Indoor Games for Your Pet!

Does your dog need to spend time perfecting his or her “sit, stay” command? Then hide and seek is a great indoor game for the two of you! Start off by doing a typical “sit, stay” and reward your pup with a treat. Gradually move farther and farther away calling “come” when ready. Repeat until you’re completely hidden in a more challenging spot. Keep yelling the “come” command until they find you – then reward their efforts with another treat! This not only helps their basic obedience it grows their search and rescue potential.

What’s more fun than multitasking? This fun game not only creates an opportunity for you and your pet to spend time together, it teaches your doggo to put away their toys! Begin with a toy near the dog’s toy box or basket. Give it to your pet to hold in its mouth, then have him “drop it” ove r the space (use “drop it” as a command in a firm but friendly voice). Repeat this over and over while moving farther away from the box. After each successful “drop it” be sure to praise or reward your pet. The more practice you put into this game, the sooner Fido will be cleaning up his toys!

Depending on how much time and space you may have at your home, an obstacle course can be as simple or complex as you desire. You can use toilet paper rolls in a door frame to build rows, having your pup jump over each row one at a time – every time they clear the stack add another. You can also use cardboard boxes to create tunnels to have them run through, giving them a treat at the end of each run. Looking to build agility? Have your pet run across plywood or sturdy cushion that’s resting on books to give it height. Once your dog is comfy with each installment of your obstacle course, put them all together and have your dog try them one after another. This builds your dog’s physical and mental skills and is a whole lot of fun!

A treasure hunt is a great game for dogs, particularly small breeds. Collect a few breathable containers from around the house (think paper cups with holes or boxes). Then place a treat inside one of the items and encourage your dog to start sniffing around. Once they find the treat be sure to praise them verbally and show them affection!

It’s A Dog’s World can give you and your pet the tools you both need to be successful in basic obedience and beyond. Building this strong foundation will create opportunities for better quality and play time. We’re fully operational and can’t wait to explore ways to train or strengthen your pet’s skills! Visit ItsADogsWorld.biz for more information on a free consultation.