Sometimes My Dogs Just Need a Job

Dogs were designed to do things. They were built to sniff, chew, lick, explore, and solve problems. If we don't give them appropriate ways to use those instincts, they'll usually create their own entertainment. Unfortunately, their version of entertainment sometimes involves throw pillows, shoes, or whatever happens to be within reach. I'd much rather give them an outlet before they decide to redecorate my house.

One of my favorite boredom busters is a simple lick mat. People often think it's just a fun gadget, but there's actually a reason I like them so much. Licking is naturally calming for many dogs. If you've ever noticed your dog licking the floor when they're nervous or anxiously grooming themselves, you've seen that instinct at work. I'd rather channel that energy into something productive.

I'll spread a little gently cooked food, goat milk, or another healthy topper onto the mat and pop it into the freezer. Suddenly a snack that would have disappeared in thirty seconds turns into fifteen or twenty minutes of mental enrichment. During our Florida summers, the frozen treat is an added bonus.

I also learned—thanks to Lucky—that suction cups only work if you actually use them. The first time I forgot, he proudly marched through the house carrying his lick mat like he'd won a trophy. I couldn't even be mad because he looked so pleased with himself. Those same suction cups are wonderful during bath time, too. Stick the mat to the side of the tub, and most dogs become far more interested in dinner than the shampoo bottle.

Not every activity has to revolve around licking. Puzzle feeders are another favorite because they make dogs think. Whether you use kibble, freeze-dried food, gently cooked food, or a few healthy treats, your dog has to work for every bite. People are always surprised when I tell them that twenty minutes of mental work can tire some dogs just as much as another walk around the neighborhood.

And then there's chewing. Dogs have a natural need to chew, and I never try to stop that instinct. I just try to give them better choices. There are wonderful collagen chews, no-hide chews, natural dental chews, and Himalayan yak cheese chews that satisfy that need while giving them something productive to do.

My own crew would probably vote for raw marrow bones. I buy mine frozen from Leo & Lucky's, but if you're not local, ask for raw marrow bones at a quality independent pet store near you. Look for bones intended specifically for dogs. I prefer raw bones because they haven't been cooked, and I know exactly where they came from. Call me picky, but I'd rather avoid any extra 'cooties' that can come from bones that weren't intended for pet use. As with any chew, always choose the appropriate size for your dog and supervise them while they're enjoying it.

Once my dogs have cleaned the marrow out, I don't throw the bones away. They go right back into the freezer until I've saved enough to make homemade bone broth. It's an easy way to create a nutritious topper that's full of moisture, naturally occurring collagen, and wonderful flavor. If you've followed me for any length of time, you already know my favorite nutrition reminder: moisture, moisture, moisture.

I think that's really the point of all of this. Enrichment doesn't have to be expensive, and it certainly doesn't require a house full of gadgets. Sometimes all we're doing is finding simple ways to let dogs be dogs. Let them sniff. Let them lick. Let them chew. Let them solve little problems. Those natural behaviors build confidence, reduce boredom, and often prevent the behaviors we'd rather not deal with later.

Sometimes the best thing we can do isn't another walk around the block.

Sometimes it's simply giving our dogs a job.

Rachel's Way: Food Should Have a Purpose

Food isn't just about filling a bowl. It can be a reward, a source of hydration, a way to encourage natural behaviors, and one more opportunity to enrich your dog's day. Whether it's a frozen lick mat, a puzzle feeder, or homemade bone broth, every meal is another chance to nourish both the body and the mind.