Enrichment is about more than just toys—it’s providing mental stimulation, problem-solving opportunities, and purposeful activity that taps into your dog’s natural instincts. For hounds, this is especially important. These dogs are bred to sniff, hunt, and track, so without structured outlets for those behaviors, they can become bored, anxious, or even destructive.

Hounds in particular need enrichment because they are highly scent-driven. Their brains are wired to explore the world through smell. What’s often seen as “stubbornness” is usually just a strong sense of independence and motivation rooted in scent. When their needs aren’t met, they may bark excessively, dig, chew inappropriate objects, or try to escape. Providing consistent enrichment helps prevent these issues and supports their overall well-being.

There are several types of enrichment that are especially effective for hounds. Scent-based activities like nose work and scent games are ideal. You can hide treats in boxes or around the yard, scatter kibble in the grass to create a foraging experience, or use snuffle mats and rolled-up towels. Puzzle feeders also offer great mental stimulation—slow feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and frozen Kongs can turn meals into interactive challenges. For dogs who love to chew or destroy, safe “destruction-friendly” play like shredding cardboard (with tape and staples removed) or tearing into treat-filled boxes gives them a healthy outlet. Lick mats and long-lasting chews are another great option—spreading peanut butter, yogurt, or canned food onto a silicone mat and freezing it can provide both mental stimulation and calming effects.

Interactive time with their human is also key. Short, focused training sessions (just 5–10 minutes) help build confidence and engagement, while games like tug, fetch, or teaching them to identify toys by name are both fun and enriching.

You can also make your own enrichment tools at home. Try rolling kibble into a towel for a snuffle roll, nesting treat-filled boxes for a layered challenge, or stuffing kibble into toilet paper tubes and placing them in a shoebox for an added level of difficulty. A frozen enrichment bowl—layering kibble, broth, and treats in a bowl and freezing it overnight—can provide long-lasting entertainment and sensory engagement.

Enrichment isn’t optional—it’s a vital part of a dog’s care, just like regular vet visits or daily exercise. For rescued hounds, especially those adjusting to a new home, enrichment plays a key role in building trust, confidence, and stability.