Dog Training ~Enhancing Your Dog's Skills: The Benefits of Scurry Games and Trials for Pet Dog Owners
- Janice Foster
- Sep 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 22
If you’re looking for a way to boost your dog’s skills while having lots of fun, scurry dog games and trials might just be the answer. These engaging activities provide an excellent platform for pet dogs to tap into their natural instincts and abilities. Not only do they help dogs develop essential skills, but they also give pet owners a chance to strengthen their bond with their furry friends. Engaging in scurry games fosters teamwork and creates lasting memories for both dogs and humans.
In this post, we will explore the many benefits scurry games and trials offer. We’ll look at how they enhance your dog’s skills and why they’re an ideal fit for pet dog owners wanting to enrich their dogs' lives.
What Are Scurry Games?
Scurry games are five fun games based on working gun dog skills, each game focuses on a different aspect of gun dog work and allows dogs and owners to grow their skills through 5 levels in each of the games.
Retrieving is an obvious skills and yes, there is a game which builds pet dog retrieving skills through five levels to reach the ability to retrieve an object unseen by the dog, using hand signals to direct your dog to an unseen (blind) retrieve. Generally, dogs find retrieving to be fun, enjoyable and satisfying but don't worry if your dog hasn't yet discovered the joy of retrieving, there are games to develop your dogs ability to pick up and carry items using positive reinforcement.
The other 4 scurry dog games include 'sniffit' which taps into your dogs innate superpower of scent detection. Did you know that your dog has up to 300,000,000 scent receptors which tingle at the thought of following a scent trail?
Nose quest, scramble grid and everyday dog offer the opportunity to build skills such as steadiness, teamwork and listening skills.
Skills Training & Benefits of Scurry Dog Games for Dogs
1. Enhancing Natural Instincts
Scurry Dog games allow dogs to express their natural instincts. Breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Spaniels excel in retrieving tasks. For instance, a working Labrador can retrieve a dummy from the water with a 90% success rate when trained in this way. Scurry dog games build confidence and provide satisfaction by allowing dogs to perform tasks that come naturally to them.
2. Physical Exercise
Scurry games are great physical workouts. Your dog will run, jump, and navigate various obstacles. For example, a 30-minute session in a scurry game can burn off around 200 calories, which is approximately 10% of an average dog’s daily calorie needs. This not only keeps dogs fit and helps manage their weight but also prevents obesity-related health issues.
3. Mental Stimulation
These games are also mentally challenging. Dogs must listen, think fast and make decisions while navigating the course. Engaging in such activities can reduce boredom-related behaviours, which are common in up to 40% of pets who lack mental stimulation.
4. Strengthening the Human-Dog Bond
Scurry games encourage teamwork and communication between you and your dog. Training together helps you understand each other's signals better. A dog that understands its owner tends to be more responsive to cues in everyday life.
Why Scurry Games Are Perfect for Pet Owners
1. Accessibility
Scurry games are open to all dog owners, regardless of skill level. Whether you have an experienced competitor or a playful pup, there are plenty of opportunities to participate. Many local clubs host events that welcome everyone.
2. Socialisation Opportunities
These events attract various dog owners and their pets, creating excellent socialisation opportunities. Interaction with other dogs in a controlled environment helps reduce anxiety and fear. Studies show that well-socialized dogs are less likely to exhibit behavioural problems, with over 60% showing improved confidence after attending group activities.
3. Fun and Enjoyment
At its core, scurry games are fun. Both you and your dog get to enjoy the excitement of learning together, and when you feel ready competing in trials offers a different challenge. This shared experience fosters a deeper connection and leads to lasting memories.
4. Skill Development
Participation in scurry games helps dogs develop critical skills such as cooperation, focus, and cue-following. Studies found that dogs who participate in regular training and activities like scurry games show a 50% improvement in their obedience levels over time.

Wrapping It Up
Scurry dog games and trials provide a unique way for pet owners to enhance their dogs' skills while strengthening their bond. By tapping into their dogs' natural instincts and fostering teamwork, these activities promote a more fulfilling life for both dogs and owners.
Whether you're looking to boost your dog's obedience, provide a fun outlet for their energy, or simply enjoy quality time together, scurry games are an excellent choice. Give it a try—your dog will thank you, and you may uncover a shared passion along the way!
Ready to give it a go?
Join the mailing list at https://pupsandpoochesdogtraining.co.uk to find out more.




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