Time Tested and True Dog Games

Bird dogs, or retrievers, particularly enjoy games in which they have to retrieve an item. Equip yourself with plenty of projectiles and in no time your dog will be running and jumping with a look of ecstasy on his face.

For water retrieving dogs, go to a ravine (in a dog friendly park) or set up a kiddy pool in the backyard and throw the ball, stick, toy, etc. into the water. It may make your dog a bit smelly for a short time but it is well worth it considering the joy it brings. Hunting dogs such as hounds and terriers were bred to seek out fast moving game such as fox or mink.

As such, they are very good at games that involve hide and seek. A great way to initiate a game is to have the dog smell the ball, sock, toy, etc., they have to seek out and then throw this item into a thick bush or pile of leaves and watch them go. Some dogs will tear into the obstacle to get at their quest while others will stand by the location of their quarry until you come to claim the item. Getting to know what natural inclinations your dog has can really spice up play time. Tailoring activities that you know he will enjoy will make play time that much more fun.