What you need

  • Cardboard box — optional
  • Small treats — optional
  • Your pet's favorite toy — optional

How to do it

  1. Clear a path and set up two or three easy obstacles: chairs to weave between, a flattened open box to walk through, a row of books to step over.
  2. Walk your dog through slowly on a leash or by luring with a treat or toy, rewarding each obstacle.
  3. Once they know the route, go a little faster or change the order.
  4. Adjust the course to your dog: low steps for small, young or older dogs.

⚠️ Safety

Supervision: Stay with your pet the whole time.

Keep everything low and stable so nothing tips over. No jumping for puppies whose joints are still growing, or for dogs with joint problems. Use a non-slip floor or a rug.

👀 What to watch for

A dog that refuses an obstacle is unsure, not stubborn: make it easier or skip it.

Sources

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