I know it sounds weird to teach your dog to clean up after themselves, but it’s actually a lot of fun. Start to walk back towards the spot you dropped the item encouraging your dog to “find it” If your dog needs help, subtly kick or point to the item and make a fuss of your dog when they find it. This is a great confidence building activity and one that is brilliant for building trust as you work as a team.

Her dog was invited to take one treat, and she then marked that section for her dog, before removing a treat to one side and making her mark.If your dog doesn’t have adequate stimulation from both physical and mental activity they will become bored. There are many great guides you can work through to teach your dog tasks that can help you and them. Visiting hospitals and senior centers – This is not an option for all dogs but if your dog has good manners, is well socialized, and listens to you it could be a great way to brighten people’s days and bring enrichment to your dog’s world. If this gets too easy, crank it up a level by increasing the number of cups or by moving the cups about and switching their positions once the treat has been placed underneath. Whether you own a cerebral hound or a terrier that just wants to be in constant motion, there's a range of games to suit any natural preference.

For puppies, keep the “prey” on the ground, for seniors or pets with injuries/arthritis please be mindful of their physical limitations. After a few repetitions, whenever your dog looks at you and starts to move towards you, add in your chosen verbal cue (come, here, etc.Just as toys can teach toddlers eye-hand coordination, they can teach dogs eye-paw (or eye-mouth) coordination. This includes behaviors such as chasing their tails, pacing, or excessive grooming, licking and even chewing themselves. If you tell your dog to go to his spot while you’re making dinner enough times it will become a habit. Whilst you may not be able to get outside to exercise your dog sufficiently during this period, there’s lots that you can do inside, and you’ll be surprised how much mentally taxing games will tire your dog out.

To take this game to a new level you can teach your dog to find a particular scent similar to how drug dogs are taught.Physical Activity - a great game can provide your dog with an outlet for all that pent up energy, and depending on the game it can help to get us more active too!