You’re here because you want the best for your dog - mentally, physically, and emotionally.
Maybe you’ve tried enrichment activities you’ve seen online, but they didn’t work the way you hoped.
Or perhaps you’ve noticed behaviors, energy levels, or even physical issues that don’t feel quite right.
You want to build a deeper connection, truly understand your dog, and help them thrive.
Enrichment That Fits Your Dog, Not the Other Way Around
Every dog is unique, and so are their needs. Many generic enrichment ideas miss the mark, leaving dogs frustrated, overaroused, or even at risk of physical harm. That’s where Puzzle Dog comes in.
Through careful observation of your dog’s body language and behaviour, I’ll help you decode what they’re really saying. Using my expertise in Hersenwerk, Dynamic Dog assessments, and ACE FreeWork, I’ll guide you in designing enrichment activities that bring out the best in your dog.
Whether we’re exploring the Sensory Room - a unique experience designed to engage your dog’s senses - or finding the perfect puzzle activity, my focus is always on creating calmness, connection, and joy.
Puzzle Dog isn’t about quick fixes or one-size-fits-all solutions. We are about giving your dog the tools to thrive in every aspect of their life while helping you build a bond like never before.
The Puzzle Dog team
Puzzle Dog is a one-woman operation run by Tessa Savelkoel. Until the end of 2024, Tessa’s dog, #PuzzlePuck, was her trusted sidekick, puzzle tester, and demonstrator. Now retired, Puck enjoys her puzzle sessions in well-deserved peace, away from the spotlight.
“Our passion for Hersenwerk and puzzles is what started it all.”
At Puzzle Dog, our mission is clear: to help every dog live a happy, pain-free, comfortable, enriched, and fun life - and to ensure their humans enjoy the journey too. That’s why we’re committed to a 100% pain- and aversive-free approach.
Fun FAQ
How are you different from a dog trainer?
I’m not a dog trainer - I’m your go-to expert for understanding your dog’s mental and physical health. While trainers focus on behaviour, I focus on enrichment, observation, and connection. Think of me as your guide to a happier, healthier dog.
What if I’ve tried enrichment activities and my dog didn’t like them?
That’s actually very common! Many popular enrichment ideas aren’t tailored to individual dogs. I’ll help you discover what your dog truly enjoys, whether it’s sniffing, puzzles, or something completely unique to them.
Can my dog still benefit from enrichment if they have a physical condition?
Absolutely. Dogs with physical challenges often benefit the most from customized activities. Together, we’ll create safe, supportive enrichment tailored to their specific needs.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
I love seeing the moment when it all clicks - the dog is calm, focused, and happy, and the owner starts to truly understand their dog. It’s like magic!
What do clients say about working with you?
Clients often tell me I notice things they’d never spot, like subtle changes in their dog’s posture or behaviour. They also value my kind, constructive feedback and how I empower them to feel more connected to their dog.
If you were a dog, what kind of dog would you be?
I’d be a mixed breed, just like my dog Puck! We’re both independent, love a challenge, and enjoy a bit of goofiness. We’re social but need alone time, too.
Thank you for a very calm and relaxing session with you and Walter.
You are a very observant lady! I really enjoyed the experience and thank you so much for the DIY Sensory Room session! Very kind and generous of you!
I most definitely will share my positive experience at your sensory room session and wish you nothing but the best in your great work with animals!
I am a Certified Dog Trainer and finding Tessa and the Puzzle Dog courses has changed the way I train.
She has helped me to expand on my basic knowledge of Enrichment to where I am incorporating it into my daily training plans.
Thank you for all your years of inspiration.
The course was a wonderful way to spend time with my little senior dog Harriet. Harriet is 18 and blind, but it didn't stop her from puzzling and moving her body.
This class added so much to her life. (Harriet is no longer with us, RIP Harriet).
Keep on learning!
Being good in what we do and becoming better all the time: that's our goal for Puzzle Dog. After a career as a quality manager, facility manager and consultant in several branches I started 'studying dogs' in 2014 after our first move abroad - from the Netherlands to Norway.
From advanced certifications to ongoing workshops, learning is a core part of who we are.
- Here are just a few of my qualifications:
- Tutor for Hersenwerk for Dogs (2018-2024)
- Dynamic Dog Practitioner (2022)
- ACE FreeWork (2021)
- And more specialized workshops and certifications that shape our approach.
Puzzle Dog in the media
Puzzle Dog has been in the media a couple of times!
Puzzle Dog in the episode of NSK9 (recorded in Dec 2020).
The episode of A Dog's Life: our part starts at 11.05. Recorded Aug 2023 and aired March 24th on Eastlink TV
Podcast with the Soul Touched by Dogs podcast. (can also be found on Spotify and other platforms)
What's next?
Imagine your dog calmly solving puzzles, their tail wagging in joy, as they engage in activities designed just for them. Picture yourself confidently understanding their needs and communication, building a bond like never before.
Ready to get started? Book a Sensory Room session or start one of our courses today!
