A fun game for you and your dog

I am always looking for ways to keep my dog happy and engaged. I've found living up north that I don't always feel like dragging myself outside, especially in the winter, so I've come up with a couple of indoor games to play with my dog, Janus. Our favorite is "Find the Biscuit".

This is a really simple fun game, and you can make it as involved as you want. The only real commands your dog need obey are "sit" and "stay" and this is good practice for both.

The first run through you should start simple. Have your dog sit and stay in the center of the room and place their favorite treats in several visible locations (window sills, bookcase, etc.) Then proclaim, "Find the Biscuit!" or some such go to it command. Once your pup has this down pat you can make it interesting.

Janus and I now play the advanced version. I have her sit in another room, while I truly hide her treats. In shoes, baskets, under cushions, in coat pockets. It's really fun to see your dog improve and get better at the game. Dogs are amazingly adept when food is involved, and will problem solve when necessary. Another variation if you have more then one dog, and they're game, is having them all search at once, competition style.

However the game comes to pass in your house I think you'll find it a big improvement to just tossing your hound a treat. Have fun!