Choose a safe, easy-to-handle version and keep the first session short.
scent game
Hide and Seek
Making coming to you feel like a rewarding search game.
3-8 min Level 2 moderate Supervised activity
How to try it
Start with the easy version.
- Ask for a stay or have someone hold your dog.
- Hide in an easy spot and call once.
- Celebrate and reward when your dog finds you.
Common mistake: Hiding too well before your dog understands the game.
Track: How quickly your dog finds you after one call.
Where this fits in the finder
Best for recall, bonding, finding a familiar person
Location indoors, yard
Equipment treats or toy
Safety facets medium chew risk, treats, apartment, yard
Back to Finder Browse the full game library Related paths
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Helpful gear
Simple tools that fit this game.
About this guide
This is a research-based starter description, not a record of a hands-on test. The game name appears in the public Brain Training for Dogs module map; our short instructions are an editorial starting point, not a reproduction of a paid lesson.
For general enrichment and reward principles, see Blue Cross: Enrichment for dogs and Dogs Trust: Training with rewards. These sources do not endorse this specific game or confirm it fits your dog.
Hide and Seek is a play activity, not treatment for separation anxiety. If being apart causes distress, stop this game and contact a veterinarian or qualified behavior professional. See Dogs Trust's separation-anxiety guidance.
Keep playing
Choose your next homemade game
Use your dog's interests and the supplies you already have to choose one manageable activity.