Hide and Seek for Dogs - Let's Make it Fun!

by Mary Simpson

Published: July 3rd, 2025

(photo credit: Fibs.Z / shutterstock.com)

Keeping your dog mentally stimulated can be a challenge. Especially, I’ve discovered, during heat waves when outdoor activity is curtailed, rainy weather when it’s down to a quick trip around the block, and of course, icy winters when once again, outings tend to be utilitarian versus a day of fun and adventure (unless your pooch is of the Husky variety).

What to do? Rather than rely on puzzle games or chew toys that will probably keep him occupied for a little while but are pretty much a solo activity, consider a rousing game of hide and seek (H&S). Yes, just like when we were kids, this seek-and-discover type of fun ticks so many of his sensory boxes. Smell, sight, sound, hunting, capturing… and, of course, the excitement of discovery.

Now, if you’ve never done anything more than tuck behind a door, then spring out in front of him (that’s okay, we’ve all done it), it’s time to ratchet up your H&S skills. And have we got some tips for you.

Let’s talk rules. It has to be fun (not scary), he needs to have to really work at it, win meaningful rewards, and you have to challenge him by amping up the “seek” portion over time.

hide and seek for dogs let s make it fun

If you’re a beginner in H&S, start by having your dog sit, stay or have someone hold him, then go hide. C’mon, not the usual places that would cause any dog to roll his eyes and walk directly to your standard hideout, but someplace new. Call his name, and when he finally finds you, he gets a treat. Bet you haven’t done the treat before, have you? Now, you’re talking his language and using something smaller yet highly tasty, like freeze-dried, high-protein liver treats, is perfect for keeping his attention while not filling him up.

Next time you hide, find someplace different and have a tug toy ready. When he ultimately discovers you, engage in a quick game of pull-and-play. He won’t be expecting that, and it helps to keep things different and stimulating for your pet.

Of course, we all run out of hiding spots large enough to conceal a human, so that means it’s time to change up the “seek” portion of the game.

Rather than trying to find you, why not make it his favorite toy?

But how do you encourage him to get excited about finding a toy that’s typically just lying around anyway? You start by letting him sniff it, then let him watch you tuck it into a “hiding place”. It could be under a dog blanket or behind a fun little pillow on the sofa. The important part of this new H&S game is that he sees what you’re doing and is about to get a fun new command. As you point toward the hiding place, you excitedly say, “Find it!”. Suddenly, there’s a new energy in this game, and he’s hearing words he’s going to remember. When he digs it out, he gets loads of praise and maybe even a little treat.

Now, you don’t necessarily want your soft furnishings to suffer as a result of a highly-engaged and very determined dog digging around, so using a durable alternative like this machine-washable dog blanket to protect chairs and sofas along with a fun, distinctive pillow that your pooch will now associate with the H&S game provide an easy solution. And your regular accent cushions will appreciate not being attacked on a regular basis.

Next, you keep the element of surprise going by changing up what he ultimately finds. When he’s become used to uncovering his usual ho-hum collection of toys, suddenly introduce some new, easy-to-stash goodies that he’s never met before. This 12-pack of squeaky dog toys should keep him guessing for at least a few months. Perfect for smaller to medium-sized dogs, there are some great yet still easy-to-hide options for larger dogs like this durable five-pack of plush dog toys that are perfect for tucking away and delighting the most seasoned hunter.

Over time, you’re going to gradually increase the challenge by stashing things in different places that are further away, and each time, you’ll offer less direction. This is where scent really comes into play. If it’s a treat (make it a high-value treat), simply pointing in the general direction and saying “find it” will keep him busy and engaged until he actually does find it. If you’re using his favorite toy, allow him to sniff it before you discreetly hide it away and give the command.

Ready to kick it up another notch? Rather than hide treats, hide soft, easy-grab fabrics that you have rubbed his treats onto. They’ve now picked up that savoury scent, and this gives him something to follow… but when he ultimately uncovers it, there’s something new and different to pique his interest. Especially if you’re moving the H&S game outdoors, you’ll want to have a handy supply of machine-washable blankets that are small enough for you to hide and for your pet to uncover and return to you (chewed or unchewed). Easy options like this six-pack of fleecy dog blankets that measure just 24 x 28 inches are a perfect lightweight choice.

And if you’re tight for space, it’s time to get creative. In addition to tucking items under blankets and pillows, why not try a lightweight dog bowl with a hollow under core that can be used to cover the toy or treat, yet be easily flipped by your dog when he locates it? Deep enough to cover a treat or toy, and when flipped over, it now becomes his food or water bowl.

Playing hide and seek with your dog is perfect stimulation for older dogs and those dealing with health issues because it can be contained within an apartment or house and doesn’t require a great deal of exertion. For younger dogs, it can be expanded to the great outdoors when weather permits. And you can customize the search and recovery to meet the individual needs of your pet. Win-Win-Win!

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and 2 felines who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Always brush in the direction of their hair growth, not against it. Hold them securely but comfortably on your lap or a stable surface, making them feel safe. If the table you are working on is slippery, consider using a small mat or towel to ease any fears. Keep brushing sessions short and positive, especially when first introducing it. Use high-value treats as a distraction and reward, making it a positive experience. Start introducing brushing as early as possible so they can become accustomed to it.

How Do I Stop My Puppy from Biting?

Puppies are adorable, silly, and full of energy - but sometimes, their little needle teeth can be a lot to handle. If your new furry friend keeps using you as a chew toy, you’re definitely not alone.Why Do Puppies Bite?There are several reasons puppies bite:Exploration and play: Puppies use their mouths to interact with their environment, just as they did with their littermates.Teething discomfort: Between 3 and 6 months, puppies lose their baby teeth and grow adult ones. Chewing helps soothe sore gums.Excitement or frustration: Puppies are still learning impulse control. Sometimes, biting is just how they express big feelings.In a litter, puppies learn bite inhibition by playing with each other - when one bites too hard, the other yelps and stops playing. That’s where your training starts.Step 1: Teach That Biting Ends the FunIf your puppy bites you during play, let out a sharp, high-pitched “ow!” - mimicking the way littermates would react - and immediately stop the interaction. Turn away or walk out of the room for a few seconds.This teaches your puppy that biting ends the fun, and over time, they’ll begin to soften their bite - or stop entirely. And don't forget that consistency is key: every family member should react the same way so your puppy receives a clear message.Step 2: Redirect with Chew ToysAlways have appropriate chew toys on hand. If your puppy goes for your fingers or clothes, calmly offer a toy instead. This helps them learn what’s okay to chew.Try a variety of textures - plush toys for soft chewers, rubber toys for teething relief.Rotate toys to keep them interesting.Reinforce good choices by praising your pup when they chew the right thing.

Spring Cleaning Tips for Pet Parents

Spring is a season of renewal, so it’s the perfect time to do some cleaning around the house to freshen things up, get rid of things you no longer need, and make space for new things. But if you share your home with pets, it’s important to take a few steps to ensure their well-being while you do your spring cleaning. Check out the information below to see how spring cleaning could potentially have adverse effects on pets, and what you can do to keep everyone happy.

What Should I Do if My Dog Won't Stop Coughing?

Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to the sound of your dog’s persistent coughing. It’s a scenario that no pet parent wants to face, one that can bring panic and stress. But it’s also an important reminder about one crucial point: Coughing in dogs, while sometimes seemingly minor, can be a sign of underlying health issues – some of which can be pretty serious!The causes of a dog’s cough can vary from simple irritations to more concerning medical conditions. That’s why it’s so important to recognize that a persistent cough isn’t something to ignore.This blog post will provide the information you need to better understand your dog’s cough, identify the potential causes, and (most importantly) know when to seek immediate veterinary help. I will share the different types of coughs, how to recognize the more common causes, and steps you can take to prevent that unwanted cough; keeping your dog happy and healthy.Understanding Coughing in DogsCoughing is a natural reflex designed to clear the airways of irritants. An occasional cough might not be a cause for alarm. In fact, it may even be healthy. For example, if your dog was sniffing outdoors and inhaled a bunch of pollen, coughing could effectively clear this common allergen out of their system. But a persistent cough is a different story.Your dog’s ongoing or constant coughing could signal that something isn’t right, and paying attention is crucial. Understanding the nuances of your dog’s cough and communicating them to your veterinarian can help you reach a diagnosis and find a suitable treatment option faster.Here are the most common types of canine coughs:Honking Cough: Often described as sounding like a goose, this type of cough is frequently associated with kennel cough or tracheal collapse.Dry, Hacking Cough: This type of cough might point towards kennel cough as well, but it could also be triggered by many common allergies or other irritants your dog has been exposed to. Wet, Productive Cough: A wet cough often sounds like your dog is bringing something up. This can be more concerning and is usually associated with pneumonia, heart disease, or other severe medical conditions.Coughing Followed by Vomiting or Gagging: While sometimes seen with kennel cough, it could signal something more serious if your dog is vomiting after they cough.The distinction between these different types is so important. By carefully noting the specific sound and characteristics of your dog’s cough, you can provide your veterinarian with key information they may not be able to collect during an appointment. We’ve all been to a vet appointment where we’ve tried to explain what’s happening because it somehow magically stopped the moment we walked through the door.A short video recording on your phone can be incredibly helpful, allowing your vet to hear the cough firsthand.Common Causes of Coughing in DogsSeveral factors can contribute to your dog’s cough, ranging from minor ailments to serious medical conditions. As a responsible and loving dog parent, I recommend learning the most common causes and what other symptoms to look out for to help you better understand what your dog is experiencing.Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis)This highly contagious respiratory infection often spreads in places where large numbers of dogs congregate, such as boarding facilities, dog parks, and kennels. It’s characterized by a distinctive “honking” cough, which may be accompanied by other cold-like symptoms. While kennel cough will often clear up on its own (much like a human cold), sometimes antibiotics or cough suppressants are necessary. Fortunately, vaccination is an effective preventative measure, especially if you know your dog often frequents high-risk areas.Tracheal CollapseThis occurs when the trachea, or windpipe, weakens. Tracheal collapse most often affects small breeds, but it can happen in any size of dog. The hallmark symptom is a goose-like “honking” couch, which can worsen with excitement or exercise. If you suspect you may be dealing with tracheal collapse, contact your veterinarian. Treatment options include medications, weight management, and, in some cases, surgery.Heart DiseaseThe heart is likely not the first thing that comes to mind when considering the cause of a cough, but coughing can be a significant symptom of heart disease, particularly heart failure. This couch is often worse at night or after exercise and may be accompanied by other signs of heart trouble, like fatigue, weakness, and difficulty breathing. If your dog is diagnosed with heart disease, they will need ongoing management of the underlying heart condition by your veterinarian.Pneumonia Pneumonia, an inflammation of the lungs, can be caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. It is typically associated with a wet, productive cough. Other common symptoms of pneumonia in dogs include:FeverDifficulty breathing or swallowingNasal dischargeRapid heart rateAltered moodChanges in appetiteLethargy or sluggishnessTreatment for pneumonia usually involves antibiotics. Your dog may also require supportive care, addressing some of the symptoms to allow their body to heal. For example, if your dog is struggling with loss of appetite, your vet may recommend an appetite stimulant.Allergies and IrritantsJust like humans, dogs can suffer from environmental allergies and react to inhaled irritants like smoke, dust, and pollen. These allergies and irritants usually trigger a dry, hacking cough. You may also notice other signs your dog is suffering from allergies, such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, ear infections, inflamed skin, and paw licking. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and supportive care.Canine DistemperThis serious and potentially fatal viral illness is thankfully preventable through vaccination. However, if you have a young puppy who hasn’t completed their puppy vaccination schedule, they are at risk. Coughing is one of the most common symptoms, along with fever and neurological signs. If you suspect your dog may have distemper, it is an emergency and requires immediate veterinary care. Treatment is supportive and often intensive.

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