It’s good to give puppies little challenges to figure out. This can promote problem solving, build their confidence and make them more adaptable to little stressors and problems later in life. Of course, we always want to make the challenge simple enough that the puppy isn’t frustrated and can’t figure things out. And having that special reward at the end is the “prize”.
I used an exercise pen and did each puppy individually. The puppy was placed in the pen and a small bowl of smelly, canned food on the outside to entice them. I made sure they could see and smell the bowl through the wire and then set it just at the end of the opening. Then waited to see (and of course, I encouraged them) as they figured out the opening and the yummy treat waiting for them.
The only pup who didn’t complete the “puzzle”was Sparkler. He just said, “no, I’m going to just sit here, thanks. I’m not interested in your silly game”. No worries, we’ll try it again when he’s more interested in the prize which should motivate him to at least give it a try.
❤️