Dogs need exercise, regardless of the weather. In snow or rain, they still need mental and physical stimulation. That said, there are certainly some days when the weather may be too hot, too cold, or the precipitation too blinding to exercise your dog as you might otherwise like.

On these days, it’s helpful to have on hand a variety of ideas for ways you can provide your dog with adequate physical activity and mental enrichment in the comfort of your own home. Here are a few ideas you may find helpful!

The 9 Ways to Engage Your Dog Indoors

1. Food Dispensing Toys

Food-dispensing toys are invaluable boredom busters. While rubber Kongs are classic toys and can be stuffed with a great variety of treats and tasties, in the last few years, the food dispensing toy market has greatly expanded and there are lots of new and exciting products available.

From Puzzle toys to snuffle mats, and dispensing chewable toys. Choose durable, appropriately sized toys and supervise your dog initially to reduce the risk of choking or ingestion of damaged pieces.

2. Kibble Hunt

If you place your dog’s kibble in a food bowl, chances are the bowl is empty within 15 seconds, and the dog gazes up at you upon finishing as if to say, “Is that it?” You can put that food to work for you by making your dog hunt for it with their nose.

Instead of dumping the food in their bowl, consider placing them in a separate area while you hide small piles of food in the house, then release them to “kibble hunt.” Initially, make the piles very easy to find. As your dog gets better at this game, practice hiding the food in more difficult spots.

3. Tug and Fetch

Tug and fetch are classic dog games that do not require a lot of room. Hallways tend to be great for fetch games, and tug can be played virtually anywhere. Use appropriate toys and stop the game if your dog becomes overly aroused or mouths skin or clothing.

4. Shaping Games

Shaping provides great mental exercise for a dog, and a good shaping session can often tire a dog more than a walk that is two or three times as long. Practicing shaping in lots of short sessions will help tire your dog’s brain and support learning while relieving stress and boredom. Teaching your dog new behaviors is fantastic for their confidence and will make both of you happy!

5. Learning Games

British trainer Kay Laurence has a fantastic book available called “Learning Games.” This fantastic book is chock full of ideas for how to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated while improving their behavior. For more fun ideas from Kay, check out her YouTube channel.

6. Have a Doggie Play Date!

If your dog has a favorite playmate or friend, consider scheduling a rainy-day play date. Before your dog’s pal arrives, be sure to puppy-proof and pick up all breakables and valuables. As you know, dog play can get quite rowdy! Choose play partners with compatible size, play style, and temperament, and supervise interactions to help prevent injury or conflict.

7. Go on a Socialization Outing

If you are unable to take your dog for a walk, consider taking them for a ride and doing a “fun visit” at the vet’s office, where they just go to hang out and get some treats and scratches just for being a great dog. This will provide the added benefit of teaching him that vet visits can be a lot of fun!

8. Play Hide and Seek!

Hide and seek is a great way to exercise your dog’s mind and body, and recall skills. Each family member should stock up on great treats. Family members will take turns hiding throughout the house, calling the dog to them, and rewarding them generously when they arrive. When their treats are finished, say “all done!” which is the cue for the next family member to call them.

9. Nosework

Canine nosework is a great enrichment activity that can be done in your house. All you need to start are some boxes and some great treats! For more information on canine nosework, visit www.funnosework.com.

Conclusion

Now you have lots of ideas, and the next time it starts raining, you can start training!

Featured Image Credit: Catherine Murray, Shutterstock