Did you know that when dogs engage in species typical behaviors it calms them? Let’s back up and find out what are species typical behaviors? What can I do to start calming my rambunctious or stressed and anxious dog?
Let’s take a deep dive into this segment of an enrichment plan.

Species typical behaviors are those behaviors that dogs engage in naturally. These can be for dogs as a whole or we can break down behaviors by breed. While I personally look at each dog as an individual and I don’t look too far into breed stereotypes, it is true that different breeds are bred for specific purposes. You wouldn’t see a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel engaged in herding behaviors any more than you would see a Border Collie digging for rodents. A big however, is that because we are dealing with living beings, you can still have a Boarder Collie that digs in the backyard and a Cavalier who runs around your ankles.

If you are like me, when you think of enrichment you think of puzzle toys and putting your dog’s food in these brain teasing toys. While that can be a small part of enrichment, it is just that – a very small part.

Enrichment is defined as those physical, mental, and social activities that a dog does to meet their basic needs.
And let’s face it, if basic needs are not being met that is when we see behavior issues. I believe that we need to meet a dog’s basic needs before starting on a training plan.