Hey dog enthusiasts!
As we dive further into July, I want to talk a little bit more about keeping our furry friends entertained and mentally stimulated, especially when it's hot outside. Two popular options for dog enrichment that you might have heard of are treat hiding toys, and what was mentioned last week, Lickimats. Both are fantastic choices, but they have their own unique benefits. Let’s break it down to see which might be the best fit for your pup!
Treat HidingToys: Treat hiding toys are classic for a reason—they're durable, versatile, and can keep your dog engaged for hours. Here’s what makes them great:
Pros:
Durability: treat hiding toys are known for their toughness, making them suitable for even the most enthusiastic chewers.
Stuffability: You can fill Kongs with a variety of treats like peanut butter, yogurt, or even freeze them with broth for a refreshing challenge.
Versatility: They come in different sizes and types (classic, extreme, puppy), so there's a treat hiding toy for every dog's chewing strength and preference
Cons:
Initial Learning Curve: Some dogs may need a bit of encouragement or training to figure out how to get the treats out.
Potential Mess: Stuffing treat hiding toys with moist fillings like yogurt or peanut butter can get a bit messy, so it's best to give them to your dog in a designated area.
Lickimats:Lickimats have gained popularity recently for their ability to provide both mental stimulation and a soothing activity for dogs. Here’s why they’re a hit:
Pros:
Calming Effect: Licking is a natural behavior that can have a calming effect on dogs, making Lickimats perfect for anxious or stressed pups.
Variety of Uses: You can spread various treats like yogurt, pureed fruits, or even wet dog food on Lickimats, then freeze them for a longer-lasting treat.
Easy to Clean: Most Lickimats are dishwasher safe or easy to clean by hand, which is a bonus for busy pet parents.
Cons:
Less Durability: Lickimats are typically made of silicone or rubber, so they may not be as durable as treat hiding toys for heavy chewers.
Limited Stuffing Options: Unlike treat hiders, which can hold a wide range of treats and even meals, Lickimats are primarily for spreading softer treats.
Choosing the Right Option: When deciding between treat hiding toys and Lickimats, consider your dog's personality, chewing habits, and preferences. If your dog loves to chew and needs something tough and long-lasting, a Kong might be the way to go. On the other hand, if your dog enjoys licking and could benefit from a soothing, mentally stimulating activity, a Lickimat could be the perfect fit.
Final Thoughts: Whether you opt for the durability and stuffability of treat hiding toys or the calming and enriching qualities of Lickimats, both options are excellent tools for keeping your dog happy and engaged, especially during the summer months. Feel free to experiment with different treats and fillings to see what your pup loves the most!