Why Dog Training and Enrichment Matter — For You and Your Dog

Written by Ashlie Adams

When most people think of dog training, they tend to picture one of two things. The basics: sit, stay, maybe a roll-over or shake paw. Or help with stopping lunging, barking, and walking on a lead without pulling. But training is so much more than this. It’s about teaching dogs how to thrive in our human world and teaching us, as guardians, how to meet their needs.

In many ways, training is like sending our dogs to school. And just like with children, a good teacher doesn’t just teach the student — they guide the parents, too. The same is true for dog training: the right trainer helps you as much as they help your pup.

My Journey With Training

I’ll be the first to tell you: I don’t call myself a trainer. I am not a trainer. But I’ve spent my entire life surrounded by animals, and training has been a constant part of my story.

Over the years, I’ve worked with more than 15 different trainers — each with their own style. Some focused on structure, some leaned on games, and others prioritized confidence building. Not every trainer was the right fit. And honestly? Sometimes I felt defeated when things didn’t work.

But here’s the lesson I want you to take away: it’s okay to try more than one trainer. It doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means you’re still searching for the right support for you and your dog.

Along the way, I’ve also fostered and rehabilitated more than 30 dogs. Many came to me with behavioral challenges like separation anxiety or reactivity, and through patience, enrichment, and guidance, I watched them grow into dogs ready for forever homes. Those experiences shaped everything I believe about canine behavior.

I’ve also read countless books on dog enrichment, training, and behavior — from Control Unleashed to Bark. Each gave me a new perspective and a new tool. Check out my list at the end of the blog!

And of course, my own dogs have been my greatest teachers. Each one different, each one reminding me that training is never one-size-fits-all.

Dog Training Is About Meeting Needs, Not Just Obedience

Here’s something many people don’t realize: most problem behaviors in dogs aren’t about disobedience — they’re about unmet needs.

When your dog chews the couch, barks endlessly, or digs up the yard, it’s not because they’re trying to be “bad.” It’s their way of saying:

“I need to chew.”
“I need to sniff and forage.”
“I need a safe outlet for my energy.”

Training and enrichment are about helping dogs meet those needs in healthy, structured ways. It’s less about “fixing bad behaviors” and more about creating opportunities for dogs to do what comes naturally — without destroying your shoes in the process.

Think about it this way: if a child was hungry, tired, or overstimulated, we’d expect a meltdown. Dogs are no different. Training and enrichment give us a communication system to understand each other better.

Why You Can’t Train Out Genetics (and What to Do Instead)

Another important truth: you can’t train out genetics.

Some dogs are bred with strong instincts, and no amount of obedience training will erase them. For example, I live with dogs who have a high prey drive. That shows up as chasing wildlife, pulling on leash, or locking onto movement.

I could try to suppress those instincts, but I don’t want to — because that’s part of who my dogs are. Instead, I create safe, structured ways for them to express their drives.

Here are a few examples of enrichment tools I use:

Flirt poles → let them chase and “catch” safely.
Herding balls → give them a “job” that satisfies pushing and chasing.
Lure courses → tap into the chase drive in a fun, controlled environment.

By honoring instincts instead of fighting them, I get calmer, happier dogs who feel understood. And I get to enjoy them for who they are, not who I wish they’d be.

Dog Enrichment: Mental Workouts & Calming Routines

We all know dogs need exercise. But here’s the truth: walks alone aren’t enough.

Dogs need mental stimulation just as much as physical workouts. That’s where enrichment activities and calming routines come in.

Two of my favorites?

Lick mats Spreading soft food across a lick mat encourages licking — a naturally soothing behavior. It slows your dog down, provides sensory input, and helps lower stress levels.
Teaching “Place” This simple training exercise gives your dog a safe spot (like a mat or bed) where they learn to relax on cue. It’s not just about obedience — it’s about teaching your dog how to settle their mind and body, even in a busy environment.

Both routines calm anxious minds, redirect destructive energy, and build confidence. And the best part? They’re simple enough for every dog guardian to try at home.

Why I Created Canine Brain Games

All of these experiences — my dogs, my fosters, the trainers I’ve worked with, the books I’ve read — have led me here.

I realized that most behavior challenges come from the same root cause: unmet needs. And while training is essential, not every guardian has the time, tools, or knowledge to put it into practice consistently. That’s where enrichment comes in.

That’s why I created Canine Brain Games.

Our subscription boxes are filled with toys and activities that match different playstyles — chewers, chasers, cuddlers, and foragers.
Our digital Barkive gives you step-by-step guides, training tips, and DIY enrichment activities so you always know how to use what’s inside the box.

It’s everything I wish I had 20 years ago when I was first learning with my dog Jax.

Training Is a Journey

Here’s the most important takeaway: training is a journey, not a destination.

It’s okay if your dog doesn’t learn everything in a week.

It’s okay if you try a trainer and it’s not the right fit.

It’s okay if you feel frustrated sometimes.

What matters is showing up, being willing to learn alongside your dog, and remembering that every small step forward is a win.

And if you ever feel stuck, enrichment is a powerful place to start.

Because play isn’t just fun — it’s how we help our dogs thrive.

Ready to make training and enrichment easier?

Explore our Dog Enrichment Box Subscription and unlock our digital Canine Brain Games Barkive today. Together, they give you the tools to meet your dog’s needs and strengthen the bond you share.