7 fun games to play with your puppy

Getting a puppy is a big decision that will change your life. You have to consider your living arrangements, choose a breed that will suit your lifestyle, and finally introduce the new family member to your home. Before buying or adopting a puppy, you should be clued up with all the necessary information you may need. Fortunately, there are several sites like Euro Puppy that can help you make the right choice. After all, it would be best if you thought about the right upbringing for your pup from the beginning.

Playing games is not only an excellent way to get your dog tired, but it also positively affects their mental development and, if done right, teaches your puppy commands and correct behavior.

Puppy games can be fun for both of you, and a wide variety of them will prevent your dog from getting bored. Teaching commands through playing is the most fun way to do it, and it will benefit your life later.

Well-behaved dogs cause a lot less trouble. However, games for adult dogs may be too intense for puppies. Here, you will find seven fun puppy games you can play together.

1. Fetch

Fetch is probably the most popular game for dogs in the world, but there may still be some tricks you are not aware of. You can teach your dog to come when called and give you the item back when playing fetch with a little effort. With a smaller dog, you can start gently and start with short distances. Sometimes, especially in the beginning, it may be necessary for you to run alongside your dog and show him what you want them to do.

With older puppies, you can try fetching frisbees. They get to run longer distances, and it’s fun for dogs, as it promotes their natural drive for the chase. For a start, try buying a soft frisbee, as plastic ones are hard, and it can discourage your dog if it hits them in the nose. Practice catching with rolling it on the ground or throwing it short distances.

2. Tug-of-war

Tug-of-war is many dogs’ favorite game. It can be a great way of bonding, and you can teach your dog some good habits. To start, take a favorite toy and offer it to him until your dog grabs it, then start pulling back and forth. From time to time, pretend that your dog is winning to make him happy and interested.

You can start practicing the “Drop” command. Just stop and wait for your dog to drop it on its own. Sometimes, it may take a while but be patient. After he drops it, say the word “drop” and give him a treat. You can repeat it every time you play.

The most important thing you can teach your puppy is biting only the items you give him. The game should stop if your dog’s teeth touch anything other than a toy. If he tries to grab your arm or something laying on the ground, stop immediately and show him that this is the end of the game.

3. Hide-and-seek

You can play hide-and-seek in two different ways — with yourself or some toys. Hide and seek is a great game to teach your dog to rely on his sense of smell, and it’s the beginning of tracking exercises.

The first way you can play is to ask someone to hold your dog for a while and then after you hide in another room, let him go. At first, you can say “search” or give him a sign, but after, try to make him figure it out. After finding you, always praise the puppy. When your dog gets a little practice, try to make him stay by himself. The other person may be in the same room as the dog and check if he is doing what he is supposed to.

4. Three cups

This is a simple game similar to one that kids play with magicians. Take three cups and one treat, show your dog that you are putting the treat under one, and wait for him to take it. When you are sure that they get what you want them to do, start mixing the cups around. It will train your dog’s brain and sense of smell.

5. Kong and other food toys

Food dispensing toys are excellent if you want to teach your puppy to take care of himself. They are fun and encourage some natural scavenging abilities. When using a Kong, just stuff it with some treats and put it in the freezer for the night. When you train your dog to be alone at home, you can give it to him before you leave.

6. Agility

It is possible to create your own ability course in the living room with blankets, chairs, and other small obstacles. Use treats to lure a puppy and follow the track rewarding it when it completes all of them. This is really good for learning the basics of agility, and it will help you with future dog training with more advanced courses.

7. Water games

Many dogs have a natural dislike of water, but if you start to prepare them when they are young, going to the beach or lake can be so fun. You can teach them to play water fetch (but don’t forget the life jacket) or have some unique water toys prepared.

If you can’t go somewhere where there’s water, but you still want your dog to be used to getting wet, try playing in a kiddie pool in the backyard. Some dogs love splashing around without the need to swim, especially on hotter days.

The bottom line on puppy games

Playing puppy games is a lot of fun for any dog lover. The opportunities are vast, and you can decide what you want to do and what you want to teach your dog to suit your lifestyle.

Playing fetch can be good for active people who wish to jog with their pup or ride a bike alongside him. You have to get them used to basic puppy games before moving on to the more demanding exercises.

Playing together will also help you bond with your puppy and make him more social. All of these games will help your pup learn the basics, but they may need some time to be a really good boy or girl!

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