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Fun Games for Dogs: Activities to Keep Your Best Friend Busy

Last Updated on May 14, 2023

Dogs are amazing creatures. They can be a great friend and companion, but they also have their own unique personalities. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best games for dogs that will keep them entertained and engaged.

5 fun games for dogs

1: Hide-and-seek with dogs

black white and brown short coated dog on green grass

Are you ready for a game of hide-and-seek with your pooch? Playing hide-and-seek with your dog can be a fun and enjoyable way to bond with your pup. This game can help build trust and strengthen the bond between you and your pup. It also provides a great opportunity for mental and physical exercise for your pet.

To get started, find a good hiding spot for yourself. Give your dog a few clues, such as a toy or treat, to encourage them to search for you. Once your pup finds you, be sure to reward them with lots of praise and affection. Not only will this help reinforce the activity, but it will also show your pup that they did a great job.

Playing hide-and-seek is a fun way to exercise both mentally and physically with your dog and create a strong bond between the two of you. So grab a toy and let the games begin!

2: Tug-of-war with dogs

Tug-of-war with your pup is a great way to bond and have fun! Not only is it an enjoyable activity, but it also helps exercise your pup’s mind and body. The game is easy to learn, and no special equipment is needed.

All you need is an old towel or rope to get started. It’s important to remember that the goal of the game is to have fun, not to see who can pull the hardest. You should also keep your pup’s size in mind when playing. Smaller dogs should not be pulled too hard, while larger dogs might need a bit more force.

When playing tug-of-war, make sure to supervise your pup to ensure they are safe and having a good time. If you want to increase the difficulty of the game, you can hide treats around the rope or towel and have your pup search for them.

Tug-of-war is an easy and enjoyable game for both you and your pup, so grab a rope and get ready for some fun!

3: Ball throwing with dogs

brown short coated dog on brown soil during daytime

Playing fetch with your pup is one of the most enjoyable experiences for both you and your pet. Throwing a ball provides an opportunity for your dog to get physical exercise and mental stimulation. Not to mention the fun you both will have!

To ensure your pup has a safe and enjoyable game of ball throwing, start by selecting the right size ball. If your pup is a smaller breed, look for a ball that is smaller in size so they can easily carry it. Make sure it is made of a durable material so that it doesn’t disintegrate in your pup’s mouth.

Once you have the right ball, find an open space where your pup can run without obstacles or potential dangers. Start by throwing the ball a short distance away from you and after your pup retrieves the ball, reward them with plenty of praise and affection. As your pup becomes comfortable playing fetch, you can begin to increase the distance of throws.

Be sure to keep an eye on your pup at all times to make sure they are not over-exerting themselves. Ball throwing with dogs is an excellent activity to engage in year-round and will provide plenty of fun for both you and your pup!

4: Frisbee throwing with dogs

black and brown dog catching yellow flying disc

Playing frisbee with your pup is one of the most fun activities you can do together. Not only is it great exercise for both of you, but it’s also an opportunity to bond and strengthen your relationship.

The key to success with frisbee throwing is to start small and build up gradually. Start by getting your dog accustomed to the frisbee by letting him sniff and investigate it. Then, try rolling the frisbee on the ground, so your pup can get used to chasing after it. The next step is to lightly toss the frisbee a few feet away and have your pup bring it back to you.

As they get more comfortable, you can increase the distance and the height of your throws. Don’t forget to reward your pup with treats and lots of verbal praise when they catch the frisbee! With patience and practice, you and your pup will be pros at frisbee throwing in no time. So grab a frisbee and get ready for some fun times with your furry best friend!

5: Jumping rope with your dog

adultgolden retriever

Jump roping with your dog is an excellent way to bond and have fun with your pup! It’s an easy and enjoyable activity that can be done both indoors and outdoors, so no matter the weather, you can always stay active with your pup. Not only is it a great way to spend quality time together, but it’s also a great form of exercise for both of you

Your pup will love chasing after the rope and jumping over it, and you’ll both reap the benefits of physical activity. Plus, jumping rope with your dog is a great way to teach them basic commands such as “jump” and “stop”.

You can even add some fun tricks into the mix, such as getting your pup to jump through the rope or over obstacles. With just a few items, you can get started on this awesome activity with your pup today. So grab a rope and some treats and have a blast!

Below is a good video for learning how to teach your dog to jump rope.

6: Water games with dogs

short-coated tan dog on seashore

Water games are a great way to bond with your pup and keep them entertained for hours! Dogs love splashing around in the water, so why not make it into a game? There are so many ways to have fun with your pup in the water.

You can start off by throwing a floating toy for your pup to fetch—they love the challenge of chasing it down! You can also play tug-of-war with a floating toy or even use a water hose to make a stream of water for them to jump over. Additionally, you can make an obstacle course in the pool or lake with floating objects like buoys and noodles.

Not only will your pup have fun, but they’ll also get some great exercise! Playing water games with your pup is an amazing way to strengthen your bond and bring out their inner puppy. So grab a toy and get ready for some splashing fun!

7. Simon Says With dogs

white and black American pit bull terrier at daytime825-2

Playing Simon Says with your dog can be a fun and rewarding experience for both of you. Not only does it give your pup a chance to bond with you, but it also helps them develop important skills like listening and following instructions.

To get started, all you need is a few treats, your dog’s favorite toy, and some patience! Start by saying “Simon says sit” and reward your pup when they obey. As they get used to the game, you can add more commands like “Simon says fetch“, or “Simon says down”.

Having your pup practice the game regularly will help them remember the commands and make the experience even more enjoyable. You’ll soon be surprised by their ability to follow instructions and perform tricks with enthusiasm. So why not give it a try? Your dog will thank you for it!

8: Running And Chasing Games With dogs

shallow focus photography of white shih tzu puppy running on the grass

Running and chasing games are a great way to have fun with your dog and get the whole family involved. Whether you have a small pup or a large breed, these games can be tailored to fit any size of dog. Not only are they a fun way to bond with your pup, but they also provide great physical activity for both you and your canine companion.

Start by picking a game that’s easy for your dog to learn, such as fetch or tug-of-war. Once your pup has mastered the basics, try incorporating more challenging games like hide and seek or tag. When playing these running and chasing games, it’s important to keep your pup’s safety in mind. Make sure there is enough space for them to move around safely, and avoid areas with sharp objects or potential hazards.

You can also use treats or toys as rewards to help keep their attention and make the game even more enjoyable. Playing these active games with your pup is not only fun but provides great exercise and mental stimulation, allowing you both to bond over some quality time together.

9. Sledding With Dogs
brown and white Siberian huskies on snowy field

Sledding with dogs is an exhilarating way to enjoy the winter season! Whether you’re an experienced musher or just looking for a fun activity to do with your pup, sledding can be a great way to get some exercise and make lasting memories.

To get started, all you need is a sled and a team of willing canines. Before you hit the snow, make sure you take the time to properly train your team. You’ll need to teach them commands that will help you control their speed, direction, and stopping. Once you’ve got that down, it’s time to hit the slopes!

Your dogs will love the thrill of running across the snow, and you’ll get an adrenaline rush as you ride along. Just remember to bundle up in warm clothes and keep an eye on the conditions to make sure you’re safe. And don’t forget to bring plenty of snacks and water for your furry companions!

With a bit of preparation and caution, sledding with your dogs can be an incredibly rewarding experience. So grab your sled and harness, and go have some fun in the snow!

10. Dog Obstacle Courses

Dog obstacle courses are a great way to give your pup the physical and mental stimulation they need! Not only do these courses provide a fun way for your dog to work out, but they also help teach good behaviors and strengthen the bond between you and your pup. Plus, it’s something you can do together and have a blast!

Setting up an obstacle course for your dog is easy, and you don’t need any special supplies. You can use everyday items such as furniture, chairs, cones, and bins to create an amazing course. Your pup will learn to jump over things, go through tunnels, weave around objects, and follow commands along the way. You can even create your own custom course to fit your dog’s needs.

It’s important to start with simple tasks and gradually increase the difficulty as your pup learns each obstacle. With patience, practice, and lots of treats, you can both have a ton of fun while honing in on your pup’s agility skills. Dog obstacle courses are an awesome way to give your furry friend some extra physical and mental exercise—so why not give it a try today?

11. Scent Games

dog standing on pavement

Scent games are a great way to stimulate your pup’s sense of smell and use their intelligence. Hide treats around the house and have your pup use their nose to find them.

12. Puzzle Games With Dogs

dog with puzzle game

Puzzle games with dogs are a great way to provide your pup with some fun and mental stimulation. Puzzle games are beneficial for dogs of all ages and sizes, as they encourage problem-solving skills and engage their minds. Plus, they can help reduce boredom and keep them from developing destructive behaviors.

From treat dispensers to hide-and-seek mazes, there are endless puzzle games you can play with your furry friend. All you need is a little creativity and patience. Start by teaching your pup the basics of each game, like how to move the pieces or retrieve treats. Then, increase the difficulty as you go.

Your pup will love the challenge and you’ll love seeing their progress. So why not give it a try? Puzzle games with dogs are sure to bring lots of laughter and joy into your home!

 

Regardless of the game, below are 6 steps you should follow for playing a game with a dog:

6 Steps For Any Game Playing With A Dog

Step 1: Choose an Activity

Step 2: Make Sure the Activity is Appropriate for Your Dog’s Skill Level

Step 3: Ensure That Your Dog Has Access to the Necessary Equipment/Supplies

Step 4: Establish a Cue or Signal to Let Your Dog Know When it’s Time to Start Playing

Step 5: Provide Positive Reinforcement During the Game or Activity

Step 6: End the Game on a Positive Note

Conclusion

Playing games with your pup is a fantastic way to bond and have fun together! There are endless games to choose from that provide mental stimulation, physical activity, and most importantly, lots of joy! From fetch to tug-of-war, to hide-and-seek and even obstacle courses, there are so many ways to keep your pup entertained.

Not only do these games provide physical and mental benefits, they also help strengthen the bond between you and your pup. Whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors, these games are sure to bring you and your pup closer together. So why not give them a try and see what kind of fun you can have!

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