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Have you ever wondered when it’s time to bring dog enrichment indoors for your favorite small dog?
Challenges from Big Dogs
If you have a small dog, you know they face certain challenges that larger dogs don’t- they are more susceptible to injuries from big dogs. Small dogs can feel intimidated or threatened by them and playing with bigger dogs can lead to frustration.
Sometimes, it truly feels like a big dog world! Bringing dog enrichment indoors makes a space for super tiny dogs, older dogs, or our shier friends to really explore their senses in a safe way- and allows them to build up more confidence.
Big Obstacles for Small Legs
There’s also the fact that your small dog is just that- small! Exploring the world can feel more challenging with short legs- and tall grass, obstacles, and long distances mean that your small dog may physically tire out before they’ve had their mental fill of the outside world! And that outdoor world is filled with enrichment with different smells, sounds and sensations that give your dog much to think about and process.
See, studies have shown that 15 minutes of mental enrichment is as effective as four times- that’s one hour- or physical activity!
Temperature Swings for Small Dogs
Many small dogs are more susceptible to temperature swings- they’re closer to the ground, many of them are bred with shorter coats for hot temperatures like Chihuahuas, or short nosed brachycephalic breeds like Shih Tzus- basically, they aren’t really made for the great outdoors like a Husky or a GSP but their brains still need a considerable amount of mental exercise.
So when the temperatures skyrocket in the summer or dive in the winter, giving your small dog a snuffle mat or enrichment toys allows them to get the mental exercise they need even when going outside could be dangerous.
Short Days = Less Time Outside (usually)
As the days get short and there’s little daylight after work it can be hard to get your dog out enough. Indoor enrichment will simulate the outdoor enrichment time they’re missing, and creating games like hide and seek or other nose work exercises can replicate the sniffing and searching they enjoy outside.
Giving your dog active ways to enjoy enrichment indoors to either augment their time outdoors or entirely replace it is a great way to keep their brains happy and healthy no matter what happens outdoors!
Interested in having a monthly dog subscription box delivery of the highest quality small dog toys and healthy dog treats sent to your best friend? Check out the Bits and Paws Box!
