Crate rest menu for dogs: how to play

A rota of still, quiet activities for dogs on crate rest after surgery or injury: sniffing, licking and gentle brain games.

You'll need

Ask your vet exactly what movement is allowed. Use your dog's daily food for most of these.

Lick mat or food toy inside the crate, at breakfast.
Scent jars: hold small jars or cloths with different smells near the crate door. Let your dog sniff each.
Which hand: treat in one fist, your dog sniffs the right hand, without standing up.
Name game and chin rest: tiny, still training sessions.
Window time: if allowed, carry or walk on lead to a spot where they can watch the world.
Swap activities daily so each one stays new.

Make it easier: Short sessions of 1 to 2 minutes.
Make it harder: Teach a new still trick, like nose to your hand or chin rest.

Relaxed, focused sniffing and licking, then sleep.

Restlessness, spinning, whining or licking the wound. Ask your vet about calming help.

Your vet's instructions come first. Ask before any activity that needs standing or turning.
Keep frozen items away from incisions.
Keep the cone on if your vet says so; pick toys that work with a cone.

Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.

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