Krisztina Rudnay-Peters
Ever watched your dog sniff the same patch of grass like it’s the most important mission on Earth? That’s because, to your pup, sniffing is more than just smelling—it’s thinking, problem-solving, and feeling.
One of my favorite ways to tap into this superpower is a classic dog brain game called Find the Treats.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through:
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What the “Find the Treats” game is
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Why sniffing games are vital for dog mental health
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How to play it (indoors and outside!)
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Real tips from my own experience with my dog
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Common mistakes and how to avoid them
So grab some treats, and let’s get sniffing!
What Is the “Find the Treats” Game?
Find the Treats is exactly what it sounds like—a nose-driven game where you hide treats and let your dog sniff them out.
It taps into your dog’s natural foraging and hunting instincts, turning snack time into a brain-boosting adventure. And the best part? You can do it in almost any environment.
Two Main Ways to Play:
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Indoor Find the Treats
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Hide treats around the room, under pillows, behind doors, under blankets, etc.
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Perfect for rainy days or when you’re stuck indoors.
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Outdoor Find the Treats
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Scatter treats in the grass, around tree roots, under leaves, or even in a snuffle mat at the park.
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Adds scent complexity and real-world enrichment.
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From my experience, I love starting indoors to teach the game, then taking it outside for the full sniff-tastic effect.
Why Sniffing Games Are So Good for Dogs
Alright, time for the good stuff—why this simple game is such a powerful tool for dog mental health and training.
1. Mental Stimulation = A Tired, Happy Dog
You’ve probably heard the saying, “A tired dog is a good dog.” But physical exercise is only half the equation. Mental workouts, like sniffing games, tire your dog out faster than a long walk.
Just 15 minutes of Find the Treats, and my dog is snoring on the couch. Every. Time.
2. Boosts Confidence
This game allows dogs to make decisions on their own in a low-pressure setting. That independence builds confidence, especially in anxious or shy pups.
3. Supports Emotional Well-being
Sniffing reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) and increases dopamine (the “feel good” hormone). It’s legit brain therapy for your dog.
4. Reduces Destructive Behaviors
Bored dogs chew shoes. Engaged dogs chew treats they just found behind the couch. Need I say more?
5. Strengthens Your Bond
When you play with your dog in a way that honors their instincts, they trust you more. It’s like speaking their love language.
How to Play “Find the Treats” Indoors
Let’s break this down into a step-by-step guide. This is how I started the game with my own pup.
What You’ll Need:
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High-value treats (something stinky like liver or cheese works great)
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A quiet space indoors
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Optional: Snuffle mat, cardboard boxes, muffin tin with tennis balls, or towels
Step-by-Step:
1. Start Simple
Let your dog watch you place a treat under a blanket or behind a chair leg. Say your cue:
👉 “Find it!” or “Search!”
Let them go get it and reward with praise.
2. Add Challenge Gradually
Now start hiding treats without them watching.
Places to try:
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Under a rug corner
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On a low shelf
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Tucked in couch cushions
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Inside a cardboard box with a towel on top
Each time, give the cue and let them work it out.
3. Rotate Hiding Spots
Dogs are smart. If you always hide treats in the same place, they’ll catch on quick. Keep it fresh to keep it fun.
4. Make It Interactive
Add layers of difficulty:
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Use a muffin tin with tennis balls covering each cup
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Roll treats in a towel
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Stack boxes with treats inside
Trust me, once your dog realizes they get rewarded for sniffing out snacks, their tail won’t stop wagging.
How to Play “Find the Treats” Outdoors
Once your pup is a sniffing pro indoors, it’s time to level up. Nature adds all kinds of distractions and challenges—perfect for a serious nose workout.
What You’ll Need:
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Treats or kibble
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A grassy area, trail, or backyard
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A long leash (if off-leash isn’t an option)
How To Do It:
1. Scatter Feed
Toss a handful of treats into the grass and say “Find it!” Let your dog sniff around and gobble them up.
This is great for beginners and for feeding meals in a more enriching way.
2. Hide Treats in Natural Spots
Think: tree roots, fallen logs, behind bushes, or under leaves. Walk your dog around and cue them to “Find it!”
3. Use a Snuffle Mat Outside
Yep, you can bring enrichment tools outdoors! Place a treat-filled snuffle mat under a shady tree and let your dog go wild.
4. Try Urban Locations
If you’re city-bound, use planters, sidewalks, or benches. Just make sure the area is safe and clean.
How Often Should You Play?
I like to mix in Find the Treats games 4–5 times a week. Sometimes it’s a 5-minute scatter feed in the yard. Other times it’s a full 20-minute sniffing mission inside the house.
Even once or twice a week makes a huge difference, especially for high-energy or anxious dogs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple game has its pitfalls. Here’s what to watch for:
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Don’t make it too hard too soon. If your dog gets frustrated, they’ll give up.
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Avoid unsafe items. Don’t hide treats in places they might knock over or chew something harmful.
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Don’t rush. Let your dog take their time. Sniffing is the game—not just the treat.
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Skip if your dog’s not feeling well. This is a fun game, not a test.
Sniffing Games and Dog Mental Health: The Bigger Picture
Look, we all want well-behaved, happy dogs. But obedience training alone isn’t enough. Dogs need outlets for their natural instincts, and sniffing games provide exactly that.
According to multiple studies in canine behavior:
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Dogs who engage in sniffing games show fewer signs of stress
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Cognitive enrichment helps reduce problem behaviors in shelter dogs
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Regular scent work enhances focus and attention span
Quick Recap: Why “Find the Treats” Should Be in Your Routine
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Dog brain games like this boost mental stimulation
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Sniffing games are proven to support dog mental health
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It’s easy to play indoors or outdoors, no fancy gear required
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Builds your dog’s confidence and reduces boredom-based behaviors
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Fun for you AND your pup—win-win!
FAQs
Q: How many treats should I use?
A: Depends on the game duration. Use small treats to avoid overfeeding—10–20 small pieces is plenty.
Q: Can I use kibble instead of treats?
A: Absolutely! I often use my dog’s dinner for scatter feeding or snuffle mat time.
Q: Is this good for senior dogs?
A: 100%! Older dogs often lose physical stamina but still crave mental engagement. This is perfect for them.
Q: Can I do this with a reactive or anxious dog?
A: Yes, and it often helps them! Sniffing is naturally calming and confidence-building.
Ready to Start Playing?
The “Find the Treats” sniffing game is one of the easiest, cheapest, and most impactful dog brain games out there. It feeds your pup’s instincts, sharpens their mind, and brings you closer together.
Whether you’re working on behavior, enriching their day, or just trying to keep your dog entertained, this game has it all. Give it a go—you’ll be amazed how much joy a few hidden treats can bring.
So go on… hide some snacks and let the nose games begin! 🐶👃🎉
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