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Looking for fun ways to keep your kids and dog entertained together? You’re in the right place. Children can form a strong bond with dogs without needing to interact physically. In fact, activities that safely involve them both are THE BEST way to build a positive relationship.
The activities we’ve put together are designed to fit into real life, whether you only have five minutes indoors or a free afternoon outside. Not only do these activities give your dog mental and physical exercise, but they also help children build confidence, empathy, and responsibility. Most importantly, they create sweet memories (and great pictures and videos!) for the whole family.
Research shows that children who interact with dogs often experience enhanced emotional well-being and social skills. In fact, studies show that children with pets are more likely to exhibit empathy and lower levels of stress.
Let’s dive into 15+ safe, fun, and practical ideas that entertain kids and dogs - tried and tested by the Dog Meets Baby children and dogs.
Important Safety Note: All activities require adult supervision.
Follow these safety guidelines:
We’ve separated the activities into:
1. Family Storytime
Storytime with your dog is a good bonding activity because it is predictable, and the child is predictably calm, in your lap or cuddled next to you. Many dogs love story time as part of their daily or bedtime routine. Once your child can read (or knows the story by heart), you can also have your child read to your dog.
Parents love Lola and the Bubble Mission, my first children's book is available now. It’s fun, adventurous, and educational, while reinforcing calm behavior and respect around dogs.
Get the supplies:
2. Draw or Paint Pictures for Your Dog
Kids can color, paint, or even craft portraits of their pup. A creative way to practice fine motor skills and celebrate their furry friend. It encourages artistic expression while strengthening their bond with their furry friends.
Get the supplies:
Easel Paper Roll | Large Crayons | Washable Markers | Construction Paper | Cute Dog Coloring Book | Puppy Life Coloring Book
3. Kibble Pockets
Looking for a creative way to engage your dog using items you already have at home?
This DIY activity turns empty paper towels or toilet rolls into a fun treat dispenser! It provides mental stimulation while encouraging play and exploration, and it’s a great way to practice counting skills. Kids will love making them, and dogs will love destroying them. Win-win.
Get the supplies:
Treats | Toddler Bowls | Unbreakable Tumblers
4. Clean the Dog's Toys
Set up a splashy soap-and-water station for washing toys and bowls - it’s sensory play with a purpose. This activity teaches responsibility and turns chores into a fun game!
Get the supplies:
SodaPup Honeycomb eMat | SodaPup Bones eMat | Dish Brush | Collapsible Wash Basin
Looking for more puzzle toys?
Read our most popular blog post: Best Puzzle Toys for Dogs When You’re Busy With Baby
5. Frozen Feast
Kids mix and freeze dog-safe ingredients (such as yogurt, pumpkin, or wet food) into homemade pup-sicles. This simple project allows children to get creative in the kitchen using dog-friendly ingredients to whip up delicious snacks. A perfect summer activity.
Get the supplies:
Liquid Pipettes Droppers | Craft Trays | Puppy Dog Paw and Bone Silicone Molds | Easy-Release and Flexible Ice Cube Trays | WOOF Starter Pack
Do your kids enjoy baking?
You can find our homemade sardine treats recipe here.
6. Puzzle Toy Fill
Get hands-on in the kitchen as kids stuff puzzle toys like Kongs with tasty fillings. This fun project keeps dogs entertained while teaching children valuable skills as they measure, mix, and assemble the toys.
Get the supplies:
KONGS Peanut Butter | Puzzle Toys | Treats | Toddler Bowls | Kid Safe Knife Set | Unbreakable Tumblers
7. Kibble Trace
Kids create drawings, tape them to the floor, and decorate their artwork with kibble or treats. Then it’s time to invite the dog to enjoy a playful, edible art gallery! It’s a great activity to practice some number and letter recognition too.
Get the supplies:
Easel Paper Roll | Large Crayons | Washable Markers | Painter's Tape | Treats
8. Wrapping Paper Chute
Kids use a wrapping paper roll and become “treat delivery experts,” sending yummy snacks zooming down the chute to their dog’s bowl or bed. It’s a silly, safe, and tail-wagging way to feed their furry friend!
Get the Supplies:
Treats | Toddler Bowls | Snuffle mat
9. Toilet Paper Jump
Put any extra rolls of toilet paper to use by building a wall for your dog and child to jump over. As they get better at it, add another layer… and then another. How high can they jump? Expect a lot of laughter.
Get the supplies:
10. Bobbing for Toys
Who says bobbing for apples is just for humans? Dogs get a splashy game while kids learn which toys sink or float. A refreshing activity to stay cool in the summer, and it’s great if you have a water loving dog.
Get the supplies:
Jolly Egg | Soccer Ball Floating-Bouncing Dog Toy | Boomer Ball | Roller Dog Toy | Storage Tub
11. Simon Says - Train Your Dog, Train Your Kid
Want a fun way to train your dog and engage your child? Try playing "Simon Says"! This classic game entertains while teaching important commands and listening skills.
Get the supplies:
Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat | Yoga Mat for Kids
12. Hoop Jump!
An exciting activity that blends fun with training! All you need is a hoop and some treats or a favorite toy. Teach your dog to jump through a hoop with your child as the cheerleader or assistant trainer. Fun, teamwork-driven, and a confidence booster.
Get the supplies:
Hoola Hoop for Kids | Foam Hoop Holders | Large Agility Training Rings
13. Kibble Search
Hide kibble under cups or cones and let your dog sniff them out. Kids set it up, give the cue, and cheer on the search.
Get the supplies:
Treats | Stacking Toys| Cones | Cups
14. Obstacle Course
Build a course with cones, tunnels, hoops, or even a table to crawl under. Burns energy and encourages teamwork between kids and dogs.
Get the supplies:
Pop Up Play Tunnel | Dog Obstacle Course | Yoga Mat for Kids
15. Kibble Drop
Children design their very own treat delivery system using cardboard tubes, pipes, and tape. This activity sparks imagination and teaches children how cause-and-effect works, and provides an exciting game for dogs who love treats falling their way. Fun for the whole family, it is one of our favorite activities!
Get the supplies:
Slo Bowl | Painter's Tape | Storage Box | Utility Box | Treats | Toddler Bowls
16. Foil River
All you need is a roll of foil and a small slope to build a “river” so the children can send kibble, fruit, or toys floating downstream. It’s part craft project, part water play, one of our favorite summer activities.
Get the supplies:
Utility Box | Treats | Toddler Bowls
Links to key items that work across multiple activities:
Choose an activity that matches your space, your child’s age, and the time you have available.
Start with one activity this week and see how you, your child, and your dog like it.
Indoor activities for cold or rainy/snowy days- Kibble search, kibble drop, and kibble pockets are our favorites.
When my children were very little, cleaning the toys was a big hit.
The foil river, toilet paper jump, and hoop jump always made everyone laugh.
Wrapping paper chute might be a good one to start during the gift packing season.
Safe spot markers to give a child a place to wait their turn
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Online resources to help your baby and dog get along—right from the start and as they grow up together.
