Training Tip: Teaching Your Dog How to “Find It” 

Most dogs use their amazing sense of smell to their advantage.  They can often track everything from a dead mouse in your yard to some food you left unattended in the kitchen.  This ability to nose out interesting smells can be channeled into a constructive skill with some simple training.  This is where “Find it” comes into play.  This is a quick game which helps nervous or timid dogs to relax around new people or unfamiliar situations.

This activity can also help your dog channel excess energy or calm themselves when greeting visitors.  “Find it” can also provide mental stimulation by encouraging your dog to work for his meals and treats, which mimics the hunting his ancestors would have done.  Now for the fun part….let’s teach you how to “find it”!

The first steps are to give your dog a signal or cue – “find it!” and immediately toss a desirable treat or favorite toy.  Start easy by tossing the treat or toy on a flat open area.  There is a chance that your dog may not understand what you are asking for.  If this is the case, help them out by pointing to the item.  When your dog finds the item, be sure to give praise and reward!  Once your dog understands the activity, you can increase the difficulty and make the task for challenging.  Rather than one treat, toss several.  Try playing “find it” in a grassy area with slopes.  This will add additional exercise as well.

As you can see, “find it” can be great for mental and physical stimulation.  This is an activity in which your dog can enjoy while exercising and obtaining rewards.  It’s a win-win in our book!