Fall Into Enrichment: How to Keep Your Dog Mentally Stimulated Indoors 🍂🧠🐶

As the days get shorter and the temps start to drop, outdoor adventures with your pup may slow down — but that doesn’t mean the fun (or enrichment) has to stop. In fact, fall is the perfect time to lean into indoor mental stimulation to keep your dog happy, engaged, and out of trouble.

Whether you're working from home or just trying to keep your pup from climbing the walls during a rainy week, here are some easy, high-impact ways to enrich your dog’s daily routine this season.

🧩 1. Puzzle Feeders Are Your New Best Friend

Boredom is often the root of problem behaviors, and dogs love a challenge. Enrichment feeders like the Toppl® Treat-Dispensing Toy are great for turning treat time or dinner into a brain workout. Fill it with kibble, freeze-dried goodies, or wet food, and watch your dog figure it out.

PVO Pick: Pair your Toppl with a Toppl Stopper to use soft foods or broth-based fillings without the mess.

🦴 2. Level Up Your Treat Game

Use high-value, novel proteins to keep your dog’s attention and interest. Freeze-dried treats like duck heads, shrimp, sardines, or organ meats add variety and nutrition. These aren’t just unique proteins — they’re full of essential nutrients and perfect for training, chewing, or puzzle-filling.

Pro tip: Rotate between different textures and proteins to avoid boredom and food fatigue.

🧼 3. Add a Grooming Enrichment Routine

Turn grooming into a bonding activity! Brushing paired with calming chews, grooming wipes, or a gentle leave-in spray can help create a routine your pup actually enjoys. Bonus: it reduces shedding and keeps things fresh when bath days are few and far between.

👃 4. Try DIY Sniff Games

Dogs were born to sniff. Hide small pieces of our homemade or freeze-dried treats around your living room, in a towel maze, or under boxes for a fun and rewarding sniff session. It's a simple way to burn energy — without ever leaving the house.

💤 5. Don’t Forget the Power of Rest

Enrichment doesn’t mean constant stimulation. A cozy spot with a chew or stuffed toy can go a long way in supporting your dog’s mental health. Add a calming spray or lavender-scented wipe to help create a relaxing vibe after play or training.

🍁 Bonus: Create a Fall Enrichment Box

Rotate toys, puzzles, chews, and treats in a bin or basket that feels new every time you pull it out. It's like a seasonal subscription box — but you’re the curator. And your dog will love the surprise element.

Let’s Keep Tails Wagging This Fall

Enrichment isn’t just for energetic dogs — it’s for every dog. Whether your pup is a playful puppy or a seasoned snuggler, these small changes can make a big difference in their mood, behavior, and overall wellness.

Ready to upgrade your pup’s indoor routine?👉 Shop enrichment toys and freeze-dried treats