Easy Ways to Keep Your Dog Busy Indoors

Easy Ways to Keep Your Dog Busy Indoors

As the weather continues to get colder, your dog will likely be spending much more time indoors. And with all that additional time spent inside, your dog is bound to eventually get bored of watching Netflix and snuggling on the couch all the time, which could mean trouble. Here are some tips to help your dog channel their boredom into positive activities instead of destructive behaviors.

Play “Find the Treats”

This game is an incredibly simple and easy way to wear your dog down and test their skills. Simply hide some treats around a room in your home and encourage your dog to sniff them out. Reward them with the treat once they successfully locate it. Your dog will gain confidence in their searching skills and enjoy themselves along the way. Our canine companions are naturally guided by their noses, so the game is an excellent way to test their sense of smell and give them a fun activity to maintain that strong sense.

Use a Stuffed Kong

These classic toys are a great way to challenge your dog and keep them busy for hours. Either place some treats inside of the Kong or fill it with peanut butter or broth and pop it in your freezer for a few hours. Your dog will have to work to get the food out of the toy, which is both mentally and physically stimulating. For years, dog owners have trusted Kongs to busy their bored pups and keep them out of trouble, and they work time and time again. If you don’t already have a Kong, you should consider getting one both for your sake and your dog.

Play Tug of War

Another classic game to try with your bored pup is tug of war. While the game isn’t for everyone, many dogs love getting a chance to tear, pull, and paw at a rope or old piece of cloth while you pull at the other end. This exercise is great for your dog’s teeth and chewing instincts, and it won’t make them aggressive or dominant, as some dog owners may fear. Plus, it serves as a great bonding experience between you and your dog. Playing is very important for your dog’s development, and tug of war is the perfect way to do it!

Teach Your Dog a New Trick

Young or old, it’s never too late for your dog to learn a new trick or sharpen up the skills that they already have. Working together to learn something new is a great learning experience for you and your dog, and as they age, it becomes more and more important to give them opportunities to learn. Try teaching your dog to shake, play dead, or stand can make the learning experience fun, but make sure you’re not pushing your dog’s physical limits too far. If you need some inspiration on tricks to teach your dog, check out this video on creative dog tricks.

Groom Your Dog

Dog looking bored or unhappy? What better way to occupy their time than with a nice, quality grooming session? Grooming your dog keeps them looking nice and fresh, but it also communicates the love and affection that you feel for your dog. They know you get busy, so taking some time out of your day to show them some love is always welcomed by them. Trust us, they’ll never get bored of this activity!

Spending time with your dog in any capacity is always appreciated by them. Try switching it up with one of the above activities and see how entertained they are. Boredom, be gone!