What you need

  • Small treats β€” optional

How to do it

  1. Your dog needs to know sit, stay and come first.
  2. Ask your dog to sit and stay in one room, then leave and hide somewhere close and easy at first, like behind a door.
  3. Once hidden, call your dog's name once.
  4. When they find you, celebrate with praise and play.
  5. Make the hiding places harder bit by bit, or play with the whole family, with your dog finding each person in turn.

⚠️ Safety

Supervision: Stay with your pet the whole time.

Hide only in safe places your dog can reach without jumping or squeezing. Keep doors to stairs, balconies and the street closed while your dog searches.

πŸ‘€ What to watch for

Whining or giving up means it is too hard: hide closer, or call again so your dog can follow your voice.

Sources

Last checked November 3, 2026. These activities are for healthy pets β€” if yours has a health or behavior condition, ask your vet which games suit them.