Scent cones for dogs: how to play
Hide a treat under one of several cones or pots spread around the yard. The dog must check each one and stop at the right cone.
- Time
- 10 min
- Energy
- Medium
- Space
- Outdoors
You'll need
- 4 to 8 training cones or upturned flowerpots
- smelly treats
Set up
Space cones about 2 metres apart across the yard. Your dog knows Find it and the box search.
How to play
Start with 3 cones. Put a treat under one while your dog watches.
Say "Find it". When your dog sniffs and stops at the right cone, lift it so they can eat.
Next, hide out of sight. Walk with your dog cone to cone at first if needed.
Add cones in a loose grid. Reward the moment your dog stops and stares or noses the right cone.
Wait for a clear signal, like a sit or a pause with nose on the cone, before you lift it.
Move the grid each session so it stays a nose puzzle, not a memory game.
House rules
- You lift the cone; your dog doesn't knock it over.
- Rinse or swap cones that get food on them so only one smells strongly.
- Make it easier
- Fewer cones close together, with the treat partly visible.
- Make it harder
- More cones, wider spacing, two hides, or a cone placed on a low box.
Signs it's having fun
Methodical searching, a clear stop at the right cone, quick look up at you.
Stop if you see
Your dog knocks cones over in frustration or stops trying.
Safety
Safety- Use soft cones or plastic pots, not ceramic.
- Avoid hot days and hot surfaces.
Sources
Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.
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