Let Dogs Be Dogs: Supporting Natural Behaviours in Summer

Why Sniffing, Digging & Chewing Matter More Than You Think

We love our dogs dearly—but sometimes, their natural instincts don’t exactly align with our lifestyle. A freshly dug garden bed, a chewed-up shoe, or a nose buried in the grass for what feels like forever can all be frustrating. But here’s the truth: these are all normal, healthy canine behaviours.

When we support these behaviours in appropriate, constructive ways, we aren't just tolerating “doggy habits”—we're actively improving our dogs’ well-being.

Summer is the perfect season to embrace this mindset. With longer days, warmer weather, and more time outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities to encourage natural behaviours in ways that are fun, enriching, and safe.

What Are Natural Behaviours?

Dogs were bred to work, think, move, and problem-solve. Natural behaviours like sniffing, digging, chewing, stalking, and chasing aren't "naughty"—they're instinctual.

Every dog expresses them to some degree, and denying these outlets can lead to frustration, anxiety, and unwanted behaviour.

Think of enrichment as giving your dog a job—something that fulfils their inner drive and gives them a sense of purpose. And in the summer, your “enrichment toolkit” expands with the great outdoors!

Summer Enrichment Ideas for Natural Canine Instincts

🐾 Sniffari Walks

Let your dog set the pace and explore the world with their nose. These “sniffari” walks are mentally stimulating and deeply satisfying. Sniffing lowers a dog’s heart rate, builds confidence, and is far more enriching than a rushed power walk.

Try This: Take your dog to a new park or trail and give them time to explore. Use a longer lead (5-10 metres) and let them guide the route—just follow their nose!

🐾 Digging Pits

Rather than trying to eliminate digging altogether, give your dog a designated space to dig safely. Use a shallow sandbox, an old planter box, or even a corner of your garden. Bury toys or treats for extra excitement.

Tip: Make this area rewarding by hiding frozen chews or puzzle toys—your dog will learn that “digging here = fun,” which can reduce digging elsewhere.

🐾 Chew Time in the Shade

Chewing is a natural stress-reliever and a great way for dogs to unwind. Provide safe, long-lasting chews or toys outdoors in the shade. This is particularly helpful on hot days when high-energy play isn’t suitable.

Options to Try:

• Frozen Kongs filled with dog-safe ingredients

• Carrots, yak chews, or air-dried natural chews

• Durable rubber chew toys

  
  

🐾 Scent Games & Foraging

Hiding treats around the garden or in snuffle mats turns mealtime into an engaging activity. Dogs love using their nose, and scent work is one of the easiest (and most tiring!) ways to enrich their mind.

Game Idea: Scatter a handful of treats or kibble in the grass and let your dog hunt them down. You can also use scent-based puzzle toys or hide items under flower pots.

Why It Matters

Providing natural outlets helps:

• Prevent destructive behaviours

• Reduce boredom and frustration

• Support mental and physical health

• Improve calmness and relaxation at home

When dogs don’t get to express their instincts, they often find less ideal ways to cope—like barking excessively, chewing furniture, or becoming over-reactive on walks.

Breed Matters, Too

Different breeds have different needs. Terriers love to dig, scent hounds love to sniff, and working breeds (like Border Collies or Shepherds) love to chase and control movement. A Labrador may be happiest carrying things or retrieving.

Tip: Learn what your dog was originally bred for. This gives insight into the types of activities that will truly satisfy them.

Final Thoughts: Let Dogs Be Dogs

It’s easy to get caught up in manners, obedience, and keeping things neat—but your dog’s joy often lies in the “messier” side of life: sniffing, digging, chewing, rolling in the grass, and experiencing the world with all their senses.

Supporting these behaviours in safe, structured ways means a happier, healthier dog—and a stronger bond between you. So this summer, instead of fighting those instincts, lean into them. Let dogs be dogs. 🐾

Need help tailoring enrichment to your dog’s needs? Ask about my One-to-One Sessions, Solo Training Walks, or Adventure Walks—designed to tap into what your dog naturally loves most.