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:
