The Busy Dog's DIY Treat Board

Picture this: you’re trying to finish up some work from home, but your dog won’t stop dropping a soggy tennis ball at your feet. You know they need mental stimulation while you're busy. Enter The Busy Dog's DIY Treat Board, a simple, engaging project that'll keep your dog occupied and happy.

🧶 What You’ll Need

• A flat, sturdy board (a wooden cutting board or a large, clean piece of cardboard)
• Empty toilet paper rolls or paper towel tubes
• Old socks or fabric scraps
• Safe, dog-friendly treats like small pieces of carrot, apple, or commercial dog treats
• Optional: Muffin tin for extra layers of complexity

✂️ Step-by-Step Instructions

• Place the board on a flat surface where your dog usually plays.
• Arrange the toilet paper rolls or tubes upright on the board — you can use as many as will fit snugly without tipping over too easily.
• Fill each tube with your dog's favorite treats, but don't overpack them. This should be a challenge, not a frustration.
• Cover a few tubes with fabric scraps or old socks to increase the difficulty level. This will also introduce different textures for your pet to explore.
• If using a muffin tin, place it on the board and add a treat in each cup. Cover some of the treats with a fabric scrap for added complexity.
• Allow your dog to explore the treat board under supervision, showing them how to uncover or tip over the tubes for rewards.

🧠 Why This Toy Is Great for Dogs

This DIY treat board engages your dog's natural instincts for scavenging and problem-solving. It can help alleviate boredom, reduce anxiety, and sharpen your pet's cognitive abilities. The textures and motions involved also help fulfill chewing needs, contributing to dental health. Plus, it’s an excellent way for you to bond with your pet while they learn to solve this delightful puzzle.

⚠️ Safety Tips

Always supervise your dog while they play with the DIY treat board. Inspect the board and materials for any signs of wear or damage before and after each use, and discard any frayed or chewed materials. According to the ASPCA, avoid using materials like rubber bands, batteries, or toys with small detachable parts (source).

💡 Vet-Approved Advice

Every dog is different, so tailor the treat board to suit your pet's size and temperament. For larger dogs, consider using more tubes or heavier materials to prevent the board from moving around too much. For extra-small or timid dogs, start with fewer challenges and gradually increase the complexity. Rotate homemade toys regularly to maintain your dog’s interest and ensure they are always excited for playtime.

FAQs

Q: How long will this toy last?
A: It depends on your dog’s chewing style. For heavy chewers, supervise closely and reinforce with extra knots or layers.

Q: Is this safe for puppies?
A: Yes, as long as you use soft, puppy-safe materials and always supervise them while playing.

Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.