Dunkin the Dog: A Tic-Tac-Toe Adventure

In a delightful video that has captured the hearts of dog lovers everywhere, Dunkin the dog shows that games aren’t just a human pastime. Shared by the charming Haley Deecken on her @haleyandthepets account, this video has become an internet sensation, amassing 1.6 million likes and countless smiles.

The scene opens with a simple tic-tac-toe board laid out on a bed, as Haley enthusiastically asks Dunkin if he's ready to play. Dunkin, however, is initially more captivated by his favorite plush toy. It's a tug-of-war of attention as Haley gently coaxes him to focus on the game. When Dunkin finally decides to participate, he eagerly places an X on the board.

As the game progresses, Dunkin's attention wavers, especially when a fish tank across the room catches his eye. Haley humorously suggests a "fish time" break, allowing Dunkin a moment of aquatic distraction before returning to their playful rivalry.

Despite the distractions, Dunkin manages to place another X, although his commitment to the game is still no match for the allure of the plush toy. With promises of a post-game reward, Haley encourages her furry friend to finish strong. But just as they near the finish line, Dunkin mistakenly positions his final X in the wrong spot, handing Haley the victory.

In a spirited reaction to losing, Dunkin attempts to rectify his move, only to be reminded that rules are rules. His response? A bark of defiance and a swift paw swipe that sends the board flying. Haley's caption humorously notes Dunkin's "overwhelmed" state, a sentiment echoed by amused viewers who praised his lively spirit and intelligence. Mental stimulation games like these are great for dogs — our Training Guide has more ideas for keeping your pup's brain active. Whether it's the bite marks on the game pieces or the strategic board flip, Dunkin's antics prove that even in defeat, he’s a winner in the hearts of many. The AKC recommends brain games as an excellent way to bond with and challenge your dog.

The Science Behind Dogs and Games

Dunkin's tic-tac-toe adventure is more than just entertainment — it highlights something that animal behaviorists have long emphasized: dogs need mental stimulation just as much as physical exercise. According to research cited by the AKC, regular mental challenges can reduce anxiety, curb destructive behavior, and even slow cognitive decline in aging dogs.

When dogs engage in structured games with their owners, their brains release dopamine — the same feel-good neurotransmitter that activates during play, training, and problem-solving. This is why dogs like Dunkin become so animated during games: they are genuinely enjoying the mental challenge, even if they do not fully understand the rules. The key is that they are engaged, focused, and interacting with their favorite person.

Interactive games also strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners in ways that passive activities cannot. When you play a game that requires turn-taking and attention, you are essentially having a two-way conversation with your dog. This builds trust, improves impulse control, and teaches your dog to look to you for direction — all foundational skills that carry over into everyday obedience.

Brain Games You Can Try at Home

You do not need a tic-tac-toe board to give your dog a mental workout. Here are some accessible brain games that any dog can enjoy:

• The cup game: Place a treat under one of three cups, shuffle them, and let your dog find it. This builds problem-solving skills and nose work ability.
• Hide and seek: Have someone hold your dog while you hide, then call them. This strengthens recall and is exciting for dogs of all ages.
• Puzzle feeders: Instead of serving meals in a regular bowl, use a puzzle feeder or scatter food in a snuffle mat. This turns mealtime into enrichment. Check out our Product Research tool to find highly rated puzzle toys.
• New trick sessions: Teaching even simple tricks like "spin" or "touch" for 10 minutes provides intense mental stimulation. Our Training Guide has step-by-step instructions for dozens of tricks.

When Play Goes Wrong

Dunkin's board flip at the end of the game is hilarious, but it also illustrates an important point: dogs can become frustrated or overstimulated during games. Watch for signs like excessive mouthing, barking, or inability to settle after play. If your dog gets too wound up, end the session calmly and give them a chance to decompress. The goal is to finish games on a positive note, ideally with a successful moment before stopping.

Whether your dog is a tic-tac-toe champion or prefers a simple game of fetch, the most important thing is that you are spending quality time together. Use our Daily Bonding Regimen to build regular game time into your routine.