Summer is here, and it’s time to get outside, enjoy the sunshine, and have some fun with your furry best friend! If you're looking for ways to keep your dog entertained, active, and mentally engaged, you’re in luck! Treat-based games are a fantastic way to keep your pup's tail wagging while providing healthy rewards and bonding time. And the best part? These games are perfect for dogs of all sizes and breeds!

Here at Miss Nelly’s Canine Gourmet, we know that playtime is an essential part of your dog's well-being. That’s why we’ve created this list of 10 fun summer games that incorporate treats to make the experience even more rewarding. Whether you’re in the yard or cozy indoors, there’s something for every dog!

So, grab your pup’s favorite treats (like Miss Nelly’s all-natural gourmet biscuits), and let’s dive into these paw-some games!

10 Fun Summer Games to Play with Your Dog Using Treats

Pick your favorite, try it with your dog this summer and let us know which one is your favorite in the comments!

1. Treat Treasure Hunt

How to Play: Scatter small treats around your backyard or inside your home, and let your dog sniff out the goodies! Use a command like “Find it!” to start the game. You can hide the treats under objects or tuck them into corners to make it a little more challenging.

Why It’s Fun:Dogs love using their sense of smell, and a treasure hunt taps into their natural instincts. It’s mentally stimulating and a fantastic way to keep them engaged while burning off some energy.

Safety Notes:Make sure to hide treats in places that are safe (no sharp edges or tight spaces). Use small, healthy treats that are easy to chew and digest.

Tips for Different Sizes: For small dogs, hide treats at their level—on the floor or low shelves. Large dogs will love the challenge of higher hiding spots or even under larger objects. You can adjust the amount based on your dog’s size and energy level!

Treat Tip: Use a mix of their regular kibble or part of their daily food if you want to keep things healthy without adding extra calories.

2. Frozen Kong “Pupsicle” Challenge

How to Play: Take a Kong or another fill-able dog toy, stuff it with some yummy ingredients like peanut butter or plain yogurt, and add some of Miss Nelly’s tasty treats. Freeze the toy overnight. On a hot summer day, give it to your dog for a cool, refreshing treat challenge!

Why It’s Fun: Your dog will love working to get every last bite from the frozen toy. It’s not only delicious but also keeps them entertained and cool at the same time.

Safety Notes: Make sure the ingredients are dog-safe (no xylitol, only plain yogurt). Supervise your pup to ensure they don’t chew through the toy, especially if they’re a strong chewer.

Tips for Different Sizes: Small dogs will love a small-sized Kong, while large dogs may need a bigger version. Be sure to give them the right size so they don’t get frustrated!

Treat Tip: Use high-value treats like Miss Nelly’s gourmet bites or pieces of fruit (like bananas) to make the experience even more special.

3. Bobbing for Treats (“Splash & Snack”)

How to Play: Fill a shallow kiddie pool or large basin with water, and toss in a few floating treats or treat-filled toys. Encourage your dog to “bob” for the treats—using their nose or paw to retrieve them from the water.

Why It’s Fun: This game combines water play with treat hunting, which is perfect for hot summer days. It’s a great way to cool off while giving your dog a fun challenge.

Safety Notes: Always supervise your dog around water. Use shallow water so they can comfortably retrieve treats without any risk of drowning.

Tips for Different Sizes: For small dogs, a small tub or even a large bowl can be a fun start. Large dogs will enjoy a bigger kiddie pool to splash around in.

Treat Tip: Use treats that float or are inside floating toys, so your dog can easily find them. Hard biscuits or healthy fruit slices work great here!

4. Treat Toss & Catch

How to Play: Stand a few feet away from your dog and toss a small treat into the air. Watch as your dog jumps or reaches to catch it! Start with easy tosses and gradually increase the challenge as your dog gets better at it.

Why It’s Fun: Dogs love catching things in mid-air, and treats make it an extra exciting challenge. It’s a great way to practice focus and agility, plus it’s fun for both of you!

Safety Notes: Be sure to toss soft, small treats to avoid choking hazards. Don’t throw treats too high or from too far, especially with puppies or older dogs.

Tips for Different Sizes: For small dogs, toss the treat low to the ground to avoid high jumps. Large dogs may enjoy higher or longer tosses to really get them moving!

Treat Tip: Use small, soft treats to make it easier for your dog to catch and quickly enjoy the reward.

5. Obstacle Course Treat Trail

How to Play: Set up a simple DIY obstacle course using items like broomsticks (for jumps), cones (for weaving), and chairs (for crawling under). Lead your dog through the course, rewarding them with treats after each challenge.

Why It’s Fun: This game turns your yard or living room into an exciting adventure for your dog! It’s a great way to burn off energy while improving agility and obedience.

Safety Notes: Ensure obstacles are low and sturdy, especially for small or older dogs. Keep jumps low to prevent injury, and supervise closely.

Tips for Different Sizes: For small dogs, use smaller obstacles (like a rolled towel to jump over or cushions to crawl under). For large dogs, space obstacles further apart and ensure they have enough room to move comfortably.

Treat Tip: Use high-value treats to motivate your dog through each challenge. Soft training treats work well because they’re easy to hand out quickly.

6. “Which Cup?” Shell Game

How to Play: Place a treat under one of three cups, then shuffle the cups around. Encourage your dog to choose the correct cup by sniffing or pawing at it. When they get it right, reward them with the treat!

Why It’s Fun: It’s like a magic trick for your dog! This game is great for improving your dog’s focus and problem-solving skills while keeping them entertained.

Safety Notes: Use safe, lightweight cups that won’t break. Supervise closely to prevent your dog from chewing on the cups or getting frustrated.

Tips for Different Sizes: For small dogs, you can use smaller cups or bowls. For larger dogs, choose sturdier cups to prevent them from knocking them over too easily.

Treat Tip: Use smelly, high-value treats so your dog can easily track the right cup. Freeze-dried liver works great for this!

7. Hide-and-Treat Seek

How to Play: You can play either by hiding yourself or hiding a treat. If hiding yourself, have someone hold your dog while you hide. Then, call your dog’s name and let them find you. If hiding a treat, just place it somewhere your dog can search for it.

Why It’s Fun: This game engages your dog’s senses and gives them a mental workout while keeping the fun interactive. Plus, dogs love surprises, and finding a hidden treat is a reward all on its own!

Safety Notes: Hide in safe areas where your dog won’t run into hazards. If hiding a treat, make sure it’s not hidden in a place where your dog could get hurt.

Tips for Different Sizes: For small dogs, hide in accessible places (behind a sofa or low furniture). Large dogs will enjoy more space and can handle bigger challenges, like behind trees or tall furniture.

Treat Tip: Use aromatic treats that your dog can easily smell out. This makes the game more engaging!

8. Tricks for Treats Marathon

How to Play: Gather your dog’s favorite treats and ask them to perform a series of tricks. For example: sit, shake, spin, down, etc. After each trick, reward them with a treat and plenty of praise!

Why It’s Fun: This game turns training into a fun challenge. It’s a great way to reinforce obedience and showcase your dog’s skills while they earn delicious rewards!

Safety Notes: Keep the session short to avoid tiring out your dog. If it’s a hot day, do this indoors or in a shaded area.

Tips for Different Sizes: For small dogs, focus on easier, gentler tricks. Larger dogs might enjoy a mix of physical tricks (like jumping or running in circles).

Treat Tip: Since this is a high-repetition game, use small training treats to avoid overfeeding. You can even use part of their kibble!

9. Tug-of-War with a Twist

How to Play: Engage in a friendly game of tug-of-war with your dog. After a few moments of tugging, give a command like “Drop it” and reward your dog with a treat when they release the toy. Continue alternating play and treat rewards.

Why It’s Fun: Dogs love tug-of-war—it taps into their natural instincts and provides a great workout. By adding a “Drop it” command, you help reinforce impulse control.

Safety Notes: Use a sturdy rope or toy that’s designed for tugging. Don’t yank too hard—let your dog set the pace.

Tips for Different Sizes: For small dogs, use a smaller, softer toy. For large dogs, make sure the toy is durable and strong enough to handle their strength.

Treat Tip: Use treats that are easy to chew quickly to keep the game flowing smoothly.

10. DIY Treat Puzzle (Muffin Tin Game)

How to Play: Take a muffin tin, place a treat under a few of the cups, and cover all the cups with tennis balls. Let your dog figure out how to move the balls to reveal the treats hidden underneath.

Why It’s Fun: This puzzle game engages your dog’s brain and keeps them entertained for a while. It’s great for mental stimulation and provides a rewarding challenge.

Safety Notes: Ensure that the muffin tin is placed on a non-slip surface to prevent it from sliding. Be sure your dog doesn’t chew on the tennis balls.

Tips for Different Sizes: For small dogs, you can use a smaller tin or cups. For large dogs, make sure the toys or cups are big enough for them to move comfortably.

Treat Tip: Use high-value, aromatic treats to motivate your dog to solve the puzzle.

Tips for Adapting Games to Different Dog Sizes

No matter what size your dog is, you can adapt these games to fit their abilities. Small dogs might need simpler challenges or lower jumps, while large dogs can tackle bigger obstacles and longer games. Be sure to adjust the difficulty as you go, depending on how your dog is doing, and always make sure they’re having fun!

Don't forget to tell us your favorite one of the 10 fun summer games to play with your dog using treats you love most in the comments!

Best Practices for Treat-Based Play

• Moderation: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Use small treats to avoid overfeeding.

• Choose Healthy Treats: Always opt for high-quality dog treats like Miss Nelly’s for a nutritious, tasty reward.

• Hydration: Keep fresh water available, especially if you’re playing outside in the heat.

• Positive Reinforcement: Always make sure the game is fun and rewarding for your dog. Praise and treats should come together to reinforce the joy of play!

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy some fun, treat-filled games with your dog. Whether it’s a treasure hunt, a frozen treat challenge, or a game of tug-of-war, these activities will keep your dog active, mentally stimulated, and happy. So, gather your treats, head outdoors (or stay cozy indoors), and make the most of the sunny season with your best friend!

At Miss Nelly’s, we believe that the best summer memories are the ones shared with your pup. Happy playing!