Easter isn’t just for humans – it can be a fun and bonding time for your furry friends too.
A dog-friendly Easter egg hunt is a great way to engage your pup’s natural sniffing instincts, provide mental stimulation, and create an exciting bonding experience.
Below, our Pointer experts have explained how to create a fun hunt for your dog this spring. Get those noses ready!
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Choose the Right Location
- When planning your dog’s Easter egg hunt, choose a safe and enclosed space like a fenced garden or secure indoor area.
- Ensure there are no hazards such as sharp objects, toxic plants, or busy roads nearby. If you’re hosting the hunt at a park, make sure it’s a dog-friendly area where your pup and friends can explore safely.
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Pick the Right Treats
- Select treats that your dog loves and that are safe for them to eat. For the perfect Easter treat, our ne are the best choice for a delicious and nutritious reward!
- Use small, bite-sized dog treats, pieces of cooked meat, or even hide a favourite toy instead of food.
- Chocolate is extremely toxic to dogs, so be extra careful to keep all chocolate Easter eggs out of reach. Educate guests about the dangers of chocolate to dogs to prevent accidental ingestion.
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How and Where to Hide
- When setting up the Easter egg hunt, choose hiding spots that encourage your dog to use their nose without making it too difficult.
- Good locations include behind flowerpots, under small piles of leaves, inside cardboard boxes, or tucked behind furniture. Avoid placing treats in areas that could be dangerous, such as near sharp objects or small spaces where your dog could get stuck.
- You can use plastic eggs with holes (to allow scent to escape), small paper bags, or fabric pouches to hide treats. Just make sure whatever you use is safe and easy for your dog to open or for you to assist them in retrieving the treat.
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Avoid Overfeeding
Even though it’s exciting to watch your pup find all their Easter treats, be mindful not to overfeed them. Spread out the treats in small portions so your dog can enjoy the game without consuming too many treats. If you’re using your dog’s regular food for them to hunt out, consider reducing their meal portion accordingly.
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Teach Your Dog the ‘Find It’ Cue
- To prepare for the Easter egg hunt, teach your dog the ‘Find It’ command.
- Start by placing a treat on the ground and saying, ‘Find it!’. As your dog catches on, gradually make it more challenging by hiding treats in different spots, such as under cushions or in your hand.
- This training will help them understand the game when the real hunt begins.
Most importantly, have fun! The most important part of the Easter egg hunt is to enjoy it. Take lots of pictures, cheer your dog on, and celebrate their finds. It’s a great way to create special memories with your pet while providing them with mental enrichment and physical activity.
With these tips, your dog will have an exciting and safe Easter egg hunt. Happy Easter from Pointer Pet Products!
To find more ways to create exciting bonding opportunities with your pup, head to our blog page
