Boredom Busting with a Kong

My dogs are typical collies, in that if they aren't running about like idiots or using their brains they are bored and causing chaos, so a big part of living with them so far has been finding ways that mean I can get on with my job (I work from home) with minimal distractions. Keeping them well exercised is a big part of this, but so is giving them things to do.

When I brought Daisy home, I needed to give her something to do while I wasn't occupying her myself. We tried a number of solutions, but one of the early ones which has proven to be an ongoing winner was the Kong. We started off with the Puppy Kong, which is a little softer for baby teeth and weaker jaws, and once she had destroyed that then onto the big dog version. She's still going strong on this one - and I've had it for about 6 months now. It's definitely showing the tooth marks, but it's bearing up remarkably well, particularly considering I often use cheese as a kind of "glue" to make it harder to get the stuffing out. So chuck in some biscuits, seal each end with a piece of cheese and microwave for 30sec or so.

I have to admit, my Kong filling is pretty unimaginative compared to some. You can get Kong branded filling (see this stuff, or these biscuits ), which while convenient seem a bit expensive - though I have tried out the liver ones and they do block up the hole in the Kong nicely, and seem something the dogs will work to get out, so perhaps worth it if you're pushed for time.

Alternatively, there are many fabulous recipes out there. Have a look at Kong's own pinterest board on the subject, or a similar board by someone else. I have also taken to using this very comprehensive list of good stuff to put in a Kong when I want to give them a treat.

Baby Daisy working on her puppy Kong

Slightly older Daisy nomming an adult Kong

Ps while looking for something else entirely on Amazon, I also came across a different manufacturer of Kong stuffer. Arden Grange apparently also make Kong paste (e.g. Arden Grange Liver Paste). I'm going to give this a go, as not only do Arden Grange have a very good reputation for producing high-quality food, but they also sponsor Mary Ray - one of the stalwarts of the dog obedience world.