1 Tip, 1 Idea, 1 Quote.
On Enrichment Feeding
Dog Trainer Auckland
August 18, 2026
1 Tip - on life with your dog
If your dog is anxious, nervous, or you haven't had time to walk them try scattering their meal across the ground instead of using a bowl. This activates their nose which is their strongest sense. Sniffing is proven to be calming and their engagement is rewarded by the food. This calm and reward quietly builds their confidence one meal at a time.
1 Idea - on the leading edge
With every dog, especially the reactive or anxious ones, I recommend changing how they're fed. Swap the bowl for an activity that encourages natural behaviours: sniffing, foraging, problem-solving, shredding. Scatter their kibble, drop it into a toy box, hide it around the house or garden, or use a box they have to shred to get to the food. Dogs enjoy working for their food, so try it for one or both meals a day.
1 Quote - on dogs
I have noticed when a dog spends time free sniffing they are visibly calmer, settle more easily and are settled for longer. It's anecdotal, but consistent enough that I build it into every plan.
