Fun and Easy Games to Play with Your Dog

Play is important for bonding and building a relationship with our dogs. Playing with our dog helps teach them that we are a source of fun!

We can also use play to reward behaviours we like and want to see more of.

Here are some fun and easy games you can play with your dog…

1. Hide and Seek

Hide from your dog, then call their name. When they find you, make a big fuss of them and play tug.

Start hiding in easy places, then make it trickier.

Play at home, then outdoors on walks.

This is great for building recall too!

2. Find the Toy

Hide a toy and then encourage your dog to find it.

Start by hiding it in very visible places so it is easy for your dog and make a big fuss when they find it.

Then start hiding it in more tricky places.

Once your dog has the hang of it you can try it in different places, such as your garden or the park.

3. DIY Agility

Agility equipment is expensive, but we can get creative and make our own agility course!

Teach your dog to go round trees in the park.

Use railings as weave poles.

Get your dog to jump over logs.

Be creative!

4. Scentwork

Hide a smelly treat and encourage your dog to find it.

Gradually make the hiding spots trickier.

How quickly can your dog find the treat?

5. Snuffle Box

Fill a big cardboard box or laundry basket with different objects. For example, bits of cardboard, plastic bottles, egg cartons, plant pots. Make sure these aren’t objects which can hurt your dog or which your dog might eat.

Hide treats and toys in the box too and encourage your dog to snuffle them out!

What are your favourite games to play with your dog?

References

Absolute Dogs: https://absolute-dogs.com/ditch-the-bowl/

American Kennel Club: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/great-indoor-games-to-play-with-your-dog/

Blue Cross: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/indoor-games-for-dogs