Crate Training Beyond KONGs: Enrichment Options to Keep Your Dog Happy
Crate training is all about creating a safe, enjoyable space for your dog — somewhere they choose to spend time, feel comfortable, and settle. While KONG toys are a classic go-to, there are plenty of other options to keep crate time engaging and positive.
The goal is to provide mental stimulation and tasty rewards without creating frustration, and without letting your dog associate the crate with boredom.
🧩 Smaller, Stationary Puzzle and Treat Toys
If your dog isn’t a heavy chewer, small stationary puzzle toys or slow feeders can be perfect for crate time.
Examples:
- LickiMat® – Spread soft treats like peanut butter, yogurt, or pumpkin on a LickiMat. Some dogs really enjoy licking for 5–10 minutes, which is calming and mentally engaging.
- Small Non-Moving Puzzle Toys – These are designed for dogs to work out how to get treats without rolling or moving the toy, reducing the risk of crate mess.
⚠️ Only use these if your dog doesn’t destroy or ingest them — safety first!
🦴 Long-Lasting Chews
Long-lasting chews are another excellent crate companion, giving your dog something to focus on while you’re out or busy:
- Beef tendons, bully sticks, or frozen chews – These can take 15–30 minutes (sometimes longer!) for your dog to work through.
- Dental chews – Some dogs enjoy crunching on dental treats that also help clean teeth.
These are particularly useful for dogs who enjoy chewing but might lose interest in food puzzles over time.
🍪 Tips for Using Alternative Crate Toys
- Rotate Options – Keep things novel by switching between chews, LickiMats, and small puzzles. This prevents boredom and keeps the crate exciting.
- Supervised Introduction – Always introduce a new chew or puzzle under supervision first, to ensure your dog doesn’t choke or destroy it too quickly.
- Make It Special – Reserve certain treats or toys exclusively for crate time so the crate becomes a high-value space.
- Pair With Calm Routine – Combine with a comfortable bed, crate cover, or calming background music to help your dog settle.
🎯 The Goal
The right combination of enrichment and chew toys will:
- Encourage independent play and confidence
- Keep your dog mentally stimulated
- Reduce boredom-related behaviours like whining or chewing on furniture
Crate training doesn’t have to rely on KONGs alone. With a mix of stationary puzzles, LickiMats (if safe), and long-lasting chews, you can create a crate your dog loves — a true haven for downtime and relaxation.
🛒 Enrichment Picks for Crate Time
At Eazy Dog Shop, we stock:
- LickiMat® range (for gentle lickers)
- Non-rolling treat puzzles
- Long-lasting chews like bully sticks, beef tendons, and dental chews
