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Anxious Pup? Here’s How Scented Enrichment Toys Can Help
Hey parents of anxious pups! You’re clearly here for a reason; you’ve noticed your furry friend seeming a little anxious lately and you think they might benefit from some scented enrichment toys. Are they pacing? Whining? Or maybe even chewing your favourite pair of shoes (again?) If so, it sounds like your dog might be experiencing some anxiety.
Don’t worry, anxiety is normal in dogs – the same as it is in humans! It can be triggered by all sorts of situations, such as loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks, separation when you leave the house for work or to go shopping, or it can simply be because of unfamiliar situations like being in the car or at the vets.
Did you know it’s estimated that around 70% of dogs experience some form of anxiety ? That’s a lot of anxious pups out there who could use some little extra TLC. Here’s the good news: a simple and super fun way to help them out involves scented enrichment toys!
What are Scented Dog Toys?
Scented dog toys, especially anxiety dog toys, that are designed to specifically target nervous dogs, are designed to engage your pup’s powerful sense of smell. Dogs have around 220 million scent receptors in their noses (compared to the mere 5 million us humans have). So, it’s no wonder these scented enrichment toys can have such an impact on the way our dogs behave.
Different scents will cause different reactions in your dog. For example, scented enrichment toys like bacon scented dog toys are going to make your dog’s mouth water and encourage chewing and digging. On the other hand, lavender scented enrichment toys will have a calming effect. These can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Think about the last time your dog showed signs of anxiety. Maybe they get scared during a thunderstorm, react to loud noises, or flashes of lightning and sudden changes in atmosphere. A lot of humans feel uncomfortable during thunderstorms, so it’s no surprise our dogs, with their heightened sense of hearing and smell, can find them stressful. This is where anxiety enrichment toys come in handy – especially lavender scented enrichment toys. They’ll offer a soothing distraction and provide a sense of security.
How Different Scents Can Help Anxious Dogs
As we explained above, your dog’s powerful sniffer can do more than just find hidden treats. It can help calm their nerves and distract their brains while anxiety-inducing scenarios might be occurring. But which scents are best for calming down anxious dogs?
Lavender Scented Dog Toys
In our opinion, lavender scented enrichment toys are some of the best for calming down your pup. In the same way, human spas use lavender to relax us, dogs are also eased by lavender’s soothing properties. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, lavender can significantly reduce stress in dogs. The study found that dogs exposed to lavender showed less movement and more relaxed behaviours, suggesting that the scent has a calming effect on our four-legged friends.
Bacon Scented Dog Toys
Scented dog toys don’t have to boast an aroma conventionally relaxing. For example, bacon scented enrichment toys can simply provide comfort to your pup by distracting them. Toys scented in your pup’s favourite flavours can keep them engaged and happy, turning those anxious moments into a bacon-scented paradise. Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the smell of bacon sizzling in the morning?
Vanilla Scented Dog Toys
Sweet, soothing vanilla is another scent popular with our fur babies. Like a warm hug in scent form, vanilla scented enrichment toys are also proven to calm down anxious dogs. The gentle aroma of vanilla creates a serene environment, making it a perfect ingredient to include in enrichment toys for anxious dogs.
Coconut Scented Dog Toys
Similarly, coconut scented enrichment toys will have a soothing effect on your dog. We can’t always take our pups on holiday with us – as much as we would like to – but the next best thing would be to treat them to a coconut scented dog toy that transports them to their own tropical paradise. The fresh and sweet scent can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. We think coconut scented enrichment toys feel particularly well suited to the summer months – for example why not place one in the car with them on your next summer road trip?
Mint Scented Dog Toys
Mint isn’t just for freshening breath – it can also calm your pup! Mint scented enrichment toys are great for reducing stress and promoting mental clarity. If your dog tends to get anxious during training sessions or in new environments, the refreshing scent of mint can help them stay focused and relaxed. Plus, minty-fresh cuddles are a bonus!
Types of Scented Enrichment Toys
Convinced of the benefits of scented enrichment toys? Great! Now, it’s time to take a look at the different types of scented dog toys and anxiety enrichment toys available here at WOOOF. All these toys utilise the power of engaging scents to create fun activities, encourage scent training and problem-solving, and help with anxiety reduction.
Scented Lick Mats
Scented lick mats are a fantastic tool for engaging your dog's sense of smell and taste. We recommend smearing your dog’s favourite spreads onto the mats (peanut butter and pumpkin spice butter are favourites with our pups!) along with fun food toppers, and your dog will have no choice but to dig in!
The act of licking is naturally calming for dogs, so this alone can help reduce anxiety during stressful situations. But with the added calming scents already found on the scented lick mat combined with their favourite smelling treats, your dog will instantly feel at ease. Plus, lick mats are great for promoting problem solving and mental stimulation.
Scented Fetch Sticks
Is your pooch partial to a game of fetch? If so, adding a scent element to a game of fetch can take it to a whole new level. Scented fetch sticks, like Project Hive’s Scented Fetch Sticks, are infused with aromas like lavender and coconut to make the game more exciting and rewarding. The scent will help your pup track the stick more easily, enhancing their scent training skills.
The combination of physical exercise and engaging scent work can be incredibly effective in reducing anxiety. Chasing and retrieving a familiar, pleasant-smelling toy provides comfort and excitement, helping to tire out even the most energetic pups. Plus, when the game of fetch is over, your dog can enjoy a gentle chew on their scented enrichment toy to get even more relaxing benefits from it.
Scented Chew Toys
Chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs and one that can relieve stress and anxiety. Scented chew toys infused with scents like vanilla or bacon make this activity even more beneficial. The appealing aroma encourages dogs to chew on the toy instead of your furniture. As they chew, dogs are not only reducing their anxiety but also engaging in problem-solving as they figure out how to get the most out of the scented enrichment toy.
We love the "Brain Dead" Dog Chew Toy with Bacon Scent. It’s not only a playful design, inspired by a Zombie brain, but it is made of super resistant rubber with a soft bacon scent. We have no doubt your pooch will find the smell tempting, becoming too distracted by the aroma and taste to care about any anxiety-inducing situations going on around them.
Scented Treat Dispensers
Say that again? You can combine the allure of your dog’s favourite treats with a relaxing scent? Yes, and it may just be the perfect scented enrichment toy for anxious dogs. These interactive toys can be filled with your dog’s favourite treats; then, it’s their job to figure out how to dispense them to get them in their belly.
The added scent of the treat dispenser not only helps calm and distract your dog but makes it harder for them to figure out how to dispense the treats inside, as the two scents clash. It’s another great scented dog toy that promotes problem-solving skills and mental engagement. The effort required to get the treat alone helps to reduce anxiety by providing a constructive outlet for your dog's energy and focus.
Scented Soft Dog Toys
Even humans are relaxed by scented hot water bottles and teddy bears, so it fares our dogs will enjoy snuggling with a scented dog toy too. Soft dog toys infused with calming scents like lavender can be a great comfort to dogs who suffer from anxiety. The toys provide a familiar, soothing aroma that can help ease stress and create a sense of security.
The Calming Pals Lavender Scent Sheep is the perfect scented enrichment toy for young pups getting used to being left alone, or dogs that want something soft to join them in their crate or the car. The soft, woolly fur of the sheep smells of lavender, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
Our Favourite Lavender Scented Dog Toys
As you can probably tell, lavender scented enrichment toys are our absolute favourite dog toys for anxious dogs. The soothing properties of lavender have been scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. They are perfect for pups who have a tendency to get stressed or overwhelmed, whether that’s during thunderstorms, vet visits, or when left alone. The calming aroma of lavender will help lower their heart rate and ease nervousness. But what are the best lavender scented toys for anxious dogs? Here are our top picks…
Hive Lavender Scented Dog Disc & Lick Mat
The ultimate scented enrichment toy with dual purpose, the Hive Lavender Scented Dog Disc & Lick Mat is – as its name suggests – both a lick mat and frisbee! One side is textured for spreading your dog’s favourite treats on and the other is smooth, letting it effortlessly fly through the air for an exhilarating game of fetch. Its' lavender scent is a bonus, keeping your dog relaxed and soothed when the game of fetch is done.
Hive Lavender Scented Treat Dispenser
Project Hive also has a matching Hive Lavender Scented Treat Dispenser. This scented enrichment toy combines the calming properties of lavender with the joy of your dog’s favourite snacks. By associating the act of retrieving treats with the calming aroma of lavender, this dispenser not only satisfies your dog's taste buds but also creates a tranquil environment, distracting your dog and calming its nerves.
Calming Pals Lavender Scent Sheep
We think the Calming Pals Lavender Scent Sheep is perfect for small dogs that get anxious on road trips or vet visits. The soft, plush scented enrichment toy is infused with a calming lavender scent, providing comfort and reassurance to young pups encountering new experiences like loud noises or separation anxiety. It’s not one we recommend for heavy chewers, but it will work great with small and young dogs that are looking for a sense of security during those stressful moments. Plus, the softness of the toy makes it ideal for snuggling.
Honourable Mention: "Keep Calm" Hypoallergenic Wellness Calming Treats for Dogs
It might not be a scented enrichment toy, but the “Keep Calm" Hypoallergenic Wellness Calming Treats for Dogs deserve an honourable mention! These delicious treats are perfect for giving to your pup right before bed, or ahead of an anxiety-inducing situation such as going in the car or being left alone. They are made with camomile and lavender, two tasty ingredients known to aid stress and anxiety. They are 100% hypoallergenic and natural, gluten free, and plant-based for an added bonus!
DIY Scented Enrichment Toys
Looking for scented enrichment toys on a budget? Don’t worry, we’ve got you there too. Here are some creative ways you can transform your pre-owned dog toys into anxiety reducing accessories:
Dog Calming Spray
One of the best ways to utilise your already full-to-the-brim dog toy basket is by buying some Dog Calming Spray. Designed to alleviate anxiety, the safe formula can be confidently sprayed across all your pup’s favourite toys and bedding to create a tranquil oasis they’ll love. The spray harnesses the power of natural lavender to calm your canine companion in stressful situations and promises fast-acting relief that lasts. This one is perfect for those of you looking for dog calming sprays that turn dog toys you already own into scented enrichment toys for anxious dogs.
Natural Shampoo for Dogs
Another great way to calm down your anxious pup is by transforming bathtime into a spa-like experience. The Clean Dog Co's Natural Shampoo for Dogs is perfect for this. It incorporates soothing chamomile extract, lavender oil and rosemary oil so you can pamper your furry friend with the most calming scents. We’re serious; give your dog a real spa day – cucumbers and all (yes, cucumbers are a great snack for canines) – and indulge them in a luxury lather. The natural will not only clean and condition their coat, but they’ll be relaxed all day long with the calming aroma of lavender following them wherever they go.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a complete guide to scented enrichment toys for dogs. Hopefully, as we’ve proven, these nice smelling goodies open up a world of calming and comforting possibilities for our furry companions. Whether it’s using scented toys for anxious dogs during fireworks, alone time or travel, or incorporating scented enrichment toys into a daily routine, these toys, treats and accessories play a crucial role in improving our dogs’ wellbeing.
Lavender scented enrichment toys are proven to be one of the best for nervous canines. They create a soothing environment that promotes a sense of security and comfort. And of course, us pet parents want nothing more than a calm, happy and enriched pup!
The Author: Charlotte Harris
Charlotte has been a writer and dog owner her whole life, so combining these two things together is a dream come true. Her greatest love is her oversized Golden Retriever, Milo, who has a love of tough chews and anything filled with peanut butter!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Scented Dog Toys Safe for My Dog?
Absolutely! Scented dog toys are designed with your furry friend's safety in mind. Most scented enrichment toys use natural, non-toxic scents like lavender or chamomile, which are not only safe but also beneficial for your dog. These calming scents can help reduce anxiety and create a soothing environment for your pup.
Of course, it's always a good idea to check the ingredients and make sure the toys are made from pet-safe materials. Plus, if your dog has any specific allergies or sensitivities, keep those in mind when picking out new toys for them.
What Are the Best Scents for Anxious Dogs?
As we’ve hopefully explained in this blog, one of the best scents for anxious dogs is lavender. Lavender scented enrichment toys are known for their calming effects and their magical power to help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs. Other scents also known to help relax pups include chamomile, rosemary and vanilla.
Can All Dogs Use Scented Enrichment Toys?
Most dogs can enjoy scented enrichment toys, but there are a few factors to consider to ensure they're a good fit for your furry friend. Most importantly, be mindful of allergies and sensitivities. Some dogs might have reactions to certain scents or materials, especially if they have a history of skin issues or respiratory problems. In such cases, it's best to consult with your vet before introducing scented toys.
