Paws, Play, Repeat: Beating Bad Weather Boredom

When the weather outside is less than ideal - be it heavy rain, freezing cold, scary winds, scorching sun, or mud puddles everywhere - keeping your dog active and mentally stimulated can be a challenge. High-energy dogs especially need ways to burn off excess energy to stay happy and well-behaved. Luckily, there are plenty of indoor activities you can do to keep your pup engaged, exercised, and entertained. When outdoor time isn’t an option, here are some effective ways to manage your dog’s needs.

A mentally engaged dog is a tired dog. If your pup can’t run around outside, give their brain a workout with activities like:

• Puzzle Toys and Treat-Dispensing Games : These challenge your dog to think and problem-solve for their rewards.

• Training Sessions : Work on obedience, teach new tricks, or reinforce old ones. Check out the Impactful Canine Facebook page for videos on sessions you can easily do at home.

• Scent Games : Hide treats or toys around the house and encourage your dog to sniff them out. Click here to see an example of this in action.

Fetch doesn’t have to be limited to the backyard. Use a hallway or spacious room and throw a soft toy or ball to minimize damages. Tug-of-war is another great indoor option - just make sure to play safely and let your dog “win” occasionally to keep them motivated.

It’s easy to set up a mini agility course using household items like chairs, blankets, and boxes. Encourage your dog to jump over small obstacles, crawl under tables, or weave through cones. This exercise is great for improving coordination and confidence, and provides physical exercise as well.

Using food as a motivator is an excellent way to keep your dog occupied.

• Slow Feeders or Food Puzzles : There are different levels to both of these from beginner to advanced, so choose one that’ll be a challenge for your pooch but not so difficult they get frustrated. These force your dog to work for their meal.

• Homemade Snuffle Mats : Scatter kibble or treats in a fabric mat to encourage foraging instincts.

• Frozen Treats : Stuff a Kong toy with dog-safe peanut butter, yogurt, or mashed banana and freeze it for a long-lasting activity.

If your dog loves water, an indoor swimming facility like Dog Splash in Huntsville, AL can be a great way to burn energy. Facilities like this provide a safe and fun environment for dogs to swim, play, and exercise. Swimming is a fantastic low-impact workout that’s great for dogs of all ages and sizes, from puppy to senior. If you can get your dog in and out of the car, taking them to a facility like this can provide a much needed energy outlet while keeping them active and engaged. Not sure if your dog would enjoy water? Dog Splash offers a first-timer session where an instructor will help introduce your dog to the pool, and as a bonus, you can go with them to help them feel more secure.

Bad weather doesn’t have to mean an overstimulated or bored dog. With a little creativity, you can keep your pup active and entertained indoors, ensuring they stay happy and well-balanced no matter what’s happening outside. Try out different activities and find what works best for your dog’s personality and energy level. A well-exercised dog is a content dog - rain or shine!