Fun Brain Games for Oodles and Small Dogs!
If you share your life with an oodle or a small dog, you already know they’re clever little canines! From cavoodles to moodles, schnoodles to spoodles, these fluffy friends love to use their brains just as much as their paws. Keeping your dog mentally stimulated is just as important as physical exercise — and bonus: it can help reduce boredom, destructive habits, and anxious behaviours.
Ready to put that noodle to good use? Here are some of our favourite fun brain games for oodles and small dogs!
The Treat Cup Game
What you need:
3 plastic cups and some tasty treats.
How to play:
- Place a treat under one of the cups while your dog watches.
- Shuffle the cups around.
- Let your pup choose a cup — if they pick the right one, lift it and let them gobble up their prize!
Why it’s great:
This classic game builds focus, memory, and problem-solving skills. Start slow, and as your dog gets better, shuffle faster!
DIY Snuffle Mat
What you need:
A rubber mat (with holes) and strips of fleece fabric.
How to play:
- Tie the fleece strips through the holes to create a shaggy mat.
- Sprinkle kibble or small treats through the fabric.
- Let your dog sniff, snuffle, and search for the goodies!
Why it’s great:
Taps into your dog’s natural foraging instincts and keeps them entertained for ages.
Hide and Seek (Yes — with You!)
How to play:
- Tell your dog to “stay” (or have someone hold them).
- Go hide somewhere in the house.
- Call your dog’s name and let them come find you!
Why it’s great:
It’s a fantastic bonding game that sharpens your dog’s sense of smell and teaches recall in a fun way.
Puzzle Toys & Treat Dispensers
Oodles are known for their smarts — so why not give them a challenge? Invest in interactive puzzle toys or treat-dispensing balls. Fill them with healthy snacks or kibble and watch your dog figure out how to get the treats out.
Why it’s great:
These toys engage your dog’s brain, encourage independent play, and can help slow down fast eaters.
Teach a New Trick
Learning a new trick isn’t just adorable — it’s a brilliant brain workout.
Ideas:
- Spin in a circle
- High five
- Play dead
- Ring a bell for a treat
Why it’s great:
Training uses mental energy and strengthens your bond. Keep training sessions short, positive, and full of rewards!
Bonus Tip: Rotate Toys & Games
Dogs get bored with the same old toys and games. Keep things fresh by rotating activities and introducing new challenges. Even a simple cardboard box maze or a homemade obstacle course can provide hours of fun.
Oodles and small dogs are lively, intelligent, and love a good challenge. Regular brain games keep their minds sharp, bodies active, and hearts happy. Try a few of these at home and watch your clever pup shine!
Got a favourite brain game for your dog? Share it with us in the comments — we’d love to hear it!