FAQs

How do I know which enrichment item is right for my dog?

Different dogs enjoy different types of challenges. Some prefer sniffing and searching, while others enjoy moving pieces, opening compartments, licking, or figuring out how to access food. The item description can help you choose, and you can contact me if you are unsure where to start.

Does my dog need experience with puzzle toys?

No. Beginners can absolutely use enrichment rentals. If your dog is new to puzzles, start with an easier setup and help them learn how the activity works rather than making it as difficult as possible right away.

What if the puzzle is too difficult for my dog?

Make it easier. Enrichment should encourage your dog to participate, not leave them frustrated. You can use fewer pieces, leave compartments partially open, place food somewhere easier to access, or help your dog understand the activity before increasing the difficulty.

What if the enrichment toy is too easy for my dog?

That is okay too. An activity does not have to be difficult to be enriching. You can sometimes increase the challenge by changing how food is placed, adding another step, or combining the item with a search or sniffing activity.

What can I put inside the enrichment toys?

That depends on the item, but many can be used with your dog's regular food, kibble, treats, or other appropriate foods. Always use something that is safe for your individual dog and suitable for the specific enrichment item.

Can enrichment replace my dog's walks or training?

No. Enrichment is one part of meeting a dog's needs. It can provide useful mental activity, sniffing, problem-solving, and variety, but it does not replace appropriate exercise, social opportunities, rest, training, or other activities your individual dog needs.

Can enrichment help my dog settle at home?

It can. Appropriate enrichment can give dogs a productive outlet and can be especially useful as part of a routine before downtime. It is not a guaranteed solution for difficulty settling, but it can be one useful part of the overall picture.

Can enrichment help with boredom?

Yes. Giving your dog different ways to forage, sniff, search, lick, chew, or problem-solve can add variety to their day and give them appropriate activities to engage with.

Should I supervise my dog while using a rental?

Yes. Rental enrichment items should be used under supervision. They are activities for your dog to interact with, not chew toys to be left unattended with, unless an individual item's instructions specifically say otherwise.

What if my dog tries to chew or destroy the puzzle?

Prevent access and remove the item if your dog begins chewing pieces rather than using it as intended. You can try an easier activity, add food to help clarify how the puzzle works, or choose a different style of enrichment that is a better fit for your dog.

Can puppies use Enrichment Rentals?

Yes, as long as the item is appropriate for the puppy's size, behaviour and chewing habits. Supervision is especially important because puppies may be more likely to explore puzzle pieces with their mouths.

Can senior dogs use enrichment toys?

Absolutely! Enrichment can be adapted to the individual dog. For senior dogs, an easier puzzle or activity that does not require difficult physical movements may be more appropriate while still giving them an opportunity to sniff and problem-solve.

Do I need to use treats?

No. Many enrichment items can be used with part of your dog's regular meal. Using their normal food can be an easy way to add enrichment without necessarily adding extra calories.

Where do I pick up my rental?

Rentals can be picked up near Square One in Mississauga (you will be contacted with the exact address when renting). Depending on your schedule, pickup may also be arranged around an existing private or group session when practical.

How do I return my rental?

Return details will be provided with your rental so you know when and where the item needs to come back. Please return all pieces that came with the item.

Are the enrichment items cleaned between dogs?

Yes. Rental items are cleaned between rentals before being provided to another dog. What happens if my dog damages or loses part of a rental?

Because these items are being shared, please supervise your dog and keep track of all pieces. If an item is damaged or a piece is lost, please reach out so that we can determine whether it can be replaced or if a replacement charge applies. A replacement charge has never been necessary in the past, with other pet parents.

Can I rent the same enrichment toy again?

Yes, if it is available. You can also rotate through different rentals to give your dog more variety and learn which types of enrichment they enjoy most.

Can I rent more than one enrichment item at a time?

If multiple items are available, you may be able to rent more than one. Check the current rental options or contact me if you want to put together a small enrichment rotation for your dog.