Dogs can get a little too excited during the holidays, which can sometimes result in unwanted behaviors like chewing on decorations or barking for attention. The key to avoiding this? Mental stimulation and play! Fun holiday games not only help tire out your pup but also redirect their energy into positive activities. Engaging them with challenges like treat-finding games or gift unwrapping keeps boredom at bay and encourages good behavior. Whether you’re hosting guests or relaxing by the fire, these interactive games will keep your pup happy, stimulated, and feeling the love.
- Find the Treats - Holiday Edition
- How to Play: Hide treats around your home or under holiday decorations. Encourage your dog to "find it!" and let them sniff out their rewards.
- Why It’s Great: This mentally stimulating game channels your dog’s natural sniffing instincts and keeps them busy when you’re entertaining guests.
- Holiday “Red Light, Green Light”
- How to Play: Grab a favorite dog toy. Start moving around the room or shaking the toy to get their attention (Green Light). Then, freeze and hold the toy still (Red Light). Your pup has to sit or stop moving to “win” a turn with the toy. This game works extremely well with our Puff & Play Toy that's just been puffed and cooled.
- Why It’s Great: This is a fun way to reinforce commands like “sit” and “stay” while burning off some energy.
- The Christmas Sock Hunt
- How to Play: Place small treats (like Yeti Dog Crunchy Bites) into a few holiday socks and let your dog dig through to find the treats. You can tie light knots on the socks to add a fun challenge.
- Why It’s Great: It’s an exciting, low-mess way to engage your pup’s problem-solving skills and give them a rewarding treat.
- The “Snowball” Toss
- How to Play: Use soft plush toys, balls, or even rolled-up socks as “snowballs.” Play fetch indoors or outside with your dog, rewarding them with a treat when they bring it back to you.
- Why It’s Great: Perfect for colder weather when dogs can’t play outside as long. It adds movement and keeps them active. Improving their game of fetch in the process.
- DIY Doggie “Gift Unwrapping”
- How to Play: Wrap a some bite size treats or a chew in dog-safe wrapping paper or a festive towel. Let your dog “unwrap” the gift to reveal their holiday treat! Add extra layers for a longer challenge.
- Why It’s Great: This game combines mental stimulation and a festive surprise for your pup while making them part of the holiday gift-giving fun.
- Tired Out with Tug-of-War
- How to Play: Use a strong, festive rope toy and challenge your dog to a fun game of tug.
- Why It’s Great: Tug-of-war strengthens your bond with your dog and helps them release pent-up holiday excitement.
- “Follow the Leader” Holiday Walk
- How to Play: Lead your pup on a fun indoor or outdoor “parade” around the house, weaving through furniture or along a snowy path.
- Why It’s Great: It’s great for both physical exercise and reinforcing walking skills, especially with guests around.
Make the Holidays Fun for Everyone
These holiday games are easy to set up, require minimal supplies, and give your dog the mental and physical stimulation they crave. Adding in their favorite treats and toys ensures a perfect mix of fun, exercise, and relaxation—keeping your pup happy and out of trouble during the busiest season of the year.
Looking for more ways to keep your pets happy and engaged this holiday season? Check out our additional resources and blog posts for tips, treats, and fun activities!
Holiday Memories: DIY Paw Print Ornaments – Yeti Dog Chew
Creative DIY Holiday Photoshoot Ideas with Your Dog! – Yeti Dog Chew
Calm and Cozy Holidays: Helping Your Dog Relax During Festive Gatherings – Yeti Dog Chew
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