All protocols
Enrichment
First Scent Searches
Short, voluntary searches where your dog uses their nose to find permitted food in a small, controlled setup.
What it is
Short, voluntary searches where your dog uses their nose to find permitted food in a small, controlled setup.
Why we created it
A repeatable introduction to enrichment that doesn’t rely on high-impact activity.
Goal
Comfortable, willing participation — not ever-harder hides.
Before you begin
You’ll need
- A quiet area you control.
- A few safe, open containers.
- Familiar permitted food taken from today’s allowance.
- Other dogs separated during the game.
What you’ll do
Your first session
- Put a small amount of food in an open container where it is easy to see and reach.
- Let your dog investigate without steering or repeating cues.
- Allow pauses, or walking away — that is fine.
- After a success, repeat the same easy version rather than making it harder.
Things to notice
- Whether your dog searches willingly.
- How much help they need.
- Any signs of frustration.
When to stop or get help
- Distress, guarding food or containers, eating something unsafe, or losing control of the setup.
- Don’t use essential oils or target odours, hides your dog can’t reach, or any pressure to take part.
- Any feeding or activity instructions from your veterinarian still apply.
About this guide
This guide is not an anxiety treatment, doesn’t promise calmness and doesn’t replace exercise.
Low-intensity guide suitable for most healthy dogs.
Adapted into plain language from Nara’s prepared protocol material. It is general information, not a diagnosis or veterinary prescription, and it doesn’t report trial results.