10 Fun Games to Play With Your Dog at Home
Playing games with your dog is not only fun but also a great way to strengthen your bond, provide exercise, and stimulate their mind. Whether you have a large backyard or just some indoor space, these games will keep your dog entertained and happy. Here are 10 fun games you can play with your dog at home!

1. Hide and Seek
Hide and seek is a great game that combines mental and physical stimulation. Start by having your dog sit and stay while you hide somewhere in your home. Once you’re ready, call their name and encourage them to find you.
When they do, reward them with treats or praise. Over time, you can increase the difficulty by hiding in trickier spots.
Tip: If your dog struggles with staying, have a family member hold them while you hide.
2. Tug-of-War
Tug-of-war is a simple yet effective game that helps burn energy and strengthen your dog’s muscles. Use a sturdy rope toy and encourage your dog to grab one end while you gently pull the other.
Make sure to play by the rules—teach your dog to release the toy on command to keep the game safe and fun.
Fun Fact: Tug-of-war is a great way to practice impulse control and reinforce commands like “drop it.”
3. Find the Treats
Stimulate your dog’s natural sniffing instincts with a “find the treats” game. Hide small treats around the room—under cushions, behind furniture, or in toys—and encourage your dog to sniff them out.
Start with easy hiding spots and gradually make it more challenging as they get better at the game.
Extra Detail: Use low-calorie treats if playing frequently to avoid overfeeding.
4. Fetch
Fetch is a timeless game that never fails to entertain. Use a soft ball, squeaky toy, or frisbee to throw across your yard or living room. Encourage your dog to retrieve it and bring it back to you.
To keep the game engaging, mix up the items you throw or introduce a slight challenge, like bouncing the ball off a wall.
Tip: If your dog doesn’t naturally return the toy, teach the “come” and “drop it” commands to make the game smooth and fun.

5. The Shell Game
The shell game is an excellent brain exercise for your dog. Place three cups upside-down on the floor and hide a treat under one of them. Shuffle the cups around and encourage your dog to find the treat.
This game enhances their focus, problem-solving skills, and sense of smell.
Fun Fact: Dogs rely heavily on scent, so they’ll often “sniff out” the treat instead of watching your movements.
6. Obstacle Course
Turn your home into a fun obstacle course using items like cushions, chairs, and broomsticks. Guide your dog through the course by having them jump over, crawl under, or weave between obstacles.
This game is great for physical exercise and builds confidence as your dog learns to tackle new challenges.
Tip: Use treats or toys as rewards for completing each section of the course.
7. Chase the Bubbles
Dogs love chasing bubbles, and it’s a fantastic way to provide exercise indoors or outside. Use pet-safe bubble solution, blow bubbles into the air, and watch your dog jump and chase after them.
It’s a fun, low-effort game that will keep your dog entertained.
Extra Detail: You can find flavored or non-toxic bubbles designed specifically for dogs at pet stores.
8. Indoor Fetch With Stairs
If you have stairs at home, use them to take fetch to the next level. Toss a soft toy or ball up the stairs and have your dog run up to retrieve it. This adds an extra workout and burns off plenty of energy.
Make sure the steps are safe and clear of obstacles to avoid accidents.
Fun Fact: Running stairs provides an excellent cardio workout for dogs and strengthens their legs.
9. DIY Scent Games
Create a DIY scent game by hiding your dog’s favorite toy or treat under a blanket or towel. Let your dog sniff it out and uncover the hidden surprise.
You can also hide their toys inside boxes or containers with small openings to make it more challenging.
Tip: Rotate their toys regularly to keep the game fresh and exciting.

10. Freeze Tag
Freeze tag is an interactive game that works well for energetic dogs. Run around with your dog to get them excited, then freeze in place suddenly. Train them to stop when you stop, rewarding them for following along.
This game helps improve their impulse control and reinforces commands like “sit” or “stay.”
Extra Detail: Play in a clear space to give your dog plenty of room to move safely.
Playing games with your dog at home keeps them physically fit, mentally sharp, and, most importantly, happy. By rotating these activities, you’ll ensure your dog stays engaged and entertained every day. Plus, these games are an excellent way to bond and create lasting memories with your furry companion!