Kongs for Enrichment – Protection Dogs Worldwide

The Kong is perhaps one of the best ever designed dog toys, and something we would recommend all owners invest in. We have used Kongs extensively, and can personally attest to just how good they are. The basic Kong is a rubber chew toy made up of three increasingly small balls stacked on top of each other to resemble a snowman. Its inside is hollow, and it is remarkably robust. Kongs come in multiple sizes, so are suitable for the largest to smallest dog.

The Kong’s genius is that despite its simplicity, it is as versatile as it is dependable. We have used Kongs in the same way as a tennis ball, as an extremely durable chew toy, and even a puzzle. Kongs are, for want of a better word, bulletproof. They are one of the most durable toys we have come across, and can last well over five years before wearing out or degrading, even in the jaws of our largest Cane Corsos.

If your dog shows a strong preference for Kongs over other toys and types of balls, then you may want to consider reserving it as a particularly “high-value” treat to help focus training sessions. Only giving them brief access to a Kong when desired behaviours are performed on command prevents the toy from becoming devalued, and can act as a powerful incentive during obedience work. For this to work, though, owners must be disciplined and keep high-value treats reserved for very specific times, or risk their effectiveness being reduced.

Kongs can also be used as a food-dispensing puzzle toy. Kongs are designed to have a large internal cavity which can be stuffed with a variety of foods, both wet and dry. They can be smeared with sticky peanut butter a dog has to lick out, filled with wet food that can be frozen and eat as it defrosts, or even kibble and plugged with a carrot. Creativity and hygiene are the only limits on what you can do with a Kong as a food puzzle, and we would encourage owners to experiment and find what works best for them and their dogs.

Finally, Kongs should not be underestimated as a chew toy that can provide comfort to anxious dogs. Many dogs find chewing both relaxing and deeply comforting, especially if they are orally fixated. Giving a dog prone to separation anxiety access to a Kong and item of clothing carrying your scent when leaving it alone can often alleviate its stress, or build positive associations with a crate during initial crate training.

In the crowded marketplace of dog toys, Kongs stand out for a reason. They are, quite simply, one of the best options available. We highly recommend them for all dogs, and would love to hear about the creative ways you have used them. For more information, please visit Kong’s website (https://www.kongcompany.com/) or DM us on any of our social media accounts.