Mousetrap game
Place a treat or kibble on the floor or on the edge of their bed. Put your hands over the kibble like a “mousetrap” over the food so the dog cannot reach it.
Your dog might try to paw you to get at the food, but wait until the dog looks away.
Once your dog looks away, then take the food from under your hand and feed it away from your hand.
How does this teach manners around food?
Reduces resource guarding tendencies
Encourages focus and engagement.
Have your dog sit or lie in front of you on the bed. Hold small treats.
Step back one pace. Give “stay.” Wait 1–2 sec, say “free,” toss a treat. Return, ask sit/lie. Repeat 6×.
Increase hold from 1 to 2 min by +10 sec each rep.
Add distance: when one step is solid, move back two steps; keep cue, brief hold, “free,” reward. If dog breaks, shorten distance/time and reset.
Add distraction: make a small movement (shift weight or soft clap). If dog holds, say “free” and reward; if not, step back.
Why play matters
Builds trust: Regular, positive interactions teach your dog that you’re a source of fun and safety.
Reinforces training: Games can reinforce cues like "sit," "stay," or "drop it" in a rewarding, low-pressure context.
Burns energy: Physical play helps reduce destructive behaviours caused by boredom or excess energy.
Deepens communication: Play teaches you to read your dog’s body language and respond appropriately, improving mutual understanding.
