How to keep a dog entertained on a rainy day
Keeping a high-energy dog entertained indoors can be a challenge, especially when outdoor adventures aren’t an option. But with the right mix of mental stimulation, training, and interactive games, you can keep your pup engaged, happy, and (somewhat) tired. From brain-teasing food puzzles to exciting scentwork games, these activities help burn energy while strengthening your bond. Whether it’s a rainy day, recovery time, or just a need for variety, you’ll find plenty of fun ways to channel your dog’s enthusiasm indoors. Ready to turn your home into a playground for your furry friend? Let’s dive into the best activities!
How to Keep Your High-Energy Dog Happy Indoors: Training, Games, and Mental Exercise
If you’ve ever had an energetic dog—especially a Vizsla—you know that a day without exercise is like torture for both of you. So, when my dog Kuri injured her paw and the vet ordered a week of rest, my first thought was, "How am I going to keep this dog entertained?!"
The answer? Mental stimulation, training, and indoor games. While these aren’t complete substitutes for a run at the park, they keep your dog engaged, focused, and (somewhat) tired. Plus, they come in handy for those rainy days when outdoor adventures just aren’t possible. Let’s dive into some of the best ways to keep your dog busy inside!
Mental Exercises and Training
These activities are perfect when you’re short on space or when your dog needs low-impact activities during recovery.
Work for Dinner
Why just hand your dog a bowl of food when you can make them work for it? Training with food rewards not only makes mealtime more exciting but also strengthens your bond. Try making your dog perform tricks or commands like sit, down, shake, high-five, or even complex ones like spinning or playing dead before earning their next bite. If your dog eats kibble, it’s easy to hand-feed one piece at a time. If they’re on a raw diet, try using bite-sized freeze-dried pieces.
Scentwork & Nosework
Dogs experience the world through their noses, so why not put that superpower to good use? Hide small treats around the house and tell your dog to "Find it!" Start simple, placing treats in obvious spots, then increase difficulty by hiding them under furniture or behind objects. Not only does this exercise their mind, but it taps into their natural sniffing instincts.
Place Training
The "Place" command teaches your dog impulse control by making them stay on a designated mat, bed, or platform until released. It sounds easy, but adding distractions (like a ringing doorbell) makes it challenging. This is also great if you have multiple dogs—one can stay in "place" while you train the other!
Door Manners
If your dog greets visitors like a flying torpedo, this is for you. Train your pup to go to their designated "place" when someone knocks. At first, practice by knocking on your own door and rewarding them for staying put. Eventually, invite friends over to help with real-life practice.
Leave It Games
“Leave it” is an invaluable command, especially for preventing your dog from grabbing dropped food or dangerous objects on walks. Start by placing a treat on the floor while your dog is in a "down" position. Say "leave it" and only let them take it when you say "free." Increase difficulty by using high-value treats or placing treats on their paws.
Physical Activities (Yes, Even Indoors!)
If you’ve got some space (or a very understanding landlord), these activities will help burn off that excess energy.
Hide and Seek
This one’s a favorite! Have someone hold your dog while you hide, then call their name and watch them race around to find you. It’s a great way to reinforce recall commands while making them move.
Recall Games
Get two people and a hallway or large room. Take turns calling your dog back and forth, rewarding them with treats each time. Start small, then increase distance—even hiding in different rooms.
Indoor Agility Course
Use pillows, chairs, and blankets to create tunnels and jumps. Guide your dog through the obstacle course, rewarding them with treats and praise for completing each challenge.
Tug-of-War
A simple but effective game! Use a sturdy rope toy and let your dog engage in a fun game of tug. Just make sure to teach a release command so they know when to let go.
Visit Dog-Friendly Stores
Many hardware stores (like Home Depot or Lowe’s) allow dogs. Walking through the aisles, practicing commands, and greeting friendly strangers provides mental and physical exercise.
Brain-Engaging Games & Toys
If you’re looking for activities that keep your dog engaged while giving you a break, these are perfect.
Food Puzzles & Treat Dispensers
Toys like the Kong, treat-dispensing balls, or puzzle boards make mealtime a fun challenge. You can even freeze Kongs filled with peanut butter or yogurt for a longer-lasting treat.
DIY Puzzle Games
Hide treats under plastic cups and shuffle them around—your dog has to figure out which one holds the prize! Another variation is hiding treats in small boxes or behind furniture and letting your dog sniff them out.
Snuffle Mats
These mats mimic grass and encourage your dog to "forage" for hidden treats, providing both mental stimulation and slow feeding benefits.
Rainy Day Relaxation & Maintenance
Let’s face it—sometimes, you and your pup just need a chill day. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be productive!
Grooming Sessions
Rainy days are the perfect time to give your dog a bath, brush their coat, or trim their nails. Many dogs dislike nail trims, but desensitizing them slowly with positive reinforcement helps a lot.
Bake Dog Treats
If you love baking, why not whip up some homemade dog treats? Just make sure to use dog-safe ingredients (no chocolate, grapes, or xylitol).
Movie Night
Snuggle up with your pup and watch a classic dog movie (just maybe skip Marley & Me if you're feeling emotional).
Conclusion
Having a high-energy dog indoors doesn’t have to be a nightmare! By combining mental stimulation, indoor exercise, and training, you can keep your dog happy and engaged—even when they can’t run outside. Try out different activities, mix things up, and most importantly, have fun bonding with your pup!
How do you entertain your dog on bad weather days? Share your tips in the comments!
Thanks for your reading.
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