Best Ways to Teach Your Dog to Play Hide and Seek

Playing hide and seek with your dog isn’t just a fun game—it’s also a fantastic way to strengthen your bond, stimulate their mind, and reinforce obedience skills. Dogs naturally love to use their noses and problem-solving abilities, making this game an excellent mental workout. Here’s how you can teach your furry friend to master hide and seek in a few simple steps.

Start with Basic Commands

Before diving into hide and seek, ensure your dog is familiar with basic commands like “stay” and “come.” These commands form the foundation of the game. Begin by having your dog sit and stay in one room while you step just a few feet away. Call them with an enthusiastic “come!” and reward them with treats or praise when they find you. Gradually increase the distance as they get more comfortable.

Introduce the Hiding Element

Once your dog reliably responds to “come,” it’s time to add the hiding aspect. Start with easy hiding spots, like behind a door or a piece of furniture in the same room. Use an excited tone to encourage them, saying phrases like “Find me!” or “Where am I?” When they locate you, celebrate with treats, pets, or a quick play session. Keep the early sessions short and fun to maintain their enthusiasm.

Increase the Difficulty

As your dog becomes more skilled, make the game more challenging. Hide in different rooms, under blankets, or behind larger objects. You can even involve family members to take turns hiding, which adds variety and excitement. If your dog struggles, give them hints by calling their name or making soft noises to guide them. The key is to keep the game engaging without frustrating them.

Incorporate Scent and Toys

For an extra layer of fun, use your dog’s favorite toy or a treat pouch to strengthen their scent-tracking skills. Let them sniff the item before you hide, then encourage them to search for it. This variation taps into their natural instincts and makes the game even more rewarding. Over time, you can phase out treats and rely more on praise, turning hide and seek into a purely playful activity.

Keep It Positive and Patient

Not all dogs learn at the same pace, so patience is essential. If your dog seems confused or loses interest, take a break and try again later. Always end sessions on a positive note—even if it means “hiding” in an obvious spot for an easy win. The goal is to make the experience joyful, reinforcing their confidence and eagerness to play.

With consistency and enthusiasm, your dog will soon be a hide-and-seek pro, delighting in the thrill of the hunt and the joy of finding their favorite person. Happy hiding!