Budget-Friendly Dog Enrichment: Muffin Tin Puzzle

Keeping our dogs mentally stimulated is just as important as physical exercise — and today, I’m sharing three super fun enrichment activities that Cora and Tarzan absolutely love: the Muffin Tin Puzzle Game, the Paper Bag Snack Scrunch, and a tasty twist with Greek yogurt and peanut butter!

Why Enrichment Activities Matter

Just like us, dogs need their brains challenged to stay happy and healthy. Enrichment games reduce boredom, help prevent destructive behavior, and strengthen the bond between you and your pup. Plus, they’re super fun to watch!

What You’ll Need:

• A muffin tin (the kind used for cupcakes)
• Tennis balls or similar-sized balls
• Small treats or kibble
• Paper bag (brown lunch bag or grocery bag)
• Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
• Peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free and dog-safe!)

How to Set Up the Muffin Tin Puzzle:

1. Place a few treats in some of the muffin tin cups.
2. Spread a little Greek yogurt or peanut butter in some of the other cups for a tasty twist.
3. Cover each cup with a tennis ball or leave some open for lapping up the yogurt and peanut butter!
4. Let your dog sniff and figure out how to move the balls or lick the tasty spots to get the rewards.

Adding the Paper Bag Snack Scrunch Challenge

Cut the paper bag into small squares, put treats inside, and scrunch each square into a little ball. Scatter these snack balls around for your pups to sniff out and unwrap. It adds a new texture and extra nose work!

How Cora and Tarzan Play

Cora carefully paws and noses around, thoughtfully uncovering treats and licking the peanut butter spots. Tarzan brings all the excitement, sometimes knocking the whole tin but loving every second of it! Their personalities really shine during these games.

Enrichment Levels:

• Level 1: Muffin tin with treats covered by tennis balls — great for beginners to start problem-solving.
• Level 2: Add the Paper Bag Snack Scrunch — wrapping treats in paper for extra sniffing and paw work.
• Level 3: Add Greek yogurt and peanut butter spread in some muffin tin cups for a tasty challenge that encourages licking and slower eating.

Tips for Success:

• Always supervise your dog during these games to ensure safety.
• Start simple and increase difficulty as your dog gets more confident.
• Use only dog-safe peanut butter and plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt.
• Have fun and celebrate your pup’s successes!

Why I Love These Games

They’re simple, affordable, and mentally stimulating—perfect for keeping Cora and Tarzan happy, engaged, and using their noses and brains. Plus, the peanut butter and yogurt add a yummy bonus they go crazy for!