Pet Play GuideScent work for dogs ↗
Begin searches with easy-to-find food or a valued toy and increase difficulty gradually.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Set up a first sniff-and-search game
Start with a source you can follow.
Public animal welfare advice used in Pet Play Guide. Short research notes are paired with links to the original pages; research notes link back to original advice. Photographs have their own credits and license records.
These organisations are independent sources, not partners or endorsers of this site. Some linked pages contain broader topics than the everyday-care scope of our own guides. See photograph credits separately.
Enrichment for dogs ↗
Enrichment includes social, sensory and environmental opportunities. Consider individual preferences and rotate activities.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Set up a first sniff-and-search game, Make the first puzzle easier than you think, A play log that helps you choose the next game
Cats and play ↗
Use toys rather than fingers, allow catches, rotate options, and store string toys after supervised use.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: A cat wand game with a reachable finish, A play log that helps you choose the next game
Cat body language ↗
Interpret posture in context; ears, tail and movement together are more informative than a single signal.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: A cat wand game with a reachable finish
How to play with your dog ↗
Match toys to play style and size, inspect for loose parts, keep play reachable, and avoid excessive repetitive fetch.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Build a tug game around an easy exchange
How to train your dog to leave it ↗
Teach releasing through a fair exchange; teach leaving an item before the dog picks it up.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Build a tug game around an easy exchange
Enrichment activities to keep your dog entertained ↗
Offer varied opportunities to sniff, play and explore; include rest and supervise toys that can break apart.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Create an indoor menu with different kinds of play
Our guide to indoor cats ↗
Indoor life requires opportunities for play, climbing, hiding, scratching and access to essential resources.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Create an indoor menu with different kinds of play
Cat food puzzles ↗
Simple food puzzles can provide foraging opportunities; begin with an accessible task.
Public advice page · Checked October 16, 2026
Used in: Make the first puzzle easier than you think