A Summertime Real-Life Hack for Picky Pups
When most people think of frozen dog enrichment ideas, they picture LickiMats filled with peanut butter, bananas, or blueberries. But what if your dog hates fruit and veggies?
That’s exactly the case with my own dog, Reiver — a driven and energetic Koolie who makes it very clear when something isn’t to his taste. Instead of sweet frozen treats, I’ve started creating meat-based enrichment activities that match what he loves. Think pureed chicken, and a dollop of liver pâté on a LickiMat. Frozen overnight, and voilà — an enrichment activity he’ll actually use.
This approach is a helpful reminder that dog enrichment works best when it’s tailored to the individual dog.
Enrichment that Works for Your Dog
As a full-time, in-home dog trainer serving Hellertown, Center Valley, Coopersburg, and Easton, I often meet dog parents who feel discouraged when their pup ignores the enrichment ideas they found online. But here’s the truth: your dog doesn’t need to love fruit. They just need options that respect their preferences and support their mental and emotional health.
Frozen meat-based enrichment is ideal for:
- Picky eaters
- Dogs with sensitive stomachs
- Puppies with growing appetites
- Dogs working on crate training
- Overstimulated or high-energy dogs
- Service dogs and therapy dogs needing calm focus
It’s not about making enrichment “Pinterest-perfect.” It’s about creating real solutions that help your dog thrive — emotionally, behaviorally, and nutritionally.
Real-Life Training Tip from a Lehigh Valley Dog Trainer
When it comes to behavior, enrichment is just as important as obedience. Dogs need outlets for their instincts — licking, chewing, sniffing, problem-solving — especially when they’re working through big emotions or adjusting to a new environment.
That’s why my custom dog training programs for families in the Lehigh Valley include practical, everyday enrichment ideas tailored to your lifestyle and your dog’s temperament.
And if you’re too busy and don’t have the time for weekly puppy classes PLUS homework? Take a vacation and sign up for our puppy board and train.
If your dog doesn’t like blueberries, that’s not a failure — it’s feedback. Try different textures, temperatures, and flavors. You’ll be surprised what they respond to when you follow their lead.
Looking for a Dog Trainer in Hellertown, Center Valley, Coopersburg, or Easton?
If you’re ready to feel more confident in how you raise, train, and bond with your dog, I’m here to help. Whether you’re working with a high-energy puppy, a picky eater, or a future service dog, I offer compassionate, in-home dog training that helps you build the relationship you’ve always wanted.
🐾 Schedule your free discovery call
🌐 Visit www.caitlinsanimals.com to explore services
📍 Proudly serving Hellertown, Center Valley, Coopersburg, Easton, and the greater Lehigh Valley
Until next time — lead with love, and the rest will follow.