Most "bad" dog behavior — chewed shoes, nuisance barking, counter surfing — is really boredom. Dogs need daily mental work as much as physical exercise, and the easiest way to provide it is through structured chewing and licking activities. Here is how to build a simple enrichment routine with things your dog already loves.
Why chewing and licking calm dogs down
Sustained chewing and repetitive licking both trigger self-soothing behavior in dogs, releasing tension and settling the nervous system. That is why a dog who just finished a good chew session usually naps — and why trainers recommend chew or lick sessions before crate time, guests arriving, or fireworks.
A simple daily enrichment menu
| Time needed | Activity | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 10–15 min | Bully stick session in a safe chew holder | Power chewers, dental health |
| 10–20 min | Frozen lick mat with yogurt or peanut butter | Anxious dogs, calming before events |
| 20–40 min | Deep freeze bowl with frozen dinner layers | Crate time, home-alone stretches |
| 5–10 min | Scatter feeding or snuffle games | Scent-driven breeds |
Chew time, upgraded
Bully sticks are excellent enrichment, but the last inch is a choking hazard. A bully stick holder locks the stick so your dog works the full length safely — turning chew time into a longer, calmer puzzle instead of a race to gulp. New to holders? Start with our step-by-step guide.
Lick and freeze: the low-effort win
The Chewise Freeze Bowl set gives you two difficulty levels: a shallow lick mat for quick 10-minute calm-downs, and a deep bowl that holds up to a cup of frozen food for long sessions. Freeze your dog's regular kibble with wet food or yogurt and you have added 30 minutes of quiet work to their day without adding calories.
Building the routine
- Morning: frozen bowl or lick mat while you get ready
- Midday/alone time: deep freeze bowl in the crate or bed area
- Evening: supervised bully stick session in the holder
Rotate fillings and chew types through the week so it stays novel — novelty is what makes enrichment work.
FAQ
How much enrichment does a dog need daily?
Most dogs do well with 30–60 minutes of combined chewing/licking/sniffing work per day, split into short sessions.
Can puppies do these activities?
Yes — lick mats and freeze bowls are great for teething puppies. For bully sticks, wait until adult teeth come in (around 6 months) and always use a holder.
