Rain, snow or cold? 🌧🐶 Discover 10 creative indoor games for dogs that challenge body & mind and provide fun on rainy days.
Introduction
If you have a dog, you know the problem: it's pouring outside, the wind is whistling around the houses and it's hard to think about a long walk. But your four-legged friend needs exercise, exercise and activity even on days like these.
Fortunately, there are many exciting games that you can easily play indoors in your home - whether you live in a small city apartment or in a house with more space. The great thing is that indoor games not only promote physical fitness, but also the bond between you and your dog.
Here are 10 varied indoor games for rainy days that are fun and train your dog's brain at the same time.
10 indoor games for your dog
1. hide and seek - the classic
We know how to play hide and seek from our childhood - and dogs love it just as much.
- Ask your dog to sit for a moment (or have someone else hold him).
- Hide in another room or behind a door.
- Call your dog and praise him profusely when he has found you.
👉 Tip: Also works with toys or snacks that you scatter around the room. This teaches your dog to use his nose.
2. treat search in cups
The famous "cup game" is fun for almost every dog.
- Take 3 cups and place them upside down on the floor.
- Hide a treat under a cup.
- Let your dog use his nose or paw to find out where the reward is.
👉 This trains patience, concentration and nose use.
3. indoor retrieving
Also possible in small rooms!
- Use a hallway or a long corridor.
- Use soft toys or balls so that nothing breaks.
- Short, controlled throws are all you need to keep your dog busy.
4. trick training for the head
Rainy days are perfect for practicing new commands or tricks:
- Give paw
- Role
- Do males
- Place toys in a box
👉 This not only strengthens concentration, but also communication between you and your dog.
5. sniffing games & nose work
Dogs have an incredibly fine nose - take advantage of it!
- Hide treats in a sniffer rug or in a crumpled up blanket.
- Let your dog sniff out the treats.
- It is more difficult if you use small cardboard boxes or kitchen roll paper towels.
6. chewing and licking games
Chewing and licking calms dogs down immensely. Especially on rainy days, this helps to release excess energy.
- Chew toys made of natural rubber or sustainable chew bones are perfect.
- Filled treat mats (e.g. with pâté, yogurt or banana) also keep dogs occupied for a long time and promote dental health.
7th indoor agility course
With a little creativity, your living room can become an adventure playground:
- Set up cushions as obstacles
- Use chairs and blankets for small tunnels
- Use broomsticks as hurdles
👉 Make sure that the floor is non-slip so that your dog doesn't slip.
8. intelligence toys & feeding games
Keep your dog mentally busy by making him work to get food:
- Feed balls
- Puzzle toys
- Rolling treat dispenser
This provides mental stimulation and prevents boredom.
9. pulling games & tugging games
A sturdy rope or a special tug toy is enough to have real fun.
- Important: clear rules! Your dog should let go on command.
- Make sure to play fair - no rough tearing, but a playful pull.
10. dance & movement games
Turn on the music, add your dog - and off you go!
- Teach your dog small movements: Spinning, jumping, running through your legs.
- Ideal for having fun together and strengthening the bond.
Extra tips for rainy days
- Short training sessions: It's better to have several short sessions than one long one to keep your dog focused.
- Don't forget the reward: Positive reinforcement provides motivation.
- Safety first: Clear away fragile items and use non-slip surfaces.
Conclusion
Rainy weather doesn't automatically mean boredom. With the right indoor games, you can give your dog exercise, fun and mental exercise - without having to walk in the pouring rain.
👉 Discover our sustainable sustainable dog toys at apaw.dog and turn rainy days into adventure days! 🐾
FAQ
How can I keep my dog busy in the rain?
You can also keep your dog happy indoors with indoor games such as search games, trick training, intelligence toys or tug games.
How long should you take the dog out in the rain?
A short walk to relieve yourself is enough. You can then balance out the urge to move with indoor games.
Which toys are suitable for indoors?
Soft balls, chew toys, sniffing rugs or tug ropes are ideal. Look for sustainable materials such as natural rubber, cotton or recycled fabrics.
Are indoor games sufficient for my dog?
Yes - as long as you offer regular variety. Especially on rainy days, indoor games help to reduce energy and avoid boredom.
