat joins in on the hunt.
A diggy pit is especially useful on days where the heat is just a little much to be outside for too long.
Additionally, you can take the pool outside and add water (with or without the balls) for another source of enrichment and fun for your pups!
For those with dogs with resource guarding issues, this may not be ideal for enrichment purposes. Seek out your local trainer and/or canine behavior specialist for more assistance.
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