Scatter feeding is a simple yet engaging enrichment activity. You spread your dog’s kibble or treats across a surface, like the ground, a blanket, or a grassy area. This turns mealtime into a fun foraging adventure. It encourages your dog to sniff, search, and tap into their natural hunting instincts.
Your dog might need a moment of calm. In such cases, a lick mat can be a powerful tool in your enrichment toolbox. This simple silicone mat with grooves and ridges turns snack time into a soothing activity. It reduces stress and supports your dog’s emotional well-being.
Licking is a naturally calming behavior for dogs—it releases feel-good endorphins, reduces anxiety, and helps regulate arousal. Lick mats encourage slow, focused engagement that promotes relaxation and helps redirect nervous or hyperactive energy.
They’re perfect for: Helping dogs settle after play or walks Calming anxious or overstimulated dogs Creating positive associations during grooming, vet prep, or crate time Encouraging independence
1 lick mat (or substitute a silicone baking mat or plastic container lid with texture)
Soft, spreadable food (see ideas below)
Optional: freezer for longer-lasting fun
Choose your base: Pick a soft food your dog loves—plain yogurt, peanut butter (xylitol-free), pumpkin puree, mashed banana, or wet dog food.
Spread it on: Smooth a thin layer of the food across the lick mat, pressing into the grooves so it takes effort to get out.
Optional – Add toppings: Sprinkle a few extras like crushed treats, blueberries, or kibble for added interest.
Serve or freeze: You can offer it right away or freeze it for 1–2 hours to make it last longer and increase the challenge.
Let the licking begin: Give your dog the mat in a quiet, comfy spot and let them work at their own pace.
Use during stressful events like thunderstorms, fireworks, or guests visiting.
Incorporate into daily routines to help your dog wind down after stimulation.
Use multiple mats and rotate “recipes” to keep it fresh and exciting.
For dogs with food sensitivities, try bone broth or a prescription-safe spread.
Safety Note: Always supervise the first few sessions to make sure your dog doesn’t chew the mat. Remove once finished to avoid the habit forming.
Licking is a naturally soothing behavior that helps dogs self-regulate. It releases endorphins, lowers heart rate, and keeps the brain engaged through sensory input and focused movement.
1 ripe banana
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
A handful of blueberries
Optional: sprinkle of kibble, tasty chews or a swirl of unsweetened peanut butter
Blender
Frozen Banana-Berry Lick-Ums Recipe:
1 ripe banana
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
A handful of blueberries
Optional: sprinkle of kibble, tasty chews or a swirl of unsweetened peanut butter
Blend it all up and pour into:
A lick mat
Silicone molds
Ice cube trays
A Kong or Topple
Freeze for 3–4 hours (or overnight), then serve for a slow, satisfying sensory experience.
Tip: Freeze several at once so you always have one ready in a pinch!
Add in the frozen texture and a bit of problem-solving? You’ve got a game that cools, calms, and tires them out—all without leaving your backyard.
Sensory enrichment helps engage your dog’s senses—sight, touch, smell, and even taste—to stimulate their brain and enhance their environment. By introducing new textures, scents, and activities, you’re helping to build confidence, reduce boredom, and encourage natural curiosity.
Painting with your dog is a fun and creative way to engage their sense of touch. It also stimulates their sight. This activity is stress-free and mess-free. Plus, you’ll get a one-of-a-kind keepsake of your dog’s artistic talent!
Encourages Exploration – Engaging with new textures and experiences boosts confidence. Provides Mental Stimulation – Your dog gets to problem-solve and interact with their environment in a unique way. Strengthens the Human-Dog Bond – A fun, shared experience builds trust and engagement. Results in a Keepsake! – You’ll have a beautiful, one-of-a-kind artwork to remember the experience.
Canvas or thick paper (small to medium size works best) Non-toxic, pet-safe paint (avoid toxic paints) Large zip-lock bag (big enough to fit the canvas) Xylitol-free peanut butter or dog-safe spread Treats (for encouragement) Paintbrush (optional) (for dogs who enjoy using their paws or nose in new ways) Towel or easy-to-clean surface (to keep things tidy)
Prepare Your Space
Lay down a towel or work in an area that’s easy to clean.
Keep treats handy to reward engagement and curiosity.
Set Up the Canvas
Place small drops of the non-toxic paint onto the canvas.
Mix colors for a unique effect, or use a single color for a cleaner design.
Seal the Canvas
Carefully place the canvas inside the zip-lock bag and seal it tightly to prevent leaks or messes.
Let Your Dog Do the Work!
Encourage your dog to step, nudge, or roll on the bag to spread the paint.
Place peanut butter or treats on top of the bag to motivate paw movements.
If using the optional paintbrush, let your dog hold it or use their nose or paw to push it around.
Reveal the Artwork
Once the paint is evenly spread, carefully remove the canvas from the bag and let it dry completely.
Show Off Your Pup’s Masterpiece!
Display your dog’s artwork at home or share it with the Canine Brain Games community!
Try using different scents (like a drop of lavender water) to add another sensory element. Turn it into a themed art project by using seasonal colors or making multiple canvases.
Helping dogs settle after play or walks
Encourages Exploration – Engaging with new textures and experiences boosts confidence.
Set Up the Canvas
Seal the Canvas
Let Your Dog Do the Work!
Reveal the Artwork
Show Off Your Pup’s Masterpiece!
