Agent 008

“Agent 008” is an innovative dexterity game for dogs. It was developed by My Intelligent Pets and is currently under patent application. The game consists of a wooden frame that the numbers zero, zero and eight (008) have been carved out of to provide openings for pieces of the game (so-called hats) and 5 bricks (3 hats and 2 barrels).The pieces can only be inserted and taken out at two openings, at the left (the first zero) and at the right (the seven). There are three sliders between the numbers which can close or open the openings at the numbers – depending on whether the dog pushes the sliders in the right direction or not.

The game is graded very difficult (4 Paws on the scale of 1 to 4). You can vary the level of difficulty by positioning the sliders appropriately. If the sliders are already attached to the openings by the numbers, the game is easier to solve, but the game becomes more difficult if your dog has to move the sliders to these openings. In addition you can change the level of difficulty with the number of pieces (hats) used.

“Agent 008” is recommended for dogs’ mental activity. As highly intelligent animals they need an appropriate balance to physical activity (walking, running, agility), otherwise their mental abilities are not challenged sufficiently. This can lead to unwanted behaviour by the dog: aggression, separation anxiety, frustration, destructiveness, restlessness or impatience.

This game trains a dog’s concentration and dexterity, and encourages its natural instincts of curiosity, drive to play and sense of smell. Your dog will love you setting up the game, as this gives it the chance to prove itself to you. This will strengthen the bond between you and your dog as well as its self-confidence.

Here's how it works:

• Step 1: Let the dog watch as you set up the game in order to stimulate its curiosity. Hide your dog’s favourite treats beneath the hats. Then move the pieces from the opening on the left-hand side into the appropriate ducts.
• Step2: Encourage your dog to start searching. Be patient and show it how the game works. For instance, you could show it where a treat is waiting for it. This way you can make sure that your dog enjoys playing the game together with you and can solve the task.
• Step3: Initially use only a few pieces and set the game at an easier level (with the ducts at the slider corresponding with the ducts by the numbers). Increase the level of difficulty by adding pieces only when your dog can solve these problems without any difficulty. That way your dog is constantly dealing with new challenges, and the game provides a meaningful and appropriate activity that it enjoys.