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You just came back from your daily walk with your pet, sat down with a cup of coffee or tea, and your dog appears in front of you with his tail wagging, like he is asking, "What is next?"
For many dogs, physical exercise is only a small part of their daily activities. They need mental stimulation just as much as physical activity. Dogs need to use their brains, and when they do not, boredom kicks in. That can result in destructive behavior like digging, chewing, barking, and everything in between.
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Springland Freeze-Your-Own Dog Treat Bowl, $16.49 at Target
More and more pet parents understand the benefits of mental enrichment for their dogs' daily routines. Target recently added the perfect mental stimulation toy: the Springland Freeze-Your-Own Dog Treat Bowl.
All you need is three steps. Fill the bowl, freeze it, and then serve it to your pup and watch as he plays and tries to get his treats.
Measuring 3.5 by six inches, the bowl is compact enough to store flat in any freezer overnight. Made with flexible silicone, it helps release the frozen treats cleanly.
Let your imagination run free. You can freeze whatever you like, or whatever your dog loves. Water, broth, peanut butter and banana, wet food, plain fruits, combinations of Greek yogurt and fruits. Whatever you have in the fridge. You can make endless combinations with everyday ingredients. Remember to vary the mix to keep sessions unpredictable and fun for your pup.
Related: This Wobbly Kong Toy Dispenses Treats and Has Dogs Completely Losing Their Minds
Pet Parents Love It
The Springland bowl only recently arrived at Target, but pet parents quickly found it, and they love it — or better said, their dogs love it.
"Love the product. My dog loves cold treats, perfect!" wrote one reviewer on Target.com. Another added, "Super innovative product that keeps my dog busy for over an hour! I also have added some fruit into the bowl prior to freezing it. My dog really likes it."
For the many happy shoppers, it's evident the bowl gives dogs a simple activity that keeps them engaged while providing mental stimulation.
Why Mental Stimulation Matters
Many dogs were bred to solve problems, track scents, retrieve game or work alongside people for hours each day. Even companion breeds enjoy having a job to do.
The Springland bowl gives your dog a job. The best part? It plays on one of your dog's favorite instincts. Licking is a calming activity for dogs that reduces stress. It also engages your dog's brain in ways that eating from a regular bowl doesn't, reducing boredom, encouraging calm behavior, and providing an outlet for your dog's natural instincts.
Frozen snacks are also perfect for hot days, but you can use them year-round. Enrichment toys help dogs settle during busy workdays or when it is raining outside. You can also use them to keep your dog calm when you have guests visiting.
Related: This Clever Dog Bowl Trick Could Become Every Pet Parent's Favorite Summer DIY
