Senior scent cups for dogs: how to play
Three cups, one treat, nose only. A slow, low-impact brain game sized for older dogs.
- Time
- 5 min
- Energy
- Low
- Space
- Small room
You'll need
- 3 plastic cups or yoghurt pots
- smelly soft treats
- a rug or non-slip mat
Set up
Put a rug down so your dog doesn't slip. Sit on the floor with your dog lying or sitting comfortably.
How to play
Put a treat under one cup while your dog watches. Cups close together, on the rug.
Say "Find it". Lift the cup your dog noses or paws.
Repeat with the treat under a different cup.
Next, hide it without your dog watching. Let the nose do the work.
Play 5 rounds, then a snuggle.
House rules
- Your dog can play lying down.
- Every round ends with a find.
- Make it easier
- Use one cup only, or a stronger smelling treat.
- Make it harder
- Use 5 cups, or spread them a little further apart.
Signs it's having fun
Nose working, gentle tail wag, bright eyes.
Stop if you see
Losing interest, confusion, or getting up and wandering. Rest.
Safety
Safety- Non-slip surface only; seniors slip easily.
- Dogs with dementia can tire fast; stop early.
- Dogs with poor sight: use scent, not sight, so make sure the treat smells strong.
Sources
Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.
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