Trying to think of fresh ways to keep your dog occupied can be more tiring than actually engaging in the activity. Consequently, I have compiled a set of simple activities that will keep your dog occupied.

Here are 33 easy things to do with your dog inside house/indoors, such as playing a game of hide-and-seek or stuffing a Kong.

Advantages to Keeping Your Dog Occupied

Canines have nothing better to do but cause havoc. Because we’re the only source of fun in their lives, when we don’t provide them with activities, they’ll come up with their own, which usually involves destroying furniture and chewing up shoes.

Destructive behaviors like excessive barking or chewing can be prevented by playing with your dog on a regular basis.

Scientists are increasingly in agreement that a dog’s quality of life may be gauged in large part by the amount and variety of playtime it receives.

Here are 33 indoor activities for you and your dog to enjoy together when the weather isn’t conducive to going outside.

Go on a treat hunt.

To play with your dog’s nose is one of the simplest methods to wear him out. Playing simple nose work games with your dog, like “find the treats,” may be a great way to tire them out mentally while also honing in on some of their innate abilities. Chopped up carrots are my dog’s all-time favorite treat for this activity, and you don’t even need to buy a whole bag of dog treats.

To participate in the game, all you need is a handful of treats and a dog willing to stand still while you hide them about the house. If you want your dog to pick up treats, you should tell it to “find the treats” and then praise it each time it succeeds.

Once you and your dog have reached an agreement on the meaning of “find the treats,” you can increase the difficulty. Hide the treats in places they’ll have to sniff out, such under a rug, then send them to another room while you do it.

Engage in the Crab-Catch Game

The shell game is a straightforward logic puzzle for canines. Let your dog observe as you secretly put a treat under one of the three cups to play the shell game with him. Then you mix up the order of the cups and have them “discover the treat.” Playing the shell game with your dog is a great way to exercise their brain and teach them to think critically and solve problems.

Third, instill in your dog the habit of picking up after himself with his toys.
It’s great mental exercise for your dog to learn to put their toys away in a container. Teaching your dog to pick up after themselves may sound strange, but it’s actually a lot of fun. Besides being a fun way to exercise your dog’s brain, teaching it new tricks may do wonders for its self-esteem.

If your dog already knows the “drop it” command, you can practice by having them pick up a toy and then dropping it into a container. Be really effusive in your praise, and then do it again. Your dog will learn to self-clean in due time if you’re consistent with him.

Put a stuffed Kong in your dog’s toy box if you want to keep him entertained.

In my experience, nothing beats a stuffed Kong for calming down a bored dog. Try stuffing a Kong with your dog’s favorite treats if you want to keep them occupied for a long. You can fill it with peanut butter, soup, or biscuits and give your dog something to work for while it’s in the freezer. Here’s a list of 39 nutritious snack options that work well for stuffing a Kong if you’re at a loss for what to use.

To keep your dog from getting bored while you’re at the office, try giving it a stuffed Kong to play with. Freeze the Kong the night before and give it to your dog in the morning before you leave. The average dog can enjoy a frozen Kong for 30 minutes or more, and that’s if you don’t overfill it.

Toss a Tug-of-War Match 5.

One of the most effective methods to have fun with our canine companions is to play a game of tug of war. Physically and mentally, your dog will benefit from this activity. It doesn’t call for a huge area, so you can even play it inside.

And contrary to popular belief, playing tug or allowing your dog to win does not teach them to be violent or domineering. Providing a victory to your dog can increase their enjoyment of the game and motivate them to play more often. Studies have shown that dogs who play tug with their owners are more obedient and secure in themselves.

If you and your dog play by a few simple rules, like “the game ends if your teeth touch my palm,” tug can be a fantastic way to get some exercise together.

Tip #6: Instruct Fido in the Art of Housework

Dogs thrive when they have a purpose in life, even if it’s just to bring you your slippers. If you want them to feel even more helpful, you can teach them the names of things you’d be happy to have recovered.

Teach your dog to open the refrigerator door for you and see your friends’ jaws drop. If you want to train your dog to open the refrigerator door, you can make it easier for them by tying a towel around the handle. And if you really want to wow people, you can train your dog to assist with household tasks.

Seven, Take Part in Dynamic Games

I believe that playing interactive games with my dog, such as tug of war, discover the treats, puzzle games, and fetch, is the best way to keep him occupied on wet days. Playing interactive games with your dog is a fun and simple approach to provide him with mental stimulation and reduce undesirable tendencies like destructive chewing and barking.

Indoor fetch should be played with a lightweight ball to prevent damage to your home. (education gained) Dogs love a good game of tug, and it can do wonders for their manners and self-control, too. It’s also a good form of exercise. One of the more physically taxing sports we play, minute for minute.

Put your dog through a food-earning exercise.

Our dogs have the good life, with a soft bed, lots of love, and free food. However, most dogs today aren’t getting the mental stimulation they need because they weren’t developed to cooperate with humans. Because of their foraging tendencies, making them labor for their food is not cruel nor unusual.

Making your dog earn their food is a simple yet effective approach to stimulate their brain. Your dog can be trained to do tricks for his dinner, or you can use a food-dispensing toy.

Make Sure Your Dog Knows What Their Toys Are Called!

Where can I find the Border Collie named Chaser? She can name more than a thousand different things and choose a toy from a selection of over 800 merely by hearing its name. Not everyone can be a high achiever like Chaser, but we can all have fun with our dogs by teaching them the names of their toys.

Beginning with one unique plaything, you can name it as you get to know it. With reinforcement and repetition, your dog will associate the verbal name with the selected item. After your dog has learnt the name of a toy, you can put his or her newfound knowledge to the test by having them select that toy from a pile of others.

Ten. Instruct Fido to “Go Find” His Playthings

When your dog learns the names of a few of their toys, you can play “go find it” with them. Put your dog’s toys in a box or pile and encourage them to “go discover” their favorite. When your dog has mastered the game, you may make it more difficult by increasing the number of toys they must sort through.

Incentives like treats or a quick game of tug should be used to keep them motivated and engaged. You might think of this game as a brain workout for your dog.

Doggy Do It! : 11 Ways to Impress Your Friends (and Your Dog)

Does Fido have the skills to jump through hoops and weave between your legs? You can always teach your dog something new, and I’m here to tell you that weaving in and out of your legs is more simpler to teach than you may think.

What sort of tricks has your dog learned thus far? You can always make trick training more difficult by improvising new moves. When your dog has mastered several commands, it’s time to take things to the next level by combining their skills to do entirely new maneuvers.

Focus on Clicker Training

Using a clicker in dog training is one of my favorite pieces of advice. When your dog does something good, you can use a clicker—a small box with a lever that creates a noise when pressed—to mark the precise moment. One of the reasons why I enjoy using one so much is because it makes it so easy to let my dog know when she is behaving appropriately.

I suggest getting a clicker the next time you’re in the pet store if you don’t already have one. They’re not expensive and can simplify training by allowing you to catch them in the middle of performing a new skill or command.

It’s easy to miss the window of opportunity to praise and reward your dog the moment he or she performs the desired behavior when training a dog. To pinpoint the precise instant your dog made the correct decision, a clicker is an invaluable tool.

Play Which Hand?, Number Thirteen

This is a fun game to play with your dog if you want to introduce him or her to the world of scent work. Only dog treats are required; if you don’t have any, you can substitute chopped up fruits and vegetables or make your own.

Playing “Which Hand?”

Hold out one hand and I’ll give you a treat.
Pull your fists together and hold them out like a paw to your dog.
Leave it up to the dog to decide which hand it wants to play with.
If your dog knows which hand contains the treat, he or she can paw at your hand and you can then open it and offer the treat to them.
Don’t be too hard on him if he makes a wrong decision; it usually takes a few tries to get it right.
A command like “touch” that is very light will be useful.
Carrots, once chopped, provide great rewards for scent work games and practice. They’re low in calories, simple to make, and (most) canine companions go crazy over them.

Engage in a round of hide-and-seek

One of Laika’s favorite pastimes is playing hide-and-seek with her family. While humans might not find the game of “hide and seek” very engaging, many dogs find it to be rather enjoyable.

In the event that your dog isn’t yet proficient with the “stay” command, you can enlist a friend’s assistance by having them divert your dog while you go into hiding.

15 – Buy your dog some toys that will challenge him mentally

Puzzles are a fun and effective way to keep your dog’s mind active and engaged. Treat dispensing toys like the Kong Wobbler and more traditional puzzle toys are also widely available. Lots of fun do-it-yourself toys are also available. I find great amusement in the classic muffin tin game, which requires only a muffin tin and some tennis balls.

We recommend Best Bully Sticks and Benebones if you want to offer your dog something to chew on for a while. If you’re very sensitive to odors, you should probably choose bully sticks that don’t have any.

Obedience Training: A Primer

How well versed is your dog in the fundamentals of obedience? Can you trust his recollection and stay? Every once in a while, even the most well-trained canines benefit from a refresher course. The basic commands of “sit,” “down,” “stay,” “drop it,” and “come here” should be ingrained in every dog. Your dog will benefit greatly from a few short training sessions (5-10 minutes each) every day.

17 – Fetch a Game

For a simple game of fetch, most of us do have some additional space indoors, but if you live on the fifth level with a St. Bernard, you should probably forego this game. Many people enjoy playing fetch indoors, and common areas like corridors and large living rooms are ideal for this purpose.

Playing fetch inside the kitchen is usually not a good idea, and you should be careful with heavy toys near anything that can be broken or knocked over. Playing catch instead of fetch could be an option if you don’t like the notion of playing fetch inside.

Learn How to Give a Dog a Massage

The benefits of dog massage to both owner and dog are numerous. Almost any dog will appreciate the chance to chill out and unwind after receiving a massage.

Even more so, massages for dogs can ease the discomfort of arthritic or otherwise injured limbs in senior pets. Dog massages have several benefits, including calming Fido down, easing tension, increasing blood flow, and strengthening the link between you and your pet.

19 – Have Fun With Some No Cost Modeling Games

Those who are unfamiliar with the training resource 101 Things to Do with a Box are missing out. It’s easy to pick up and use, requiring only a box and a clicker, and serves as a solid primer for free shaping techniques.

The goal of most dog training games is to get our dogs to try something they haven’t before. They get to exercise their own will and develop their cognitive and bodily agility. You begin by placing a box on the ground and allowing your dog to explore and determine what to do.

A box isn’t the only thing that can benefit from shaping. A dog is shown being shape-trained to crawl beneath a table.

Maintain a regular grooming schedule for your dog.

Grooming isn’t as much fun for your dog as playing tug of war, but it’s necessary maintenance. Our canine companions require regular grooming services, including brushing, bathing, teeth cleaning, and nail trimming.

There are certain dogs that are more tolerant of grooming than others, and the more you practice with treats as rewards, the easier it will go. You want your dog to associate grooming with a pleasant experience, so don’t be shy about giving him or her lots of treats.

Tag It’s Game Number 21

If you have a canine companion, you should definitely introduce them to the joys of tag. You’ll take turns sitting or standing on opposite sides of the room, each of you with a reward or toy in hand. In order to encourage the dog to come over, take turns calling him and rewarding him. You should give your dog lots of praise and rewards when it behaves. This is a great opportunity to have some fun while strengthening memory retention.

The Number 22 Most Fun Activity You Can Do With Your Dog Is…

Make a fun obstacle course using things you already have around the house. Get your dog to jump on some towels, navigate through his playthings, and end up snoozing on a blanket. Think outside the box to create a course for your dog to navigate. As soon as your dog has mastered jumping over the towels, you may move on to the toy weave. Your dog’s mind will stay sharp and entertained as you work on more advanced tasks together.

Twenty-Three. Instruct Your Dog to Search for and Destroy Bubbles

When I’m feeling under the weather, this is my dog and I’s go-to pastime. This is a great, low-effort approach to keep my dog stimulated and active.

Some dogs, for reasons I cannot fathom, seem to take great delight in trying to capture floating soap bubbles. There is also a large variety of bubble-making toys for pets available. You need not go out of your way to find special bubbles; regular bubbles can be used safely around youngsters. Parents, here is photographic evidence that babies, dogs, and bubbles are the world’s cutest things.

Make a Dog Toy, Get a New One, or Rotate Them 24

Researchers have observed that dogs quickly tire of their existing toy collection. To keep your dog interested, you may either buy them new toys or switch them out periodically. Don’t let your dog have free reign over all of their toys; instead, limit them to just two or three. They’ll regain some of their youthful zeal if you occasionally include one of their older playthings in their repertoire.

By actively playing with them, such as with games of fetch or tug, you can ensure that their toys remain interesting and fun. When you join in and play with a toy, it takes on a whole new meaning. DIY toys are abundant, and they may be made from simple materials like old tees, towels, and even denim.

Organize a playdate for your dog(s)

What kind of dog friends does your pet have? To have fun with them, invite them over. It’s great fun to watch dogs play together, and you can rest assured that at least one of them will be exhausted by the end of the day. While your dogs are engaged in their own version of “wrestle madness” in the living room, you can use that time to get some work done.

The 26th Prompt: Refresh Your Memory

All of us, even our dogs, could use a refresher course every once in a while. I mean, when was the last time you asked your dog to pretend dead or turn over? If you haven’t practiced in a while, pull out the clicker or some goodies and go through the motions. Make sure your dog’s manners aren’t slipping by having them go through a practice session of all the commands. Keep your training sessions brief and sweet; even just five minutes a day can make a huge difference.

Practice the “Go To” command with your dog.

Have you taught your dog how to get to the sofa or bed? This tip is easy to impart and comes in handy when hosting a meal or having company around. Repeatedly directing your dog to his designated area as you prepare dinner will eventually result in his obeying your command. If you don’t let your dog into the kitchen with you, you won’t have to worry about dog hair ending up in your food. Nonetheless, if you do, consider these 10 suggestions for removing dog hair.

Experiment with your dog and see if he can learn to grab his leash.

When it’s time to go for a walk, I make my dog get her leash, then bring me my boots and her harness. While I get ready, she needs just enough to keep her mind occupied and focused on the task at hand. Once upon a time, before I taught her to go get those things herself, she would whirl around in circles, whine, and jump up and down while I got everything ready. This way, she’ll be nice and relaxed, and getting ready and leaving the house will be a breeze (and take less time).

Teaching your dog a simple task, such as retrieving their leash or harness, can provide them with a welcome source of mental stimulation and a satisfying sense of purpose.

Show Your Dog How to Control The Lights

This can be quite helpful when it’s getting late and you need extra light but don’t feel like getting up and making it. Instead of getting out of bed, you may just have your dog flip the switch for you. Any excellent “touch” it command or touch stick will do to get you started with this trick. You may need to get creative if your dog is too small to reach the light switch on its own. If the prospect of a few scratches on the wall bothers you, this is not a trick you should try.

Practice Self-Regulation for Better Etiquette

It’s important to instill in dogs the same patience that’s needed to teach it to a youngster. Dogs need to acquire impulse control from the time they are puppies, when they are learning bite inhibition, until they are adults, when they are learning to “wait” on command.

Concoct Some Easy Snacks for Your Dog, No. 31.

Even if your dog wasn’t involved in the production of dog treats, he’s sure to enjoy eating them afterward. Making my own dog treats at home is far more satisfying than buying them from the supermarket. When we create our own dog food, we know precisely what goes into it, and we also have complete control over the serving amount.

Besides saving money and having a ready supply of training rewards, you can wow your dog with your culinary prowess by preparing his or her own dog treats.

Have them sit down and ask politely 32.

Do you have a dog that nudges your hand when it wants something? If you don’t like it, show your dog that sitting well will get him your attention. Without proper training and socialization, a dog is more likely to exhibit undesirable behavior.

Every time we do something, our dogs watch us to see what we want them to do next. If you consistently reward your dog for being nice, he’ll learn to approach you with requests instead of demanding them.

Curl up on the sofa for a comfortable 33rd.

Nothing beats kicking back and unwinding after a satisfying workout or game. To relax is human nature, and many canine companions like lounging at our feet. Usually, Laika and I have a little couch time right before bed. Even though our regular embrace before bedtime didn’t begin as a predetermined ritual, she now reliably joins me on the couch at 10:30 every night.

Make Playtime a Happy and Healthy Habit for Your Dog

Staying inside doesn’t have to be boring. Engage in some lighthearted canine playtime and try teaching your pet a new trick. Dogs benefit greatly from and enjoy participatory play, which also has a significant effect on the dog’s general health and happiness. You don’t need an abundance of expensive dog toys or access to the outdoors to keep your dog interested and content; all you need is some time and effort on your part.

We may not be able to provide them the career they were bred for, but we can give them important work to do with some games and tricks. It’s easy to see why dogs are considered man’s best friend after playing a game of tug with your pet.

If you call a dog, it will break its neck trying to get to you. Dogs have nothing except a slavish desire to do right by their humans. A cat’s attitude is “What’s in it for me?” whenever you call it. By Lewis Grizzard

Can you share some ideas for indoor dog activities? Have you heard about the current research that links play with a dog’s overall health and happiness? Toys: Does your dog know what each one is called? Do you make your dog’s toys and treats?