How to Stop Your Dog Hiding Toys

Teach Your Dog to Find Specific Toys

Instead of letting your dog hide toys randomly, redirect that behavior into a fun, structured game. Start by choosing one special toy—call it “Teddy”—that your dog loves. Hold it in front of your dog and let her take it. As she grabs it, say “Teddy” clearly and praise her. Repeat this 2 to 5 times to link the name with the object.

Once your dog connects the word “Teddy” with the toy, place it on the floor out of her reach. Let her move toward it, and say “Teddy” just as she starts to go. This teaches her that the word means “go get this specific toy.” Practice this 2 to 5 times before moving on.

Use Scent to Build Search Skills

Now that your dog knows the name, start hiding Teddy out of sight. Show it to her first—while she’s on a Sit/Stay, tethered, or held by someone—then hide it behind a door or under furniture. Make sure she can’t see it from where she’s standing. Release her and praise her heavily when she finds it.

Don’t give a cue the first time—use it as a test. If she succeeds, repeat the process and then add the cue “Teddy” when you release her. Gradually increase the difficulty by hiding the toy in harder spots, like under cushions or behind furniture. But keep it easy enough that she doesn’t give up. If she struggles, go back to an easier version and praise her for trying.

Train to Ignore Other Toys

Your dog must learn to ignore other toys and focus only on “Teddy.” Place Teddy near one or two other toys on the floor, with Teddy closest to your dog. Say “Teddy” and let her go. If she picks the right one, celebrate with a jackpot—treats, praise, and play. If she picks another toy, look away and don’t accept it. This teaches her that only Teddy counts.

Repeat this 1 to 5 times per session, changing Teddy’s position each time. Over time, she’ll learn to search and pick only the named toy, even when others are nearby. This builds focus and reduces the urge to stash toys randomly.

Make It a Fun, Daily Game

Turn finding “Teddy” into a daily ritual. Hide the toy in different spots around the house and ask your dog to find it. Each success should be a big celebration—praise, treats, and play. This turns searching into a rewarding activity, replacing the instinct to hide toys.

Keep sessions short (1–5 repetitions) and take breaks. After a few minutes, warm up with an easier version before trying harder hides. This prevents frustration and keeps your dog eager to play.

Avoid Helping—Let Her Solve It

Never help your dog find the toy. If you do, she learns that giving up is okay and that you’ll fix it. This weakens her problem-solving skills and encourages hiding behavior. Let her search, even if it takes time. Praise effort, not just success. Over time, she’ll become confident and focused on finding the right toy.