Kibble Drop: DIY Treat Game for Kids & Dogs

Looking for an activity that blends creativity, problem-solving, and dog fun? Kibble Drop lets children design their very own treat delivery system using cardboard tubes, pipes, and tape. As they build and test their “drain” structure, they’ll discover how cause-and-effect works, all while their pup waits eagerly for the payoff at the bottom.

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WHAT YOU NEED

• Empty paper towel rolls or toilet paper rolls
• Optional reusable alternative: Light PVC pipes
• Any tube-shaped packaging
• Tape
• Kibble, Cheerios, or treats
• A medium, low-profile box or container to catch kibble
• A sturdy step stool, small ladder, toddler tower, or chair
• Optional: A towel, blanket, or dog bed to catch kibble
• Helpful: clothing with pockets so kids can keep treat supplies handy

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‍HOW TO PLAY‍

Step 1. Gather the Materials

Gather all of the tubing supplies you might need and put them into a container for easy access. You can prepare strips of tape so they’re ready for the kids to grab as needed.  

Step 2. Create the Drain Formation 

Have your children tape the empty toilet paper rolls, PVC pipe, or other materials to a height that they can easily reach while standing on a stool or chair. This will serve as the starting point for the kibble drop. Start taping them together in a ‘drain’ formation. Make sure all the pieces line up properly so that the kibble can flow smoothly down the pipes.

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Step 3. Set Up the Catching Container 

Place a box or container at the bottom of the pipes. This is where the kibble or treats will land when dropped.

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Insights from Emme: We like to use a snuffle mat or slow feeder bowl at the bottom for added enrichment and difficulty! 

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Step 4: Test the Drop

Have your child drop a piece of kibble or a Cheerio down the chute. Did it roll all the way through? If not, adjust the angle or retape. Encourage them to experiment until the chute works smoothly.

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Step 5. Drop the Kibble: 

Have your children drop kibble or treats down the drain they’ve created. Watch as your dog tries to catch the falling treats in the box, bowl, or container!

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Feel free to modify the setup or rules to keep the game exciting and engaging for everyone involved. The sillier and more creative, the better!

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‍PRO TIPS‍

• If you have a large dog, build the chute higher so the treats fall from above.

• A cardboard box or wide tray works better than a bowl to prevent kibble from bouncing everywhere.

• If your dog is afraid of the noise of treats falling into a cardboard box or a tray, or is afraid of sticking their head in containers, use a soft surface, like a towel, blanket, or dog bed. 

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Insights from Dominika: This was one of our favorite activities. My husband helped with the taping when our kids were younger, as this part can be a bit tricky. We also discovered Lola’s slow bowl was not the best option, as the treats were bouncing right and left (not that Lola had a problem with that!); a cardboard box contained the treats well. We took the pictures outside, but we did it several times inside. It is a great winter activity!

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More Fun Activities

Love building things for your dog? Try our Kibble Pockets (a DIY treat dispenser with cardboard tubes) activity for another simple at-home challenge.

This game is part of our Kids & Dogs Activity Series