Shelter living can be stressful, lonely, and boring. Many dogs experience stress from noise, being around other dogs, working with many dog walkers and staff members, and from transportation while their stay at SHS. SHS Kennel Staff make enrichment treats for the dogs to help with high levels of stress and to help avoid unwanted behavior.
Enrichment in Kennels states: “Nutritional enrichment encourages animals to use natural foraging/feeding behaviors to earn food.”
Making Enrichment Treats is easy! Follow along to make your own at home:
Step 1: Grab a puzzle feeder or muffin tray and cover the bottom with dog food.
Step 2: Scoop a small amount (about 1 tbsp) of peanut butter and spread over the dog food.
*Important note: too much peanut butter can cause vomiting or diarrhea*
Step 3: Scoop a small amount (about 1 tbsp) of coconut oil and spread over the dog food.
*Important note: check with your vet before giving your dog coconut oil since some animals are allergic to it*
Step 4: Cut up dog treats and sprinkle over the mixture.
Step 5: Pour a small amount (about 1/4 cup for a mid-large size dog) of vegetable, chicken, or beef broth into the mixture.
*Important note: Check with a vet before giving your dog broth since some animals are allergic to it. AND make sure the broth doesn’t have onions or garlic since those ingredients are toxic to dogs*
Step 6: Fill the rest of the puzzle feeder or muffin tray with water and then place them in the freezer until frozen.
There are many recipes online for frozen enrichment treats, but with limited ingredients these are the simple steps SHS Kennel Tech Staff follow to make yummy dog treats.
It depends on the dog, but most pups here at SHS LOVE their enrichment treats.
According to, Enrichment in Kennels: “The purpose of enrichment is to reduce stress in dogs and to reinforce socialization practices. Providing a dog with enrichment allows the animal to have a sense of control over their environment, which can help to reduce and avoid stress.”
