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Game-based training is a simple way to teach your dog some simple life skills and keep their brain entertained at the same time, important skills whilst having fun playing games with a purpose.
Each game targets a specific behaviour or response whilst helping your dog learn through repetition, movement, and fun.
If you’ve ever struggled to get your dog to listen, especially when distracted, game-based training can help.
What Is Game-Based Training?
Game-based training uses short, structured games to teach behaviour.
Each game is built around a goal, like:
- Coming when called
- Staying calm around distractions
- Ignoring food on the floor
- Walking nicely on lead
- Coping with being alone
Instead of giving your dog a command and hoping for the best, you build the skill gradually.
The game makes the behaviour rewarding for your dog.
This leads to better focus, faster learning, and more reliable results.
Why Does Game-Based Training Work?
Dogs learn best through experience.
They also learn best when they’re not stressed.
Games:
- Create a positive learning environment
- Keep sessions short and engaging
- Help you spot what your dog needs to practise
- Give your dog a chance to succeed without pressure
ONE OF THE BIGGEST PROBLEMS PEOPLE SAY THEY HAVE is that their dog is bad at recall/ Well, you need to become as secretive as a squirrel and make them want to come back to you, and this can be done via games
What Kind of Games Can You Use?
You don’t need fancy tools or lots of space.
Here are some easy games I use in training sessions:
1. Middle
Teach your dog to come and stand between your legs.
It gives them a safe place to go.
It builds recall, confidence, and calm focus in busy places.
You can see the game here
2. Food Chaser
This game can help teach recall and can be great for distracting your dog.
Throw a bit of food a short distance.
Once your dog gets it, call them back and reward them again.
This builds fast returns and makes recall fun.
3. Find It
This is a great game to distract your dog, and I have used it very successfully combined with clicker training. Toss food into the grass and ask your dog to sniff it out.
This lowers arousal, boosts focus, and builds calm around distractions.
It’s a great reset game during walks.
4. Boundary Games
Teach your dog to stay on a mat or bed.
Use it during meals, visitors, or on a call.
It helps build impulse control and settles excitable dogs.
5. Figure of Eight
Use food or toys to guide your dog around your legs in a figure of eight.
It’s simple but builds body awareness, focus, and calm movement.
What Problems Can Games Help With?
Game-based training isn’t only for puppies or new dogs.
It’s also useful if your dog:
- Pulls on the lead
- Barks at people or dogs
- Struggles to settle
- Jumps up at visitors
- Ignores recall when distracted
- Gets overexcited in new places
Instead of trying to stop the behaviour directly, you build the skills your dog is missing.
That might be calmness, focus, or self-control.
Games help your dog practise those skills in small steps.
How I Use Games in Real Life
When I work with clients, I often start with two or three simple games. Hand targeting and drunk walking are my favourites.
I watch how their dog responds and adjust as needed.
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How to Get Started
You don’t need to play 10 games a day.
Pick one or two.
Play them for a few minutes at a time.
Stay consistent.
End the game before your dog loses interest.
Watch how your dog responds and notice what they find easy or hard.
That will guide what to practise next
Ready to Try Game-Based Training?
Ask yourself:
- What behaviour do I want to improve?
- What skill does my dog need to learn first?
- How can I break that down into a game?
Start small.
Keep it fun.
Build the skill before expecting it in real life.
If you’re unsure where to begin, I’m happy to help you choose the right games for your dog. So get in touch today.