When the weather isn’t on your side or you’re looking for ways to keep your dog entertained indoors, knowing fun, engaging, and mentally stimulating activities can be a lifesaver. From interactive games to brain-teasing puzzles, these indoor activities for dogs will keep their minds sharp, their bodies active, and their spirits high. Let’s dive into the top 35 indoor activities to try with your dog!
1. Hide and Seek with Treats
Dogs love a good scavenger hunt! Hide small treats around the house and encourage your dog to sniff them out. This game taps into their natural foraging instincts.
2. Tug of War
A simple game of tug of war with a strong, dog-friendly rope toy is a great way to burn energy indoors. It also strengthens your bond with your pet.
3. Puzzle Toys
Invest in dog-friendly puzzle toys that dispense treats as they solve it. These toys keep them mentally engaged and reward them for problem-solving.
4. Teach New Tricks
Training sessions aren’t just for puppies! Teach your dog new commands, such as “roll over” or “play dead.” It’s a fun way to keep their brains active.
5. Staircase Fetch
If you have stairs, use them to play a game of fetch. It’s an easy way for your dog to get exercise while indoors.
6. DIY Obstacle Course
Set up a mini obstacle course using household items like pillows, blankets, or even chairs. Guide your dog through, and watch them learn the course!
7. Doggy Dance Party
Put on some upbeat music and dance with your dog! Many dogs enjoy dancing with their owners, and it’s a fun activity for both of you.
8. Shell Game
Hide a treat under one of three cups, mix them up, and let your dog sniff out the treat. This game sharpens their focus and sense of smell.
9. Interactive Laser Pointer Game
Safely use a laser pointer to create a fun chase game indoors. Just make sure to end the game by letting them “catch” the light with a treat or toy.
10. Stuffed Kongs or Treat Dispensers
Stuff a Kong toy with peanut butter or kibble and let your dog work to get it out. It’s great for mental stimulation and reduces boredom.
11. Indoor Fetch with Soft Toys
Fetch isn’t just for the park! Use soft toys to play an indoor version that’s perfect for rainy days.
12. Nose Work Classes Online
Enroll in a nose work class online where your dog can learn to identify scents. It’s a unique and stimulating indoor activity that keeps them mentally engaged.
13. Scent Work Game
Hide a piece of your dog’s favorite treat in a small box and cover it with a cloth. Let them use their nose to find the hidden treat.
14. Learn Dog Yoga (Doga) Together
Doga, or dog yoga, is a bonding activity that calms both you and your dog. Try some simple poses that involve stretching together.
15. DIY Doggie Spa Day
Create a calming environment for a doggie spa session with gentle brushing, pet-safe oils, and a nice belly rub.
16. Interactive Touch Training
Teach your dog to tap or touch specific objects like a ball, a mat, or a light-up button. This is an excellent way to keep them entertained and obedient.
17. Play Fetch with a Laser Toy
Laser fetch can be a safe indoor option, especially in open spaces. It’s high-energy but doesn’t require much running space.
18. Home Movie Night
Settle down with your dog’s favorite treats and a dog-friendly movie. Movies with animals often get a fun reaction from our furry friends.
19. Dog-Safe Baking
Get dog-safe ingredients and bake together! There are easy recipes for dog-friendly cookies or peanut butter treats you can enjoy making with them.
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20. Obstacle Course with Toys
Use different dog toys as part of a mini obstacle course. Place them around your space and encourage your dog to interact with each item.
21. Interactive Ball Launchers
For dogs who love to play fetch, an indoor ball launcher can be a fantastic way to keep them entertained.
22. Towel Puzzle for Treats
Place treats under a towel and let your dog use their paws and nose to find them. This is an easy, low-cost way to keep your dog engaged.
23. Create a Doggy Art Project
Using pet-safe paints, you can create a simple art project by placing a paper with paint under plastic wrap. Let your dog walk on the plastic for a paw painting!
24. Teach Your Dog to Clean Up Toys
Make cleaning a game by teaching your dog to “clean up” and put their toys in a basket.
25. Interactive Dog Training Apps
There are plenty of dog training apps that offer interactive games and commands, making training sessions engaging.
26. Use a Pet Treadmill
A treadmill designed for pets can help burn off some energy when they can’t go outside. Just make sure it’s designed for dogs and supervise them closely.
27. Play the Name Game
Teach your dog the names of different toys and test their memory by asking them to fetch each toy by name.
28. Scavenger Hunt with Toys
Hide your dog’s toys around the room and encourage them to find each one. This keeps them active while they use their senses to locate items.
29. Bubble Chasing
Dog-safe bubbles are a hit with many pups! Blowing bubbles for your dog to chase is an easy, low-mess activity.
30. Practice Doggy Massage
Learn some basic massage techniques to help your dog relax and relieve any tension or stiffness.
31. Use an Interactive Dog Camera
An interactive camera with treat-dispensing capabilities allows you to entertain your dog, even when you’re in a different room.
32. Make a Snuffle Mat
A snuffle mat is a great DIY activity that lets your dog forage for treats hidden in a fabric mat, keeping them engaged and mentally stimulated.
33. Play “Where’s the Toy?”
Hide a favorite toy under blankets or inside boxes and encourage your dog to find it, similar to hide and seek.
34. Dog-Friendly Ball Pit
Create a small ball pit using a plastic pool and some soft plastic balls. It’s a sensory experience for dogs and a lot of fun!
35. Bubble Machine for Dogs
An automatic bubble machine with dog-safe bubbles is a wonderful way to keep them busy and curious.
Keeping your dog entertained indoors doesn’t have to be a challenge. Whether you’re looking for a quick activity or a full-on game, there’s something on this list for every pup. Try a few of these activities, and see which ones your dog loves the most. Indoor playtime is not just about burning energy – it’s also a great way to bond, train, and keep your dog’s mind sharp. So, next time you’re indoors with your furry friend, get creative with these ideas and enjoy the time together!
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