What is Scurry Dog?
- scurrydoguk
- Jul 21
- 5 min read
What Is Scurry Dog? A Fun and Engaging Activity for You and Your Dog
Ever wish you could find an activity that’s just as fun for your dog as it is for you? One that burns off their energy, taps into their natural instincts, and strengthens your bond—all without the pressure of formal obedience or competition? That’s exactly what Scurry Dog is all about.
Scurry Dog is an exciting blend of gundog-inspired games designed for everyday pet dogs and their owners. Whether you're a dog trainer looking for something fresh to offer clients, or a pet owner wanting to explore new ways to engage with your dog, Scurry Dog brings structure, play, and enrichment together in a completely accessible way.
In this blog, we’ll explore exactly what Scurry Dog is, how it works, the benefits it offers both dogs and humans, and how you can get involved—either through upcoming taster workshops or by becoming a certified instructor.
What Is Scurry Dog? A Game-Based Approach to Canine Enrichment
At its heart, Scurry Dog is a fun, inclusive way to introduce your dog to gundog-style activities, without the intensity or formality of traditional field training. It’s designed for pet dogs of all breeds—not just the typical working gundogs—and for handlers of all skill levels.
So, what exactly does it involve? Scurry Dog revolves around five core games that are rooted in natural canine behaviours:
1. Retrieve
A classic game that taps into your dog’s chase and return instincts. Dogs learn to focus, follow cues, and bring back items—whether it’s a dummy, toy, or other object.
2. Nose Quest
Engaging your dog’s superpowered sense of smell, this game is all about using scent to find hidden items. It builds patience, focus, and confidence.
3. Everyday Dog
This practical game blends basic training with real-life scenarios, encouraging calmness and self-control in different environments.
4. Sniffit Trail
A guided scent trail where dogs must follow a specific path using their nose—great for mental stimulation and problem solving.
5. Scramble Grid
A mix of movement and control where dogs navigate a grid with various commands—perfect for energy release and teamwork.
Each game is simple to set up, scalable to different skill levels, and can be played in your garden, a local park, or even indoors. The emphasis is always on fun, encouragement, and progress.
Scurry Dog also features a structured, colour-coded progression system where both handlers and dogs can earn points and collect badges as they develop their skills. It’s a rewarding way to track progress and stay motivated, whether you're aiming for personal milestones or looking to build towards instructor status. Think of it like doggy martial arts belts—everyone starts at their level and moves up through positive, play-based learning.
Whether your dog is ball-obsessed, nose-driven, or still figuring it all out, there’s a game that will suit them—and help them thrive.
Why Try Scurry Dog? The Benefits for You and Your Dog
Scurry Dog isn’t just about games—it’s a gateway to a more connected, confident, and well-rounded dog. Whether your pup is full of beans, easily distracted, or just needs a new outlet, this activity offers a wide range of benefits that go beyond just having fun.
Mental and Physical Enrichment
Dogs love to work their brains just as much as their bodies. The variety of Scurry Dog games keeps things interesting and taps into natural instincts like chasing, sniffing, retrieving, and staying calm under pressure. It’s the kind of play that leaves dogs tired, happy, and fulfilled.
Mental stimulation through scent work and problem-solving
Physical exercise in short, energetic bursts
A mix of focus and freedom, tailored to each dog’s needs
Strengthens the Bond Between Dog and Handler
The beauty of Scurry Dog is that it’s always a team effort. Every game is designed to build communication and trust between you and your dog. Whether it’s a successful retrieve or a patient “wait,” these moments strengthen your relationship.
Handlers often find their dogs become more responsive, connected, and relaxed—not just during Scurry Dog, but in everyday life too.
Accessible and Inclusive for All Dogs
You don’t need a pedigree working dog or professional training background to get involved. Scurry Dog is open to:
All breeds, from spaniels to schnauzers
Dogs of all ages and fitness levels
Handlers with no prior gundog experience
It’s the ideal low-pressure entry point into dog sports or structured enrichment—especially for pet owners who want to do “a bit more” with their dog but aren’t sure where to start.
Clear Progression and Recognition
The badge and points system adds a rewarding structure to your training journey. It’s not competitive, but it ismotivating. As you and your dog improve, you earn recognition that builds confidence and pride on both ends of the lead.
Which game do you think your dog would love most? Try them out and see their eyes light up—you might be surprised by what they enjoy!
How to Get Started with Scurry Dog
If Scurry Dog sounds like something your dog would enjoy (and let’s be honest, how could they not?), getting involved is simple, flexible, and welcoming—no matter where you are on your dog training journey.
Join a Taster Workshop
Curious to try it out before committing? Our Scurry Dog taster workshops are the perfect starting point. Held in a relaxed and friendly environment, these sessions give you and your dog a chance to experience each of the five core games with guidance from certified instructors.
Ideal for pet owners and trainers alike
No experience or special equipment required
Suitable for all breeds, ages, and abilities
These workshops are designed to build confidence, spark interest, and help you discover which games your dog loves most. They're also a great opportunity to meet like-minded owners and dogs who are just as keen to play and learn.
Become a Scurry Dog Instructor
If you're a trainer or dog professional looking to expand your services, Scurry Dog offers a comprehensive Instructor Course starting this September. It’s a brilliant way to introduce something new to your clients, boost engagement, and add value to your business.
Learn how to teach and assess the five Scurry Dog games
Gain access to structured training plans, resources, and support
Become part of a growing national community of Instructors
Whether you're running classes, one-to-ones, or community events, the Scurry Dog framework gives you a versatile toolkit to engage both dogs and handlers in a unique, positive way.
What You’ll Need to Begin
One of the best things about Scurry Dog is its simplicity. You don’t need a huge training space or fancy equipment to get started. A few open areas, a handful of items (like dummies, scent pots, or markers), and a playful mindset are all it takes.
We provide support, guidance, and resources to help you along the way—whether you're joining as a participant or training to become an Instructor.
Ready to give it a go? Sign up for a workshop or register your interest in the instructor course and be part of something fun, fulfilling, and genuinely dog-friendly.
Let the Games Begin!
Scurry Dog is more than just a set of activities—it’s a fresh, engaging way to build a better relationship with your dog through play, structure, and shared success. Whether you're a dog owner looking to try something new or a trainer wanting to offer more to your clients, Scurry Dog meets you where you are and helps you grow together.
With games that challenge the mind and body, a progression system that rewards effort, and a community that supports every step, it’s the perfect blend of fun and function. And the best part? Any dog can join in.
Ready to get started?
Book your place on an upcoming taster workshop and discover your dog’s favourite game.
Thinking of becoming an Instructor? Register now for the September course and take Scurry Dog into your local community.
Visit scurrydog.com to learn more and secure your spot today.
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