Games for dogs and kids

Both kids and dogs love to play. It is double the fun when they play together. Here are some simple games that children and dogs can enjoy together while also reinforcing appropriate behavior for both of them:

Hide and Seek:
This classic game becomes extra special when played with a dog. Your child holds the dog’s favorite treat and hides in another room or somewhere outside in a fenced yard. You may have to hold onto the dog as your child is hiding so he doesn’t automatically follow her. As soon as your child is hidden away, let the dog go, telling him to find your child. At first, encourage your child to help the dog find her by calling him. When the dog finds the child, she should make a big deal over him, offering lots of pats, hugs, and praise, as well as his treat. Eventually, your dog will be able to play the game without having his name called.

Find it:
In this game, the dog finds an object such as a treat, toy or ball. To teach this game to your dogs, put him in a sit and stay position or hold him if he doesn’t know these commands. Have your child hide the treat, letting the dog see where it is placed, and then tell him to find it. A lot of praise should be lavished on the dog when he is successful. Allow him to eat the treat or play with the ball or toy when he finds it. After doing this several times, your child can hide the object in a less visible location.

Fetch:
Dogs love to chase and fetch all sorts of different items, including balls, toys, and Frisbees. If playing with a ball be sure that it is small enough to fit comfortable in the dog’s mouth but not so small that he could choke or swallow it. Have your child throw the item while telling the dog to fetch. When the dog returns with the item, tell your child to give him the drop it command. She should give him a lot of praise when he drops the item. Make sure your child knows never to try and take the toy out of the dog’s mouth because she could be bitten. If the dog won’t drop the item, have your child throw something else for him to chase, which will probably cause him to drop what he has in his mouth.

Soccer:
To start, get a soccer ball or any other sort of soft ball, making sure it is too large for the dog to pick up in his mouth. Have your child gently kick the ball so it rolls on the ground toward the dog. If necessary, have your child encourage the dog to get the ball. At first, the dog may try to pick up the ball but will quickly realize that he must push it with his nose for it to move. When he does this, the child should give him a lot of praise. Once the dog grasps the game, he and your child can kick and push the ball between them.

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