Here are some fun games to play with your dog:
• Fetch - Playing fetch with a favorite toy is a classic dog game. If your dog enjoys chasing moving objects, here is an example:
Just make sure not to play for too long, especially for high-energy dogs.
• Hide and seek - Hide some delicious treats or toys around the house or yard and have your dog find them. This can also be done with you as the hider.
• Tug-of-war - Play a friendly game of tug-of-war with rope toys or plush toys that are safe for tugging:
Make sure to start with a toy that is appropriate for your dog's size.
• Go for a walk - Go for an extended walk together. This provides mental and physical exercise for your dog. Does your dog like to walk off-leash? Play "find it" with treats and toys.
• Dress up - Putting silly hats, sunglasses, bandanas or play costumes on your dog while giving them treats and praise:
• Agility course - Set up an obstacle course in your yard with things like tunnels, jumps, weave poles, etc. Time your dog to make it more challenging.
• Frisbee - If your dog enjoys chasing moving objects, playing frisbee or fly disc is a fun alternative to fetch that can provide lots of exercise and entertainment for your dog:
• Tag - Gently chasing your dog with excited, encouraging voices and petting them when they're within arm's reach. Let your dog chase you too for extra fun.
• Puzzle toys - Puzzle toys and treat dispensing toys can keep dogs occupied with fun challenges and make playtime last longer:
• Wrestling or simulated fighting - Some dogs love playfully "fighting" with their owners or wrestling with rope toys. Make sure any physical contact remains friendly and avoid injury.
• Trick training - Teaching your dog some fun tricks and commands like sit, roll over, high five, crawl, spin and dance. Use treats, praise and patience.