I promise you that this is the last post for a while that has any hint of Easter in it! If you follow us on Facebook, then you may have seen our video of Athena playing a new nosework game last week.
Much like the ever popular muffin tin and tennis ball game, we came up with a nosework game using a muffin tin and plastic eggs. We don't play the muffin tin game with tennis balls because Athena is a bit too ball obsessed for that, so this is a great alternative.
Here's what you need to play:
- A standard sized muffin tin (check your local thrift store for a good deal on these!)
- 12 large plastic Easter egg bottoms (you can use the tops or bottoms, but we found that the bottoms make the game a bit more difficult)
- Tasty treats and/or kibble!
How to play:
- Fill each muffin cup with kibble and treats. You can use as little or as much as you'd like depending on if you're feeding your dog a meal with the game, or simply offering them an "afternoon snack." I did this step in front of Athena so that she knew what she would be working for.
- Cover each muffin cup with the bottom of a plastic egg. The large sized plastic eggs fit perfectly snug inside the muffin cups.
- Place the muffin tin on the floor and release your dog to "find it!"
Athena LOVES to play this game because she LOVES to sniff! It's a great mental workout for her and allows us a bit of a break during the day if Athena is begging for something to do. When Athena's done with the game, she's definitely ready for an afternoon nap!
Here's a video of Athena's first attempt at the muffin tin and plastic egg nosework game:
Of course, if you suspect that your dog may now have as gentle of a mouth as Athena with the plastic eggs, we highly recommend you try the muffin tin and tennis ball game for some great nosework!
Check out these other brain workin' games:
Another GREAT idea! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteGreat game! Athena is such a smart girl!
ReplyDeleteso great! What a wonderful idea. we've been trying to incorporate some nose work stuff into the pooches activities... this is a great one!
ReplyDeleteHmm... this looks like something a certain Miss M would like. Though does it count as nosework if she figures out how to upend the entire thing just to get to the treats?
ReplyDeleteThe video of this on FB was so cute. I did the tennis ball version of this with my dogs - one cup also had a filled kong on it. The first time it took them 1/2 hour to eat their dinner it was great! But then they had it all figured out and it was done in about 10 minutes. Maybe I will try the egg version.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea! I think Moby would probably just pick it up and turn the whole thing over, but Rufus would totally enjoy it!
ReplyDeleteMaggie and Nigel looooved the egg hunt (well, Nigel needed special help FINDING the eggs but Maggie is always a faster learner). We definitely need to give this one a try!! Love the new look!!
ReplyDeleteYou are going to motivate me to try one of these activities eventually! Your step by step instructions and pictures are always great.
ReplyDeleteYou are so creative! Love the DIY ideas & instructions. Athena is adorable! :)
ReplyDeleteOf course, if you suspect that your dog may now have as gentle of a mouth as Athena with the plastic eggs, we highly recommend you try the muffin tin and tennis ball game for some great nosework! chamilia chile , chamilia germany
ReplyDelete