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Searching for food: the simplest nose game

Scatter a handful of food and let the dog search – done. This mini-game provides a workout, calms excited dogs and only needs an appetite.

Hardly any game is so simple and works so well: you show your dog a few pieces of food, scatter them on the ground and let it search. The nose immediately becomes active, and your dog is fully occupied for a few minutes. Apart from a bit of an appetite, this needs no prerequisites whatsoever.

How to start

Start easy: several good-smelling treats over a small area, so your dog quickly has success. If it's excited, exactly that helps bring it back down. While searching it lowers its head, breathes more calmly and glances around in a relaxed way. That's why this game is also ideal in new or somewhat exciting places.

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Frequently asked questions

What is “Searching for food: the simplest nose game” about?

Scatter a handful of food and let the dog search – done. This mini-game provides a workout, calms excited dogs and only needs an appetite. Hardly any game is so simple and works so well: you show your dog a few pieces of food, scatter them on the ground and let it search. The nose immediately becomes active, and your dog is fully occupied for a few minutes. Apart from a bit of an appetite, this needs no prerequisites whatsoever.

What else is part of “Searching for food: the simplest nose game”?

Start easy: several good-smelling treats over a small area, so your dog quickly has success. If it's excited, exactly that helps bring it back down. While searching it lowers its head, breathes more calmly and glances around in a relaxed way. That's why this game is also ideal in new or somewhat exciting places.

Does the article “Searching for food: the simplest nose game” replace veterinary advice?

This article is no substitute for veterinary advice. Source: DOGSY editorial team.

Who wrote “Searching for food: the simplest nose game”, and how up to date is the article?

The article comes from the DOGSY knowledge team and is written in plain language. Last updated: 9 July 2026.

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