Little Extras, Big Benefits: The Power of Enrichment for Dogs
When you think of doggy daycare, you probably imagine your pup romping around with friends, playing tug-of-war, or taking a well-earned nap in a cozy corner. But at The Bark Knoxville, we believe dogs need more than just social time—they need mental engagement, skill-building, and activities that tap into their natural instincts. That’s why we offer specialized 20-minute enrichment add-ons, all led by positive reinforcement dog trainers who understand how to support your dog’s emotional and behavioral wellness.
Each enrichment session is thoughtfully designed to be fun, safe, and educational, helping your dog become calmer, more focused, and more fulfilled. Here’s a breakdown of what we offer and how your pup benefits:
Agility for Fun – 20 mins – $30
This isn’t competitive agility—it’s play-based movement designed to build confidence and coordination. Our trainers use positive reinforcement to guide your dog through tunnels, jumps, and wobble boards, helping them:
- Develop body awareness and balance
- Learn to navigate challenges in a fear-free, rewarding way
- Build trust and engagement through teamwork
Dogs who enjoy agility often become more resilient and comfortable in new or stimulating environments.
Scent Training – 20 mins – $30
Dogs experience the world through their nose, and scent training taps into this deeply instinctual behavior. With the guidance of our trainers, dogs can:
- Use their brain in a natural, satisfying way
- Improve focus and problem-solving skills
- Lower stress through calming sniff-based tasks
This is especially great for high-energy or anxious dogs who need a mental outlet without physical overexertion.
Obedience & Manners Practice – 20 mins – $30
Practicing essential life skills like sit, stay, come, and leave it with a professional trainer helps dogs:
- Strengthen foundational cues in a real-world environment
- Reinforce polite behavior around distractions
- Build stronger communication with their humans at home
Whether your pup is new to training or just needs a refresher, this session supports consistent behavior both in and out of daycare.
Leash Walking Practice – 20 mins – $30
A structured walk led by one of our trainers focuses on loose-leash walking and engagement. Dogs learn to:
- Walk calmly beside a handler
- Respond to cues like “with me” or “wait”
- Build confidence walking at different paces and around distractions
This sets the stage for more enjoyable, stress-free walks with you outside of daycare.
Bully Stick Time – 20 mins – $12
Chewing is a natural and calming activity for dogs. With staff supervision, this enrichment session provides:
- A safe, satisfying outlet for chewing instincts
- Gentle dental benefits from consistent gnawing
- Endorphin release, which helps dogs feel relaxed and content
It’s a great way to help dogs decompress and reset during a busy daycare day.
Licki Mat Time – 20 mins – $7
Licking is another self-soothing behavior that helps dogs regulate their emotions. Our trainers offer carefully prepared licki mats with dog-safe spreads like peanut butter, helping dogs:
- Enjoy a slow, engaging activity
- Stay focused and calm
- Experience reduced anxiety through repetitive, comforting motion
This activity is perfect for dogs who need help winding down or transitioning to rest time.
Enrichment That Matters
At The Bark Knoxville, our enrichment add-ons aren’t just about keeping your dog busy—they’re intentional, trainer-led experiences rooted in behavioral science and canine well-being. Every 20-minute session is designed to meet your dog’s individual needs, whether it’s building confidence, practicing manners, or simply enjoying a calm moment with a favorite chew.
Select these enrichment activities when booking daycare or boarding in The Bark Knoxville app or ask our team which enrichment activities are the best fit for your dog’s personality and goals. With the guidance of our positive reinforcement trainers, your pup’s day at daycare becomes even more rewarding, enriching, and fun.