Looking for training tips that are actually fun to implement? Try these five games for dogs! When it comes to having fun dogs are much like people. They like to play, whether it’s by themselves, with other dogs or with their favorite humans. Playing with your dog isn’t just a great way to bond together, it’s actually an integral part of their training. Think about it, you learn more when you’re having fun than when someone is just barking orders at you, right? Keep reading, to learn more about several exciting games for dogs. Both you and your canine will be glad you did!
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5 Fun Games for Dogs
Spinning Bottle Game
While this game requires a bit of work to build, the joy it ends up bringing to your dog is well worth the effort. First, construct a wooden frame with holes on the sides to run a dowel through. Then, drill holes in the sides of plastic bottles and run the dowel through each of them. Finally, slide the dowel into the frame so that the bottles are hanging in the middle. Fill the bottles with dog food.
When your dog spins the bottles with his paw, food will automatically fall out onto the bottom of the frame. This is a game that has the potential to keep dogs engaged for quite some time. Better yet, they can play it on their own without requiring assistance.
Frisbee
Playing catch with a frisbee is much like playing fetch with a ball or similar toy. Since a frisbee stays airborne for longer periods of time, your dog will probably find it easier to catch or chasing after, once you throw it. Once he’s mastered the basics, check out this video to help him become a frisbee superstar!
Cup Game
Place three opaque cups face-down in a line on the floor, in front of your dog. Next, put a treat under one of the cups. Mix them up a bit and see if your dog can find the treat. Once your dog gets used to the game, you can add more cups to make it a bit more challenging.
Muffin Tin Treat Game
For this mental stimulation game, you’ll need a muffin tin and a dozen tennis balls. Put a treat in three to five of the cups, then cover every cup with a tennis ball. Your dog will have to move the tennis balls to look for the treats.
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Just a quick word of caution. Never let your dogs play with a tennis ball unsupervised, or use it as a chew toy. If they chew on a tennis ball, it could pop open in their throat and cut off their air supply. Make sure you dog stays focused on finding the treats rather than the tennis balls themselves.
Laundry Basket Ball
Get an empty laundry basket and encourage your dog to drop a ball into the basket. It may take him time to get the hang of the game. But once he does, you can throw the ball and have him drop it into the basket. For a twist, which will also help him learn to clean up after himself, scatter your dog’s toys throughout the house and then have him bring them to the basket. You might even get him to help do the laundry!
There are so many games for dogs to choose from. The next time your favorite pooch seems to be bored, why not try one of these activities? Chances are, you’ll both enjoy the experience.
