If you’re reading this, you probably have a dog. And if you have a dog, you’ve probably heard of Kong dog toys. More than just a chewable play thing, kong dog toys are a must-have for any Dog Owner. They engage your pup’s brain, strengthen their teeth and gums, and give them a fun experience. Best of all, they can transform every dog meal into multi-purpose enrichment exercises that improves their mind and body.
For those of you accustomed to serving your dog’s dinner in a bowl, a Kong-based meal may sound strange. After all, the prospect of cramming minced meat and veggies into a rubber tube doesn’t scream “appetising”. However, once they’ve tried it, your dog will likely thank you in their own special way. (Is it a lick? Is it a nose boop? Only you know!)
To get you started on your Kong dog toy dinner journey, we’ve prepared three simple serving suggestions. May your pupper savour every morsel!
No, not THOSE Kongs.
Which of the Kong dog toys is right for your dog’s dinner?
Choosing the right sized Kong is a crucial step when incorporating it into your doggo’s meal plan. Ideally, your furry friend should be able to seize the Kong in their mouth. If the Kong is too small for them, they’ll be able to fit the entire thing inside; if it’s too large, they won’t be able to fit their mouth around it at all. By finding the “Goldilocks Kong” (one that’s just right), you’ll ensure your pooch is able to enjoy dinner time without any hiccups.
Suggestion #1: The Au Naturel of Kong Dog Toys
The simplest Kong serving method, this approach is a great starting point for first-timers. Simply take your Mad Paws Dinner Bowl meals, scoop them into your Kong, and let your dog have at it. To curtail overeating, you’ll want to leave a slight food concave in the Kong’s opening. That way, your pup will still be able to reach their food, but will need to work for it. In doing so, they’ll slow their own rate of eating, which will aid their digestion.
Suggestion #2: The Kong Parfait
Does your pooch spill their Kong meals all over the floor? Do you like to add a sprinkling of premium kibble to their raw diets? Are they the kind of furbaby who embodies the phrase “variety is the spice of life”? If you answered “Yes” to any of these, the Kong Parfait is your answer.
For this approach, rather than filling their Kong with one meal type, cram it with alternating layers of wet food and kibble. (This is especially useful if you’re currently subscribed to Mad Paws Dinner Bowl’s “half-bowls” plan.) Once the Kong is full of checkered layers, seal the openings closed with peanut butter. This will:
a) stop the fillings from spilling across your home
b) add another flavour and texture profile to your dog’s dinner
c) give them yet another reason to be obsessed with Kong meals
Suggestion #3: The Frozen Kong
Like humans, some dogs are slow eaters. Give them the chance, and they’ll mull over a meal for hours. Should your pooch match this description, the Frozen Kong is the option for them.
For this approach, begin by preparing an “Au Naturel” Kong. However, instead of doing so moments before meal time, ready it the night before. Once it’s good to go, stick it in the freezer overnight. Come the next morning, your pup will have a frosty treat which will last them hours.
As an added bonus, the Frozen Kong gels well with crate training; by serving it to your furbaby in their crate, they’ll connote happy memories with the space. At the same time, the frozen texture will ensure that wet food doesn’t splash all over their bedding. It’s more fun for them, and less work for you!
To learn more about Kongs, visit their website!
