Food-based engagement games are a simple but powerful way to build your relationship with your dog. They do more than just provide a snack — they encourage mental stimulation, satisfy natural instincts like sniffing and foraging, and give your dog a positive outlet for their energy.
Playing these games together also strengthens the bond between you and your dog, teaching them that you’re fun, rewarding, and worth paying attention to.
GET IT – GET IT (Food Toss)
*Toss food left* – “GET IT GET IT”
*Toss food right* – “GET IT GET IT”
*Toss food left* – “GET IT GET IT”
*Toss food right* – “GET IT GET IT”
*repeat sequence a couple of times*
Start with a short toss at first – get the dog’s attention and be sure they see you toss the treat.
When they get the first treat, wait until they turn back to look at you and then toss the next treat in the opposite direction…. And so forth…
You can also do a target version (use a small dish, lid, or paper plate to place the treat). Once the dog knows the game, the targets can be used to help the dog confidently go to new places. The targets can be used to encourage a shy dog to walk down a hall, explore a room, or go close to strangers. Just place a series of targets in a trail – “GET IT GET IT”
CHASE ME!
A love of running and chasing is hard-wired in dogs. It is a big part of play between dogs: they consider it a very cool game…Dogs will consider it super-cool that you know the game, too!
One absolute rule: It’s one-way only. The dog should chase you and not the other way around (don’t encourage the dog to run from you)
To play the game, run away from the dog — make some noise: clapping and giggling are good! This should encourage them to run towards you.
When they are only a few feet away, toss a treat behind you (even through your legs) so they keep running in your direction. Then turn and run the other way You only have to run 5 or 10 feet to play!
This teaches the dog: running to you is fun! This is a great foundation for a fun and reliable recall. Consider interspersing chase games and obedience commands for a fun session!
Know when to stop:
If chase leads to nipping, mouthing, and/or over-exuberant jumping, then the game stops. This game is not recommended for young kids to play for this reason.
CATCH
Some dogs don’t try to catch at first – but as the treats fly gently in their faces, they will try! Enjoy watching those motor skills improve! Coordination may take time, but they will develop the skill.
Catching is fun and often quite amusing for all involved. It is great for old dogs, young dogs, confined dogs, shy dogs, bold dogs, busy dogs, bored dogs—and it is so very easy to play!
Food-based games turn mealtimes into opportunities for learning, enrichment, and bonding. They’re easy to introduce and can make a big difference in your dog’s focus and confidence. If your dog loves play as much as food, check out our Toy-Based Engagement Games for more ways to keep them engaged, or explore Activity-Based Engagement Games to mix in mental and physical challenges.