Simple Game That Tires Your Dog Physically and Mentally

Want to burn energy fast while building focus and drive? This 5-minute challenge uses your dog’s favourite toy, their food, and a few basic commands to keep them engaged and satisfied.

What You’ll Need

• Your Dog – Ready to play and learn.

• A Favourite Toy – Tug, ball, or whatever gets your dog fired up.

• Some Food – Kibble or treats work great. If your dog won’t take food during play, consider adjusting their feeding schedule to rebuild food drive.

The Exercise

1. Start in Heel Position

• Place your dog in a heel and ask them to stay.

• Drop their favourite toy nearby as a distraction.

2. Lure with Food

• Use food to lure them away from the toy.

• Mark good behaviour with “Good” (for food) or “Yes” (for toy).

• Reward with food once they successfully disengage.

3. Release to the Toy

• Once your dog calmly takes the food, release them to the toy with “Yes!”

• Let them play briefly, then reset.

Add Variations

• Sometimes reward with food immediately.

• Other times, ask for a heel or sit before releasing to the toy.

• Keep mixing it up to challenge their focus and stamina.

Why It Works

• Physical Exercise: Moving between food and toy burns energy fast.

• Mental Engagement: Switching rewards builds self-control and focus.

• Versatile: Works in your yard, a field, or even your living room.

 Pro Tips

• Build Drive: If your dog won’t take food during play, try feeding after training sessions instead of free-feeding.

• Use Clear Markers: “Good” for food, “Yes!” for toy, make it consistent.

• Customize It: Prefer calmer play? Teach a structured toy delivery (like sitting before the release).

The Result

In just five minutes, you’ll have a dog who’s focused, satisfied, and tired, in the best way. This quick routine strengthens obedience, impulse control, and their love for training.