Traditional feeding bowls may be quick and convenient for owners, but they often provide little stimulation for dogs. In their 2023 study published in The Veterinary Record, Madeline Heys, Ian Lloyd, and Carri Westgarth conducted the first large-scale survey examining who uses canine enrichment feeding (CEF), how it’s implemented, and what benefits and challenges owners perceive.
The study gathered responses from 1,750 dog owners via an online survey, assessing demographic factors, feeding practices, and dog behavior using the Mini-Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ). The most commonly used enrichment items were Kongs, chews, and activity toys, typically employed to deliver meals, treats, or occupy dogs during downtime. Owners who engaged in enrichment feeding reported numerous benefits, including reduced begging, less food-seeking behavior, and improved mental stimulation.
Owners also noted that enrichment feeding helped address certain behavioral problems, such as restlessness and attention-seeking, suggesting that CEF may enhance dogs’ emotional wellbeing. However, some respondents identified time constraints as a major barrier to using these methods regularly. Older male owners and those with older or working-type dogs were less likely to use enrichment feeding, often due to lower perceived need or convenience challenges.
The findings indicate that interactive feeding methods can enhance canine welfare by mimicking natural foraging behaviors and providing mental engagement during daily routines. While the study’s cross-sectional design limits causal conclusions, it highlights a clear association between enrichment feeding and improved quality of life in dogs. The authors recommend future experimental research to further evaluate how different feeding strategies influence canine behavior and wellbeing.
Source: Heys, M., Lloyd, I., & Westgarth, C. (2023). “Bowls are boring”: Investigating enrichment feeding for pet dogs and the perceived benefits and challenges. The Veterinary Record, e3169, published June 22, 2023.
