Canine Enrichment for the Real World: Making It a Part of Your Dog's Daily Life

Canine Enrichment

by Allie Bender, Emily Strong

In the world of dogs, there is now more awareness than ever of the need to provide enrichment, especially in shelters. But what exactly is enrichment? The concept is pretty learn what your dog’s needs are, and then structure an environment and routine that allows them to engage in behaviors they find enriching. To truly enrich your dog’s life, you should offer them opportunities to engage in natural or instinctual behaviors. Aside from the limitations we have to place on a dog in today’s modern, busy world, the biggest constraint to enriching your dog’s life is your imagination!What the experts say about Canine ’t let the word “enrichment” in the title fool you into thinking that the scope of this book is too narrow or not something you will find valuable. It focuses comprehensively on meeting your dog’s needs and is written in a holistic, science-based, practical, straightforward, and easy-to-understand way. I love this book!Ken Ramirez, author of Animal Successful Animal Management Through Positive ReinforcementCanine Enrichment is a deep dive into what dogs really need and how we can provide it. It’s a great book for dog lovers who want to go beyond the standard superficialities of “dogs need exercise.” Just the chapter on agency is worth the price of the book!Patricia McConnell, Ph.D., CAAB Emeritus, author of The Other End of the Leash and The Education of WillThe scope of this book is ambitious and the authors deliver, navigating the subject of enrichment with depth and relevance. Caregivers will gain critically important perspectives and practical information to improve the lives of their animals.Susan G. Friedman, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, Utah State University, and founder of Behavior Works, LLCAllie Bender, CDBC, CPDT-KA, SBA, and Emily Strong, CDBC, CPBT-KA, SBA, are certified behavior consultants who work with all companion animal species. They co-founded and operate Pet Harmony, LLC, and First Train Home.

Genres: Dogs, Nonfiction, Animals, Science, Self Help

238 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 4, 2019

Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would recommend this book for (nearly) every pet dog owner. Things that I wish that every dog guardian understood was the need for enrichment in dogs' lives; that enrichment improves the relationship between dogs and their human; and that appropriate enrichment will likely drastically decrease unwanted behaviors from a dog, even without formal "training" to do so.

The word "enrichment" seems to be cropping up everywhere lately in the pet dog and dog trainer online communities, yet it simultaneously seems like not many people know what enrichment is, its importance, and how to implement it. At its simplest, "enrichment," encompasses activities that improve a dog's quality life by allowing them to do "dog-like" things in a way that works for the dog, dog guardian, and other stakeholders.

While I appreciated the beginning of the book that explained about various types of enrichment, the science behind them, and anecdotes about dog-human teams with whom the authors worked, for those who are looking for practical advice, the latter chapters include specific examples of possible ways to incorporate enrichment. I found the conversational writing style to be approachable and effective. I also appreciated the "work smarter not harder" theme of the book that acknowledges that everyone has challenges, but that there are small things that can be done to increase dog enrichment without blowing the time, money, or emotional energy bank.

[Erin Lynes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book just became my newest recommendation for my puppy owners. It offers so much more than what you expect- yes, practical ideas for enrichment are provided but the explanation of what enrichment really is, why dogs need it, and the actual science behind how it makes for happier, healthier dogs is invaluable. The book goes beyond 'keeping your dog busy' and offers a deeper look at how we can best share our lives with dogs once we know what they actually need from us. Truly a five-star read for all dog owners.

[Sophie Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Because giving my dog his best life is very important to me 😂 but honestly all dog owners should read this. If we expect them to be our companions the least we could do is offer them enrichment for fulfilling lives.

That's why my dog will have a dig pit. That's why I use my dogs nose everyday. That's why we have lick mats, chews and bones. All instinctual self rewarding behavior for him. We play fetch and tug for his instincts too. Makes for a happier dog and life.

It's not always about tiring out your pet, it's about fulfilling their needs first so they can fulfill yours 💜

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolute must for every dog owner's library. Thorough, modern and fair throughout- you have never looked at caring for your dog through this lens before, and you need to, regardless of your training background. I studied biology and psychology in college, have been a licensed small animal veterinarian for eight years and trained dogs in competition obedience for seven years, and I still learned new things. Highly recommended.

[KylaS · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the conversational style of the book, and the emphasis on not feeling guilty about not being able to do "all the things". Instead, find one or maybe two things to do that will enrich your dog(s). I also appreciated the discussion on puzzles and finding the right style and level for your dog to enjoy. A lot of good food for thought and practical ideas in this book. Worth reading and incorporating at least some of the ideas given.

[Grace Downey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent text. I greatly appreciate my coworker lending it to me.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're a dog parent trying to make the most out of the limited time you have with your dog, then this book is well worth the read.

Chapters are organized well. Enrichment ideas and activities are based on scientific research. Strategies for fitting these enrichment activities into your dog's daily life are actually achievable.

Please visit my dog blog McSquare Doodles for my full book review of Canine Enrichment for the Real World.

[Sian Finlay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feeling inspired to make my dog's life even better!!!

This book is must have for all dog owners. The focus of the book is dog enrichment but it delves into training, nutrition etc all for the sake of making you dog happy. I'm going away from this book with a rough action plan for my dog's enrichment. I'm slightly overwhelmed but the authors do make a point doing what you can and taking your time. I will definitely be re-reading this book!

[Danylle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing book with amazing ideas on how to earn richer dogs life. A lot of the ideas can be used for other pets and species as well the concept is simple and walks you through things step-by-step. It must read for anybody who wants to up their game for their dog to have a happier healthier life

[Zuzana Kolouchova · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totální pecka! Kdo máte psa nebo ho zvažujete, doporučuji přečíst! Naprosto dementní obálka a český název sice evokuje, že to je p*čovina pro děti, ale tahle kniha mi dala strašně hodně. Např.vysvětluje, že teorie dominance a alfa samce je nesmysl, jak funguje pes, jaké má potřeby. Že ne každý pes si chce hrát a ne každý pes si užívá “socializaci” v parcích. Je toho tam hodně, kdy jsem si úplně oddychla a kdy jsem si řekla aha tyjo! Pro mě fakt skvělá kniha založená na práci dvou zkušených trenérek a na spoustě jiných knih a studií.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A useful guide to thinking about what dogs need and how to make their lives (and ours) better. I have a structural gripe about the placement of some recommendations in a "resources" section instead of in the main text. The descriptions in the resources section are all so short that there was no point in depriving readers of the info at the point where it was introduced so we could understand what was being recommended without having to go looking for it. But I'm very glad to have the book (and the resources) to refer back to in the future.

[Mrs S M Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

really helpful

I have a reactive Border Collie and was getting into a right mess trying to find my way through a maze of dog training books/videos. This book put everything into perspective helped me to understand how to help her with easy to understand examples and lots of encouragement- not to get myself into a stress about not doing enough with her. Small steps,clear goals, and to keep positive. I would recommend it to every dog owner.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

It took forever to finish this book because the authors’ condescending yet defensive tone really grated on me. There’s a lot more direction about what to do for your dog than actual helpful tips on how to do it. But it’s still a useful and worthwhile read if you are interested in having a happy and contented pup.

[Erika Bresee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not just about snuffle mats and food puzzles!
The authors explain in great detail what the categories of enrichment are and how to meet your dogs needs in each enrichment category so that you and your dog(s) can have a happier, healthier life together! A MUST-READ for all dog owners and dog trainers!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Canine Enrichment - it’s a thing

Excellent well-researched book on creating enrichment for your dog with lots of resources and practical tips for the busy dog lover. You can nerd out to this book or just take home the suggestions that anyone can do.

[Leanna Bergman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book if you have a dog or you're thinking about getting a dog whether it be a puppy or an older dog! The authors also list a ton of other resources and books to expand your knowledge.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a lot of dog training books in the past several months while preparing for my certification exam. If you have a dog, want to get a dog, or want to be involved in training or shelter work read this book.

[ThDogs · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good breadth of ideas for enriching a dogs life. A bit overly wordy on the justification at times - not hugely layman friendly - but would make a good gift to someone who likes to think about the "why" behind the things we or the dogs do.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for dog parents

This book helped me figure out how to add things in a way that improved my dogs’ lives but didn’t make mine too stressed out. They included things I never would’ve considered. Absolutely fantastic.

[Felicia Acelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent read for anyone interesting in dog behavior, welfare, and training. I think it presents evidence-based training and enrichment in a digestible way! Will definitely be going back to this over time, I feel like I have learned a lot!

[M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Digestible and manageable for the most part. A lot of stuff I had gleaned from other sources already but definitely a good reference point, especially for those not exposed to the ideas before. Scientific backup was appreciated.

[Camilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for dog owners! Comprehensive in explaining many concepts and science with references!

[Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every dog parent should read this. The actionable items make it easily accessible to any dog/human relationship.

[Robynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best dog books I have ever read. I’m buying copies to give away in my dog training classes!

[Gerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating and helpful

[Heather S · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorites of all the dog books I’ve read. Lots of practical suggestions with the scientific reasoning behind each suggestion.

[Charlène Bennevault · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazigh read

I toucher I knew a lot about enrichment before this book but it opened my mind To many things and mostly I learnt so much about canine behaviour!

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, a must-read for all dog owners.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do love a good, scientific book with lots of tangible actions and even more resources.

[Chase Warman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good read, I think that everyone with a dog should read this book.