When you try to come up with games you can enjoy with your dog, The obvious choices come to mind: playing fetch and tug o’ war. Yes, these are the things that come naturally to most dogs, but don’t let your creativity be kept inside the box.

When playing fetch, add a twist to it. Make sure there are one or more obstacles in the way, to create a mental challenge as well. It must not be too difficult to pass, though, or else the dog might just give up and lose interest. If the toy thrown is a favorite, the dog will be much more motivated to get to it.

Instead of a stick, or ball, use a Frisbee. Many dogs find it great fun trying to catch it in mid-air, and it’s fun to watch - even for those sitting on the sideline. The Frisbee can easily be thrown a lot further than anything else, giving some extra exercise to those species that were bred to run around a lot.

Another option amongst your games for dogs, is having the dog find a hidden object by following the scent. This can be done by hiding a favorite toy, because the dog knows the scent. You can also use a treat that the dog enjoys, because finding it means it can “eat the reward”.

When your kids are playing with the dog, be sure to keep a watchful eye. The kids, while enjoying themselves, do not pay enough attention to the dog’s behavior. The animal might start “playing rough” after a while, or in a moment of frustration or hurt, snap at someone. The line between playful and defensive is crossed, but the children fail to notice, possibly with severe consequences.

When playing games for dogs, you should take advantage of the close interaction, seeing you have the animal’s undivided attention. It’s a great opportunity to incorporate some basic obedience training, and teach the dog to pay attention to what you are saying, and expect from it.

Some people, when playing with the dog, literally “plays with the dog”, meaning the dog becomes an object in the game. This could include dressing it up, or having a “dog birthday party”. In these cases it would seem that the owner is enjoying it more than the animal, although it does involve giving it plenty of attention. It lacks involvement from the dog, but it can still enjoy the contact.

When you need ideas for games for dogs, look no further than your own imagination. By simply observing the dog’s nature, and juggling a few variations, you will come up with some very executable ideas. All while exercising your dog.