🧩 This free printable fill-in puzzle prints on a single page. The answer key sits in a small strip at the bottom — fold it backward along the dotted line before you start, and you can solve honestly without ever seeing the solution. Suitable for ages 12+ — no special knowledge needed.
Fit every word from the word bank into the grid. Each word is used exactly once — the longest word has been filled in to get you started.
G
O
L
D
F
I
S
H
3 LETTERS: CAT, DOG
4 LETTERS: BIRD, FISH
5 LETTERS: PUPPY
6 LETTERS: KITTEN, PARROT, RABBIT, TURTLE
7 LETTERS: HAMSTER
8 LETTERS: GOLDFISH ✓
✂ fold backward along this line to hide the solution ✂
Solution hidden on screen — it prints automatically.
Solution
P
U
P
P
Y
R
A
C
A
T
B
I
R
D
B
R
B
G
O
L
D
F
I
S
H
T
O
T
A
G
M
F
I
S
H
T
K
I
T
T
E
N
U
R
R
T
L
E
How to Solve This Fill-In
Fill-in puzzles work backwards from a normal crossword — you have the full word list, and your job is figuring out which slot each word belongs in.
Place the longest words first. With word lengths ranging from 3 to 8 letters here, the longest entries fit far fewer slots in the grid, so lock those in before anything shorter.
Count letters in every blank run. Before guessing, count the empty squares in a run and cross off every word on the list that doesn't match that exact length — it narrows things fast.
Let crossing letters do the work. Once one word is placed, any letter it shares with a crossing run instantly rules out most of the remaining candidates for that run.
There are 11 words on the bank for this puzzle — check them off as you place them so you don't lose track. More strategy in our guide to winning at word games.
About This Puzzle
Pets & Friends is a fill-in (also called a fitword) — every answer is listed for you, and the challenge is fitting all 11 words into their correct spots using crossing letters as your guide. A nicely logical alternative to a standard crossword.