Got a pup who hates thunderstorms or freaks out when you leave the house? We’ve been there. In this post, we’re sharing our favorite ways to calm anxious dogs—including the enrichment toys that helped our own pups, Fish and Boone, feel safe, soothed, and a little more at peace.
Got a pup who panics during thunderstorms? Whines the second you leave the house? Acts a little “off” when routines shift? You’re definitely not alone. Just like us, dogs can get anxious, overwhelmed, or plain bored—and when they do, they usually let us know in some very… obvious ways (hello, chewed-up shoes).
The good news? There are easy, healthy ways to help them chill out—and enrichment toys are one of our go-tos.
At Fish + Boone, we’ve learned this firsthand.
Our golden retriever, Fish, used to tremble during thunderstorms. The moment the clouds rolled in, he’d tuck himself under the bed or bury his face into our laps. We tried music, snuggles, even storm shirts. But what helped most was distraction—and one of his go-to comforts was having a soft toy nearby that he could hold onto until it passed.
Boone, our sweet and sassy dachshund mix, has always been more of the separation anxiety type. When he and Fish were apart, Boone would pace, whine, and seek out comfort in the coziest corner with his favorite toy. That need for soothing and familiarity is something we’ve built into every product we carry.
Why Enrichment Toys Work
Enrichment toys aren’t just for fun—they serve a real purpose:
- Mental stimulation helps tire out the brain in the best way
- Engagement keeps them focused on a healthy task (instead of mischief!)
- Self-soothing behaviors are encouraged in a safe, constructive form
- Independence builds as they learn to comfort themselves when you're not around
They’re especially helpful during times of stress, boredom, crate rest, or changes in routine (like a new baby, house guests, or moving).
Meet Our Enrichment Toy Collection
Each toy we carry is thoughtfully selected for its unique ability to entertain, comfort, and calm pups of all sizes and personalities. And yep, there’s a little personal meaning behind each one:
Flying Fish — A tribute to our beloved golden, Fish. The Flying Fish is a 2-in-1 burrow and snuffle toy made for curious noses and playful paws.
Cabbage Pop — A viral favorite! The Cabbage Pop Enrichment Dog Toy combines all the best parts of balls, burrow toys, and snuffle games into one playful bundle.
Cassette Tape — A nod to all the 90s-loving pet parents. This retro-inspired toy features a hidden snuffle pocket and a clever ribbon challenge to keep dogs entertained and mentally sharp
Oyster Pop — Our southern staple, especially in the fall. Part squeaky ball, part crinkly shell, this toy is packed with multiple textures to keep your pup's tail wagging.
Butternut Silent Squeaker Toy — No annoying squeaks for you, but deeply satisfying for your pup. A favorite for late-night play or anxious moments.
Calm Starts With Comfort
Whether your dog is a thunderstorm-hater like Fish or a sensitive soul like Boone, enrichment toys give them a way to cope, explore, and feel at ease. They're not a fix-all—but they’re a game-changer in managing stress and making your home a more peaceful place.
Explore our collection and find the one that speaks to your pup’s personality (or try them all—we won’t judge).
Because a calmer pup means a calmer home.
XO, Jaclyn
