Kids and dogs are a classic combination, but there’s more to it than just adorable photo ops. Playing together has numerous benefits that can help children’s physical and psychological development.
Whether it’s teaching an old dog a new trick or a new dog an old trick, there are plenty of activities that both your children and furry friends will love to do together.
In this article, we will explore some of the best games and activities for kids and dogs to enjoy together, as well as tips on how to make sure everyone stays safe and happy while playing.
Table of Contents
Benefits Of Games For Kids And Dogs
Kids and dogs can really bond when they play together. They develop a mutual trust and understanding that goes beyond just being around each other. It’s also an opportunity for kids to learn how to handle animals properly and safely, as well as how to read the signals that the dog is sending out.
Playtime is also essential for both kids and dogs. Playing helps them stay fit, active, and mentally stimulated, which can help reduce stress levels. Not only that, but it provides an excellent chance for them to practice social skills and basic commands such as “sit” or “stay.” Additionally, playing games also builds the connection between the two of them, which in turn helps deepen their bond.
Games can also provide mental stimulation for both parties. It helps keep the mind active, which is especially important for senior pets who may be dealing with cognitive decline. And for both kids and dogs, engaging in games can improve mood too by providing an outlet for stress or anxiety. All in all, playing games together helps create special memories that will last a lifetime!
When playing together with kids and their dogs, it’s important to ensure that everyone involved is safe during playtime. Making sure that kids understand how to interact with their furry friends appropriately is key to avoiding any accidents from happening. Parents should always supervise the playtime sessions so that everyone remains safe while having lots of fun at the same time!
Where can Dogs and Kids Play together?
Dogs and kids can have a blast playing together in various places.
One option is to find a dog park that allows children. Many dog parks have designated areas for kids to play and interact with dogs. These areas typically have benches or picnic tables for parents to supervise their children while they play with the dogs.
Another option is to find a pet-friendly beach. Many beaches allow dogs and have designated areas for them to play, such as dog-friendly sections of the beach or even entire dog beaches. These beaches are great places for kids to play with dogs in the sand and water.
Don’t forget about your own backyard! Set up a designated play area for both your dog and your kids, with plenty of toys and activities to keep everyone entertained.
Playing outdoor games with kids and dogs can be a fun and rewarding experience. Outdoor activities provide a way to enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and exercise. Kids can benefit from increased physical activity, creativity, and social interaction while playing outside. Meanwhile, dogs can get their daily dose of exercise, mental stimulation, and a great bonding opportunity with their owners.
And when the weather outside is too hot, too cold, or too rainy, indoor playtime can be a great option for both kids and dogs.
Fun Activities and Toys For Kids and Dogs To Engage In With Each Other
Everyone knows that dogs love to play fetch, but there are many fun activities that kids and dogs can enjoy together, and here are some of the best ones to make their time together even more fun.
Fetch And Retrieve Games
Fetch and retrieve games are classics for a reason. They’re fun for both kids and dogs, and they’re great exercise too. They can play with a frisbee, tennis ball, or even a stick, but always make sure that the object is safe for both kids and dogs to play with. Start by teaching your dog to fetch the object, and then have your child throw it. As the dog brings the toy back, the child can give them a treat or a pat on the head.
When playing fetch, make sure to have treats on hand to reward them for their obedience. This will help reinforce the positive behavior and motivate them throughout the game. If the dog is still learning the “fetch” command, try using verbal cues like “go get it” or “bring it here” as they go after the toy. You can also use hand signals like pointing to where you want them to go to help them learn faster.
To make the game more challenging, try throwing the toy further or hiding it somewhere in the house or yard. Just remember to choose a toy that’s appropriate for your dog’s size and breed.
If you have a large enough space, playing fetch indoors can also be an option. Use a soft ball or toy to prevent any damage to household items or injury to the dog or children.
Fetch and retrieve games are a great way to strengthen the bond between your child and their furry friend while also helping build trust, confidence, and obedience.
Remember to teach your kids never to forcibly pull the object out of the dog’s mouth but use commands to get the dog to drop the object.
Hide and Seek
Hide-and-seek is a classic game that kids and dogs alike can enjoy. It’s a great way to get everyone involved in some fun, creative play. This classic game is a great way to provide mental stimulation and exercise for both kids and pets.
Hide and Seek can be played in a variety of ways inside or outside in a variety of ways.
Hide and Seek with Treats – This version involves hiding treats around the house or yard while the dog is not looking. The dog must find the treats once they are hidden. Kids can help by giving hints or pointing in the right direction. This game is great for mental stimulation and can help reinforce obedience and listening skills. As your dog gets better at finding the treats, increase the difficulty by hiding them in more challenging locations or using scent markers to guide them.
Hide and Seek with Toys – Similar to the variation above, but using the dog’s toys instead of treats.
Hide and Seek with People – Kids and dogs can both play hide-and-seek. Have the child hide while the dog isn’t watching, then let the dog loose to search. When the dog finds the child, they should give them a treat or a toy as a reward. As your dog gets better at the game, you can increase the difficulty by hiding in more challenging spots or having multiple people hide at once.
If multiple people are involved, start by holding onto the dog while others hide somewhere inside or outside the house. Then, you let the dog go and say, “Find Mom/Dad/Name of other people!”. Once the dog finds an individual, make a big fuss over them with praise and treats.
You can also switch roles and have the dog hide while your child tries to find them. It’s a great way to bond with your dog and get some exercise in for both the child and the pet. Plus, it helps improve the dog’s obedience and listening skills. Plus, it’s a fun way for your child and dog to bond and play together.
One of the great things about this game is that it’s suitable for all ages, breeds, and sizes of dogs. Whether you have a tiny Chihuahua or a large Rottweiler, they can all join in on the fun! Just make sure to supervise your pup closely during playtime, as some breeds may be more prone to running off or getting too rough with their playmates.
Pull The Wagon
Toddlers can have fun with their dogs by pulling them on a wagon. This is not just a great way for the kid to play with the dog, but the dog also enjoys a fun ride in the wagon. Plus, it gives the child a sense of responsibility as they care for their pet and provides them with a fun activity.
Moreover, an adult could pull the wagon while the child and the dog ride together in it. Another variation of this activity would be to use a blanket instead of a wagon to pull the dog inside the house.
Tug Of War
Tug of war is another classic game that kids and dogs can both enjoy together. It’s an easy game to set up and play. According to the American Kernel Club, “Tug can promote impulse control, build confidence, and strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners.”
All you need for the game is a tug toy like a rope or an old towel.
To start playing, all you need is a rope or towel. Let your pup grab one end while the child takes the other.
Then, have the two slowly pull against each other until one player releases the rope. If playing with a puppy, make sure to give them plenty of breaks, so they don’t tire out too quickly. You should also encourage your pup to take it easy if they become too excited, as tug of war can get quite competitive!
First, have one person hold the toy while the other person or dog takes the opposite end. Then, have each player pull on their end of the toy while trying to get it away from the other; whoever pulls harder and gets the toy wins!
When playing tug with your dog, make sure that everyone involved knows the rules beforehand. Kids should be taught not to yank on the toy too hard and only tug when their dog initiates it first. It’s also important to keep an eye out for signs of fatigue in your pup during play and take breaks when needed.
As long as these simple guidelines are followed, this activity can be a great way for kids and dogs to have fun together! Additionally, always ensure your puppy knows when it’s time to stop playing by using verbal commands like “let go” or “drop it.”
Tag
This game is super easy to play and requires no special equipment. It is an active chase game that can be played indoors or outdoors. The objective is for one person or dog to chase the other person or dog and “tag” them while the other player tries to avoid being tagged. It’s a great way for kids and dogs to engage with each other in a playful activity.
Playing tag with your pup is a great way to encourage them to stay engaged and use their natural instinct of chasing prey while also teaching them basic obedience commands such as come, sit, and stay. You can use verbal commands such as “Can’t catch me!” to get your pooch running after you and add obstacles such as furniture pieces or toys in between you and your pup for additional motivation. During playtime, have your pup practice these commands by having them return to you after they have been tagged, which will help keep them safe while having fun at the same time!
For added fun, you can also use treats during the game as rewards for when your pup successfully tags you (or vice versa). Playing tag is an engaging activity that will help keep your pup active and entertained while strengthening the bond between them and their favorite Hooman!
Tag is a timeless game that provides endless hours of laughter and entertainment for people of all ages – both human and canine – so grab your dog and try it today!
Ball Games
Kids can kick around a soccer ball with their dog while they make up their own rules and objectives. The goal of soccer is to get the ball into the opponent’s goal, but kids can adjust this to fit their own interests – such as running around with their dog in pursuit of the ball!
It doesn’t take much equipment to play soccer with your pet. All you need is some kind of flat surface and an appropriately-sized ball for your child and pup. It’s also important to choose a safe place where there won’t be too many obstacles or hazards that could trip them up or cause an accident. If you don’t have access to a grassy area, try setting up a makeshift pitch on your patio or driveway for hours of kid-dog fun!
Soccer isn’t just about having fun; it’s also a great exercise for both children and dogs. Running after a ball helps keep kids active, as well as develops coordination and agility skills in both them and their furry friends.
Dance Or Run together
When it comes to having fun with kids and dogs, nothing beats dancing or running together! Dancing is a great way to bond and get your heart rate up while enjoying some music. Getting everyone involved in the dance, whether it’s a slow waltz or a lively jig, can exhilarate both the kids and their furry friends. And when the beat gets too fast for the little ones, they can always take a break by twirling around with their pup!
Running together is another great activity that both kids and dogs can enjoy. Kids need exercise too, so having them join in on an outdoor run with their four-legged friend can help them stay fit while having loads of fun. Running together also helps strengthen their bond as they make memories while exploring nature.
Kids need their daily dose of exercise, and so does your dog. Dancing to a tune or running play and catch in the garden can be a great way for both of them to get the movement that their bodies need while having fun at the same time.
Water Games
Summer is a great time for water games; dogs love to play in the water just as much as kids do. If you have a pool, a sprinkler, or even just a hose, kids can have hours of fun with their furry friend.
One game is to throw a toy into the water and have your kid and dog race to see who can retrieve it first. Another game is to set up a kiddie pool and fill it with water and toys. Your kid and dog can splash around and play together. Just make sure to supervise your dog closely and provide plenty of fresh water for them to drink. And if your dog isn’t a strong swimmer, stick to shallow water or invest in a doggy life vest.
Another game is “chase the stream.” Have your child hold a water hose and let your dog chase the water stream around the yard. With these fun water games, your child and their furry friend can stay cool and entertained all summer long.
Obstacle Course
Creating an obstacle course for your kids and their dog is a great way for them to entertain each other. Obstacle course games can be tailored to fit the age of your children, as well as the abilities of their pup. All you need is some basic materials and a bit of imagination!
For younger children, you can set up a simple agility course in your backyard or living room. Set up a few low hurdles and weave poles for them to practice weaving around with their pup. You can even use household items like chairs and hula hoops to create fun jumps and tunnels for them to navigate together. To make it more exciting, time each round or add other obstacles like balance beams or tire jumps!
If you’re feeling crafty, you can create a DIY obstacle course with items like cardboard boxes, pool noodles, hula hoops, and PVC pipes. Consider safety when setting up your course. If you are using sharp objects or large items that could be hazardous for your kids or pup, securely fasten them down and keep them out of reach from little hands. Once your course is ready to go, challenge your kids to race through the course with their furry companion or guide the dog through it using treats as motivation.
Red Light Green Light
Have your child stand on one side of the room or yard and the dog on the other. When the child says “green light,” the dog can move forward, and when they say “red light,” the dog must stop. If the dog moves during a red light, they have to go back to the start.
This game helps reinforce obedience training, and it’s a great way for kids to learn how to give commands to their furry friend. Plus, it’s a fun way for both the child and the dog to get some exercise and burn off energy.
Name the Toy
This game is perfect for kids who want to work on their dog’s obedience skills. First, have your child gather a few of their dog’s favorite toys. Then, place them in a row on the ground and have the child name each one out loud while pointing to it.
The child can also pick up the toy and say its name while encouraging the dog to come and grab it. Once the dog has the toy, have the child repeat the name of the toy a few times. If the dog drops the toy, have your child pick it up and repeat the process. Over time, your dog will learn the names of their toys, and your child will have fun teaching them.
After a few rounds of this, ask the child to give a specific command, such as “fetch the ball,” and see if the dog can correctly choose the correct toy. As the dog gets better at this game, you can increase the difficulty by adding more toys or having your child hide the toys and call out their names for the dog to find.
This game is not only fun for kids and dogs, but it also helps improve the dog’s listening skills and strengthens the bond between the child and their furry friend.
Learning Tricks
What can be more fun than watching your dog perform a trick or follow your commands? Teaching their dog new tricks can be an incredibly rewarding experience and is a great way for kids and dogs to bond.
One of the best ways to get started teaching tricks is with positive reinforcement. Start by rewarding your pup for completing each trick correctly with treats or verbal praise. Then gradually start reducing the treats until your dog is performing the trick without needing any type of reward. Additionally, break up long training sessions into shorter ones so as not to tire out or overwhelm your pup.
Tricks can be broken down into two different categories: stationary and moving. Stationary tricks involve having your pup stay in one spot while performing an action like sitting or lying down on command.
Moving tricks include actions like fetching a ball, jumping over obstacles, or running through tunnels—all of which can be taught using clicker training techniques or hand signals.
Whether it’s a basic skill like sit/stay or more complex movements like weaving between furniture legs in the living room, learning tricks together can bring you closer to your furry companion while also providing them with much-needed mental stimulation and exercise—it’s a win-win situation!
You can teach your pet to do some simple tricks like rolling on the floor or playing dead. You can then teach your kid to practice the same with the dog. Remember to always appreciate your pet for performing the trick with a treat.
Bubbles
Now that your pup has learned some fun tricks let’s move on to bubble fun. Bubbles can be loads of fun for kids and their canine companions, and it doesn’t matter if they’re indoors or outdoors. All you need is a bottle of non-toxic bubble solution and a bubble wand or two, and then you’re ready for some serious bubble fun!
Kids love to blow bubbles and can practice blowing perfect bubbles, and the dog has the added fun of trying to pop them. Create a fun and interactive playtime for your child and furry friend by having them team up to pop bubbles! Some dogs might need some help getting started, so try popping a few bubbles yourself first to get them interested.
It’s sure to provide hours of entertainment, but it’s a great way to get some energy out, a fun summertime activity, and a great opportunity for kids and their furry friends to have some silly fun together.
Just make sure to use a non-toxic bubble solution or make your own and instruct the child to avoid blowing bubbles directly into the dog’s face.
Ballon Toss
Balloon toss is another great interactive game perfect for energetic dogs and kids. Simply inflate a balloon and have your child gently toss it back and forth to the dog to catch with their front paws or nose. Plus, the balloon is much softer than a ball, so there’s less chance of injury.
This game helps build coordination and other important skills like concentration, self-control, problem-solving, and communication. If your dog hesitates to play with the balloon at first, try bouncing it on the ground to get them interested. This game can be played indoors or outdoors and is a great way to bond with your furry friend while getting some exercise.
It’s sure to bring lots of joy to both your child and dog as they play together! Make sure to supervise them while playing to ensure everyone stays safe and happy.
Precautions To Take When Kids And Dogs Play Together
When kids and dogs play together, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure the safety of both parties. As much as we love our four-legged friends, dogs are still animals and need to be treated with respect. Being an animal, certain actions can bring out your dog’s basic animal instincts, even if it’s trained and extremely friendly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Always supervise: Never leave kids and dogs alone together, even for a moment. Dogs can be unpredictable, and even the most well-behaved dog can become agitated or scared around children.
Teach kids how to interact with dogs: Teach them to be gentle with dogs and to avoid pulling their ears, fur, or tails, poking them, or climbing on them. Additionally, kids should be taught to ask the owner’s permission before approaching a strange dog.
Train your dog: It’s important to train your dog to be well-behaved around children. This includes teaching them basic obedience commands like “sit” and “stay,” as well as how to greet children properly without jumping on them.
Provide a safe space for your dog: Dogs need a safe space to retreat to when they feel overwhelmed or need a break. This can be a crate, a bed, or a room that is off-limits to children.
Additionally, consider the age of your pet – some types of activities may not be suitable for senior or young dogs. It’s best to stick to more low-key activities if these apply.
Have separate toys for your kids and dogs, and never give worn-out kids’ toys to dogs, as it can confuse them into thinking that it is okay to play with your kid’s toys.
By taking these precautions, you can ensure that playtime between kids and dogs is safe, fun, and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Concluding Remarks
Incorporating these fun games and activities for kids and dogs can be an enjoyable and enriching way to spend quality time together. These activities can help promote physical activity, create stronger bonds between kids and their furry friends, and provide mental stimulation for dogs.
Whether it’s a game of fetch or simply running together, these activities provide endless opportunities for your kids and dogs to interact, learn, and grow together.
Parents can encourage this relationship by providing a safe and interactive environment for their kids and dogs to play in.
