A simple towel game shared by a dog trainer is quickly gaining traction online for its ability to keep pups entertained and mentally stimulated, offering a low-cost alternative to expensive enrichment toys.
Easy Enrichment for Energetic Pups
A quick and easy activity can provide mental stimulation for dogs of all ages.
- Dog trainer Tom Davis demonstrated a simple enrichment activity using a towel and treats.
- The game taps into a dog’s natural foraging instincts and can keep them occupied for up to 20 minutes.
- Supervision is essential, especially for puppies who may be inclined to chew the towel.
- The American Kennel Club notes that scent-based activities can reduce boredom and provide mental stimulation.
Dog trainer Tom Davis recently shared a straightforward enrichment activity that requires no new purchases and works for dogs of any age. Davis demonstrated the technique in a TikTok video posted on January 13, showcasing how to transform an ordinary towel into a captivating puzzle.
The process is similar to snuffle mats, which encourage dogs to use their noses to find hidden food. Instead of buying a specialized mat, Davis sprinkles treats along one side of a large towel, folds it over, gently crushes the treats to release their scent, and continues folding before rolling the towel into a loose bundle. He then ties the towel into a soft knot, allowing the dog to sniff, nudge, and work through the fabric to uncover the hidden rewards.
Is this game safe for all dogs? While effective, supervision is key, particularly with puppies still learning appropriate chewing behaviors. Several viewers noted their dogs are enthusiastic towel chewers.
The video resonated with many dog owners, who shared their own experiences in the comments. One user, @i_am_ptaylordactyl, commented, “I do this all the time. I twist it and tie the towel in a knot, though. He’s a pro at untying towels now lol.” Another, @primedogos, added, “This is our favorite game on days we’re snowed in!” A third suggested using a bedsheet with multiple knots for a longer-lasting challenge, potentially keeping a dog engaged for 15 to 20 minutes.
Mental enrichment is crucial for a dog’s overall well-being. According to the American Kennel Club, scent-based activities like snuffle mat games can help alleviate boredom, provide mental stimulation, and offer a constructive outlet for excess energy. These games encourage problem-solving and nose work, which can be as tiring as physical exercise.
Davis also shared a hide-and-seek training video on January 17, offering another example of how to keep dogs mentally engaged. With winter weather and big snow in the forecast across much of the country, indoor enrichment activities are especially valuable when long walks aren’t feasible.
This simple towel game provides a constructive way to occupy puppies and older dogs alike, offering a fun and engaging alternative to traditional playtime.
