Is your dog restless on rainy days or when outdoor play isn’t an option?
No worries! With the right indoor activities, you can turn boredom into tail-wagging fun.
- Brain-boosting games to challenge and entertain.
- Simple exercises to keep them active in tight spaces.
- Easy boredom busters to keep your pup happy.
Let’s transform your indoor time into endless excitement for your furry friend!
Table of contents
37 Simple Ways To Keep Your Dog Busy
Physical Activities
Even indoors, there are plenty of ways to keep your dog active.
You don’t need a big yard or fancy equipment to help your dog burn off energy.
These physical activities are perfect for small spaces and need minimal setup.
1. Balloon Bopping
Balloons aren’t just for parties—your dog can have hours of fun trying to keep a balloon from touching the ground.
This game is great for high-energy dogs and breeds that love playing with balls.
Blow up a balloon and encourage your dog to bop it with their nose or paws.
The goal is to keep the balloon in the air as long as possible.
How to Play:
- Blow up a balloon and toss it gently toward your dog.
- Encourage your dog to hit the balloon back with their nose or paws.
- Keep the balloon in the air, and see how long your dog can keep it up without letting it touch the ground.
For more variety, switch the balloon for a lightweight beach ball.
You could also use a foam ball made for dogs.
These larger objects add an extra level of difficulty, especially for smaller breeds.
This can also prevent balloon popping, which might scare more timid dogs.
Keep changing the objects to maintain excitement and engagement.
Safety Tip: Supervise this game to ensure your dog doesn’t pop the balloon, as the pieces could be a choking hazard.
Opt for larger, more durable balloons designed for pets.
2. Bubble Chasing
Bubble chasing is another simple, entertaining activity for dogs.
Dogs love chasing and popping bubbles, and this game is especially fun for dogs with a strong prey drive.
Use non-toxic, dog-safe bubbles, and watch your dog go wild trying to catch and pop them.
How to Play:
- Blow dog-safe bubbles in the air.
- Let your dog chase and pop them.
For extra fun, use flavored bubbles.
Peanut butter or bacon flavors can make this game irresistible to your dog.
3. DIY Agility Course
Turn your living room into an agility course using items from around your home.
This activity gives a workout.
It also helps with focus and problem-solving. Use chairs, pillows, broomsticks, and blankets to make obstacles for your dog to navigate.
How to Set Up:
- Create a tunnel using chairs and blankets.
- Set up broomsticks for your dog to jump over.
- Arrange cushions or pillows as obstacles to maneuver around.
Create mini obstacle courses using household items like chairs, cushions, or broomsticks.
This keeps your dog active indoors without needing special equipment.”
Start with easy obstacles.
Then, increase the difficulty as your dog improves. This activity helps improve your dog’s coordination, agility, and focus.
4. Hallway Fetch
Even in a small space, you can play fetch indoors by using a hallway.
Soft toys or small rubber balls work best for this game, as they won’t damage walls or floors.
Toss the toy down the hallway and have your dog retrieve it.
How to Play:
- Grab a soft toy or ball.
- Throw it down the hallway and encourage your dog to fetch it.
- Reward them with praise when they bring it back.
This is a great game for dogs who love fetch but don’t have access to a large outdoor space.
5. Indoor Tug of War
Tug of war is a fun and engaging game that burns off energy while helping to build muscle.
Use a sturdy rope toy or even a knotted old t-shirt.
Play tug, but remember to let your dog win occasionally to keep them motivated.
How to Play:
- Hold one end of a rope toy while your dog grabs the other.
- Playfully tug back and forth.
- Let your dog win occasionally to keep the game fun.
Tug of war helps strengthen your dog’s grip and provides a fun way to release energy.
Just make sure the game stays light and doesn’t become aggressive.
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6. Hide and Seek
Hide and seek isn’t just for kids—dogs love it too! Start by asking your dog to “stay” while you hide somewhere in the house.
Once hidden, call your dog to find you. This game strengthens your dog’s focus and recall skills.
How to Play:
- Ask your dog to sit and stay.
- Hide in another room or behind furniture.
- Call your dog’s name and wait for them to find you.
- Reward them with a treat or praise when they succeed.
Real-Life Example: Jack Russell Terrier, Bella, loves playing hide and seek.
Her strong prey drive makes her a natural at tracking me down no matter where I hide.
Dogs like Bella, who enjoy chasing, find this game thrilling and mentally stimulating.
For dogs who excel at hide and seek, add an extra challenge by hiding small toys or treats throughout the house.
Use verbal cues like ‘find it’ or ‘seek’ to help them understand the game.
You can, over time, increase the difficulty.
Hide items in trickier spots, like under cushions or inside boxes.
For dogs with strong prey instincts, this game challenges their hunting skills.
It provides a mental workout.
7. Stair Climbing Challenge
If you have stairs, use them to give your dog a cardio workout.
Toss a toy or treat up the stairs and encourage your dog to run up and bring it back.
This activity tires out high-energy dogs quickly.
But, be cautious with older dogs or those with joint issues.
How to Play:
- Throw a toy or treat up the stairs.
- Encourage your dog to run up and retrieve it.
- Repeat as many times as your dog can handle.
If your dog can climb stairs, make the game more engaging.
Introduce commands like ‘sit’ or ‘stay’ between each throw.
You could also place a toy halfway up the stairs.
Have your dog wait at the bottom until you signal to retrieve it.
This adds obedience training to the game.
Your dog must use both their brain and body to complete the task.
Be sure to check their energy levels and adjust the game as needed.
8. Command-Based Fitness Routine
Add fun fitness drills that use basic commands: “sit,” “stay,” and “jump.”
Ask your dog to perform a series of commands in quick succession, such as “sit,” followed by “roll over” and “jump.”
This activity combines mental and physical exercise and reinforces training.
How to Play:
- Start with a simple command like “sit.”
- Follow it with “roll over,” then “jump” over a cushion or object.
- Reward your dog after they complete the routine.
This game sharpens your dog’s obedience while keeping them active and focused.
Mental Stimulation
Dogs need mental stimulation just as much as physical exercise.
Bored dogs are more likely to engage in destructive behaviors.
These activities will challenge your dog’s brain.
They provide the mental exercise needed to keep your dog sharp and engaged.
9. Puzzle Toys
Puzzle toys are perfect for keeping your dog entertained and mentally stimulated.
These toys challenge your dog to figure out how to access hidden treats.
You can buy pre-made puzzle toys or make your own with household items.
DIY Puzzle Toy:
- Use a muffin tin and place a treat in each cup.
- Cover the treats with tennis balls or toys.
- Let your dog figure out how to move the balls to get to the treats.
Puzzle toys are great for smart breeds like Poodles and German Shepherds.
They crave both mental and physical challenges.
For dogs new to puzzle toys, start with a simple, treat-dispensing toy.
Then, increase the difficulty by introducing multi-step puzzles.
If your dog becomes frustrated, be sure to guide them through the puzzle to keep the game fun and positive.
He will grow to love these mental challenges.
10. Teaching New Tricks
Teaching your dog new tricks is a fantastic way to engage their brain and strengthen your bond.
Start with simple tricks like “shake” or “spin.”
Then, move on to advanced ones like “weave through legs” or “play dead.””
How to Teach a New Trick:
- Start with a simple trick like “shake.”
- Use a treat to guide your dog’s paw into your hand.
- Reward them with praise and a treat when they succeed.
- Practice consistently, adding more complex tricks over time.
“Which Hand” Scent Game
Place a treat in one hand and let your dog figure out which hand it’s in.
This simple game stimulates their sense of smell and keeps them entertained.
Teaching tricks builds your dog’s focus and patience.
It’s also a fun way to bond.
11. Name Learning for Toys
You can teach your dog to recognize the names of their toys and retrieve them on command.
Start by holding a toy and repeating its name.
Once your dog begins to associate the name with the toy, ask them to bring it to you.
How to Teach Name Learning:
- Hold up a toy and say its name, such as “ball.”
- Encourage your dog to fetch the toy and bring it to you.
- Reward them with a treat when they get it right.
This game sharpens your dog’s memory and enhances communication between you and your pet.
12. Interactive Apps
Believe it or not, there are apps designed to entertain dogs.
These apps display moving objects like animals or balls that your dog can paw at or “chase” on the screen.
They can’t replace real-world interaction.
But, these apps can engage your dog for short periods.
How to Use Interactive Apps:
- Download a dog-friendly app on your tablet or phone.
- Place the device on the floor and let your dog interact with it.
- Supervise to make sure your dog doesn’t become frustrated.
These apps offer visual and audio stimulation, but should be used in moderation.
13. Music Time and Reactions
Certain dogs respond to different types of music.
Classical music calms some dogs, while others may react to upbeat songs.
Experiment by playing different genres and observing how your dog reacts.
How to Play:
- Create a playlist with various genres, such as classical or jazz.
- Watch how your dog reacts to each type of music.
- Use calming music for anxious dogs during stressful times.
Studies have shown that dogs can be soothed by reggae and soft rock, so try adding those to your playlist as well.
14. Home Cinema with Animal Videos
You can entertain your dog by showing them animal-themed videos.
YouTube has dog channels that show videos of squirrels and birds.
Set up a comfortable area for your dog and let them relax while watching the action.
How to Set Up:
- Set up a cozy space with your dog’s bed and favorite blanket.
- Play animal videos on your TV or tablet.
- Let your dog watch the videos while relaxing.
It provides a relaxing yet stimulating experience. This is great for dogs with high prey drives.
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DIY Toys and Games
You don’t need to buy expensive toys to keep your dog entertained. With some creativity, you can make fun, challenging toys at home.
These DIY toys are budget-friendly and ideal for engaging your dog.
15. Rainy Day Fun with Household Items
On rainy days, use egg cartons or toilet paper rolls to make simple puzzle games.
Hide small treats inside an egg carton. Or, fold toilet paper rolls at both ends with treats inside.
This creates a fun puzzle for your dog to solve.
How to Make a Puzzle:
- Place treats inside an egg carton and close the lid.
- Let your dog figure out how to open it and get to the treats.
This encourages problem-solving and mental engagement while keeping your dog entertained for hours.
16. Sock Puzzles
Old socks can be turned into engaging toys for your dog. Hide a treat inside an old sock, tie it in a knot, and give it to your dog.
They’ll have to work to untie the knot and get to the treat.
How to Make a Sock Puzzle:
- Place a treat inside an old sock.
- Tie the sock in a loose knot.
- Give it to your dog and let them work to get the treat out.
Use items like egg cartons or toilet paper rolls to hide treats.
Let your dog figure out how to get the treat by opening or unfolding the rolls.
It’s an easy way to stimulate their mind and doesn’t need any special toys.
This simple puzzle provides both mental stimulation and physical exercise.
17. Box Fort
Remember building forts as a child? Your dog will love it too! Grab some cardboard boxes and stack them to create tunnels and rooms.
Hide treats inside the fort, and watch your dog explore.
How to Build a Box Fort:
- Stack cardboard boxes to create tunnels or small rooms.
- Cut out holes for doorways.
- Hide treats or toys inside for your dog to find.
This activity satisfies your dog’s curiosity. It gives them a fun, indoor adventure.
18. Homemade Snuffle Mat
A snuffle mat is a great way to engage your dog’s sense of smell.
You can make one at home by tying strips of fabric through a rubber mat with holes.
Hide treats within the fabric, and let your dog sniff them out.
How to Make a Snuffle Mat:
- Use a rubber mat with holes (like a sink mat or bath mat).
- Tie strips of fabric through the holes to create a dense layer.
- Hide treats inside the fabric and let your dog find them.
Stuff old socks with treats or a tennis ball to create a simple toy.
It keeps your dog busy. It has to figure out how to get to the treat. It also provides mental stimulation.
This game helps calm anxious dogs by engaging their sniffing instinct. It encourages foraging.
19. Craft a Digging Box
If your dog loves to dig, make an indoor digging box.
Use a large container filled with shredded paper or blankets.
Bury toys or treats inside the box, and let your dog dig them out.
How to Make a Digging Box:
- Fill a large container with shredded paper, blankets, or sand.
- Bury toys or treats inside.
- Encourage your dog to dig and find the hidden treasures.
Fill muffin tins with tennis balls and hide treats underneath some of them.
Your dog has to figure out which tennis balls are hiding the treats, making it a fun and engaging puzzle.
This activity satisfies your dog’s digging instincts. It won’t ruin your yard or furniture.
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Sensory Enrichment
Dogs experience the world primarily through their senses, particularly their sense of smell.
Sensory enrichment activities can keep your dog mentally stimulated.
They prevent boredom and frustration.
20. Scent Games with Hidden Treats
Scent games are an excellent way to engage your dog’s mind.
Hide treats around your house and encourage your dog to sniff them out.
Start with easy-to-find spots. Then, as your dog improves, make it harder.
How to Play:
- Hide treats in different spots around your home.
- Let your dog sniff them out.
- Make the game more challenging by hiding treats in harder-to-reach places.
Hide treats around the house and let your dog sniff them out.
It’s a fun way to engage their sense of smell and give them a mental and physical workout.
Scent games are also ideal for anxious dogs or those with high energy.
Dogs rely on their sense of smell. It calms them to use it for problem-solving.
For a challenge, introduce new scents like peanut butter or cheese.
Place small bits of food in hard-to-find locations and watch your dog engage in the search.
These games focus your dog on a calming task.
This reduces stress and keeps them entertained for a long time.
21. Sound Identification Games
Play different sounds to stimulate your dog’s hearing. Encourage a reaction.
Record familiar sounds like the doorbell or your voice, then play them back to see how your dog reacts.
You can also train your dog to associate certain sounds with specific commands or tasks.
How to Play:
- Record sounds like your voice, doorbell, or household noises.
- Play the sounds back and watch your dog’s reaction.
- Use sound-based commands to reinforce training.
This activity improves your dog’s listening skills. It adds fun to regular training.
22. Watching Window Wildlife
Set up a cozy perch by a window where your dog can observe the outside world.
Birds, squirrels, and passing cars can provide hours of visual stimulation.
Some dogs love watching wildlife. It reduces their boredom and takes little effort.
How to Set Up:
- Add a comfortable bed or blanket near the window.
- Place bird feeders outside to attract birds and squirrels.
Watching wildlife satisfies your dog’s prey drive and engages their mind.
23. Texture Exploration Mats
Dogs love exploring new textures.
You can create a sensory mat with different fabrics or household items.
Use a rubber bath mat, towels, shaggy carpets, or textured doormats.
Let your dog walk on and explore them.
How to Make a Texture Mat:
- Lay down different materials such as towels, rugs, and mats.
- Encourage your dog to explore the different textures with their paws.
This activity engages their touch and curiosity. It is a fun, stimulating experience.
24. Calming Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy isn’t just for humans—dogs can enjoy calming scents too!
Some essential oils, like lavender or chamomile, can help relax dogs and reduce their anxiety.
Use a dog-safe diffuser or spray to lightly scent your dog’s bedding or favorite resting spot.
How to Use Aromatherapy:
- Use a dog-safe diffuser with essential oils like lavender or chamomile.
- Lightly spray your dog’s bedding with the scent.
- Observe how your dog responds to the calming effect.
Calming aromatherapy helps anxious dogs, especially during thunderstorms and fireworks.
Use a lavender-scented spray or a dog-safe diffuser to create a relaxing environment.
Be mindful of your dog’s reaction, and always ensure the essential oils used are safe for pets.
For added comfort, combine aromatherapy with a gentle brushing. It will help your dog wind down.
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Social and Calming Activities
Dogs are social creatures that thrive on interaction with their humans.
Sometimes, the best way to keep your dog happy indoors is by spending quality time together.
These calming activities reduce anxiety and strengthen your bond with your dog.
25. Dog Yoga (Doga)
Practicing yoga with your dog, or “doga,” is a calming way to bond with your pet.
Start with simple poses that involve your dog lying beside you, such as a child’s pose or downward dog.
Gently stretch your dog’s legs while you stretch, and give them plenty of praise during the session.
How to Practice Doga:
- Start with simple yoga poses while your dog lies beside you.
- Gently stretch your dog’s legs as part of the routine.
- Keep the session calm and rewarding by offering praise and treats.
Doga promotes relaxation and helps improve your dog’s flexibility and balance.
It’s especially great for senior dogs or dogs with anxiety.
26. Story Time Reading
Dogs love the sound of their owner’s voice, and reading aloud to your dog can be a soothing activity for both of you.
Settle down together in a comfy spot, grab a book, and let your dog relax while you read.
This is a great way to unwind after a busy day.
How to Set Up:
- Pick a calming spot with your dog’s bed or favorite blanket.
- Choose a book with a soothing tone.
- Let your dog relax while you read to them.
This simple activity strengthens your bond with your dog. It also helps create a peaceful environment.
27. Calm Cuddling Time
Sometimes all your dog wants is some affection.
Set aside time each day for quiet cuddling, whether it’s on the couch or in bed.
Gently pet your dog and talk to them in a soft voice, allowing them to relax and enjoy your company.
How to Enjoy Cuddle Time:
- Choose a quiet, comfortable spot for you and your dog.
- Gently pet and talk to your dog in a soothing voice.
- Let your dog relax beside you, enjoying the calm moment.
Practicing yoga with your dog is a relaxing activity.
Stretch alongside your dog and guide them into gentle poses like ‘downward dog.
It’s great for both relaxation and flexibility, especially for senior dogs.
This activity comforts dogs and reduces their anxiety.
It’s especially helpful for those with separation anxiety.
28. Dress-Up and Photoshoots
If your dog likes clothes or accessories, dress them up.
Then, have a fun photoshoot.
Choose cute outfits or themed costumes, and snap photos of your dog posing.
Many dogs enjoy the extra attention, and you’ll have adorable keepsakes.
How to Have a Photoshoot:
- Choose comfortable outfits for your dog.
- Stage a small photoshoot with fun props or themes.
- Take pictures and reward your dog with treats for posing.
Ensure your dog is comfy in their outfit. Reward them for cooperating during the photoshoot.
29. Gentle Brushing Sessions
Brushing your dog’s coat is relaxing.
It keeps them groomed and calms them.
Use a soft brush.
Gently stroke their fur with it.
Focus on the areas they like to be scratched.
This helps reduce shedding and gives your dog a spa-like experience.
How to Brush Your Dog:
- Use a soft brush to gently comb through your dog’s fur.
- Focus on areas your dog enjoys, like behind their ears or along their back.
- Reward them with praise or treats during the session.
Regular brushing keeps your dog’s coat healthy.
It also relaxes you both and strengthens your bond.
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Advanced Engagement
Once your dog has mastered the basics, it’s time to step up their game.
These advanced activities push your dog’s limits.
They are a deeper challenge that will keep your dog entertained and focused.
30. Teach a Toy Cleaning Up Game
Turn cleanup time into a fun game by teaching your dog to put their toys away.
Start by showing your dog how to pick up a toy and place it in a designated basket.
With practice, your dog will learn to help tidy their toys. This will turn a chore into a fun game.
How to Start:
- Place a toy close to the basket or box.
- Show your dog the toy and use the “drop it” command near the basket.
- Reward them when they place the toy in the container.
- Gradually move the toy further away and repeat.
This game helps reinforce obedience while also providing a mental challenge.
31. Setup a Webcam for Remote Interaction
If you have to leave your dog alone, setting up a webcam can help you interact with them remotely.
Some webcams come with treat dispensers or speakers that allow you to talk to your dog from afar.
This is especially helpful for dogs with separation anxiety.
How to Set Up:
- Use a webcam that includes a treat dispenser or microphone.
- Talk to your dog remotely and dispense treats when they follow commands.
This game provides comfort for dogs who are left alone, helping to ease anxiety.
32. Telephone Game with Your Voice
Record your voice on a device and hide it in another room.
Play the recording, and encourage your dog to “find” you by following the sound.
This activity is great for improving recall and encouraging your dog to come when called.
How to Play:
- Record your voice on a device with a command like “come” or “find me.”
- Hide the device in another room and play the recording.
- Encourage your dog to search for the sound and locate the device.
This game sharpens listening skills and recall, while adding a fun twist to hide and seek.
33. Create a Scent-Tracking Course
For dogs with a strong sense of smell, create a scent-tracking course indoors. Use strong-smelling treats to set up a “trail.”
Your dog will follow it to find a hidden prize.
How to Set It Up:
- Drag a piece of cloth soaked with dog-safe scent (like broth or bacon) across the floor.
- Lead the scent trail to a hidden treat or toy.
- Encourage your dog to follow the scent and find the prize.
This activity satisfies your dog’s tracking instincts and gives a mental workout.
34. Advanced Obstacle Course
Once your dog has mastered a basic agility course, it’s time to add more complexity.
Use weaving poles, balance beams, or even hoops to create a more challenging course.
This physical and mental challenge pushes your dog’s skills to the next level.
How to Build an Advanced Course:
- Use broomsticks or PVC pipes as weaving poles.
- Stack books under a board to create a balance beam.
- Set up chairs or a hula hoop for your dog to jump through.
Start with easy courses. Increase the difficulty as your dog gets comfortable.
35. Teach “Find It” Command
Teaching your dog to find objects on command taps into their hunting instincts. Hide a toy or treat in another room and use the “find it” command to prompt your dog to search for it.
How to Teach “Find It”:
- Show your dog the toy or treat and let them sniff it.
- Hide the object in an easy-to-find location.
- Say “find it!” and encourage your dog to search.
- Gradually increase the difficulty by hiding the object in harder-to-find places.
This activity hones your dog’s search and rescue instincts. It also keeps them mentally engaged.
36. Interactive Puzzle Boards
Interactive puzzle boards are designed to challenge your dog’s problem-solving skills.
These boards have compartments that your dog must slide, lift, or spin to reveal hidden treats.
You can make a DIY version using a cardboard box with “drawers” your dog needs to open to access treats.
How to Make a DIY Puzzle Board:
- Use a cardboard box with several compartments.
- Place treats inside the compartments and cover them with toys or lids.
- Encourage your dog to figure out how to open the compartments to reach the treats.
Puzzle boards are great for your dog’s mind. They can keep your dog busy for a long time.
37. Advanced Command Combos
Once your dog masters commands like sit, stay, and roll over, you can chain them into complex sequences.
Teaching your dog to follow commands in quick succession improves focus and obedience.
How to Build Command Combos:
- Start with two commands linked together (e.g., “sit” and “shake”).
- Add a third command once your dog constantly follows the sequence.
- Increase the length of the command sequence step by step. Reward your dog for completing the task.
This activity sharpens your dog’s mind and focus. It also reinforces their obedience.
Conclusion
These activities will keep your dog active even with limited outdoor time.
Regularly rotating games and adding new challenges will keep your dog happy.
It will also keep it well-behaved.
It will also keep its energy high.
A varied routine ensures your dog stays engaged, avoiding boredom and frustration.
To ensure your dog is well-adjusted, give it both.
Provide physical exercise and mental challenges. It’s not just about tiring them out.
It’s about enriching their lives and helping them thrive, indoors or outdoors.
These activities will also strengthen the bond with your dog.
As your dog gets used to these activities, don’t be afraid to switch things up.
Dogs thrive on variety.
So, rotate the games and increase their difficulty over time to keep them engaged.
Note which activities your dog enjoys most.
Adjust them as your dog ages or its energy levels change.
By doing this, you’ll not only enrich your dog’s life but also ensure they remain happy, healthy, and well-behaved.
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D: Fish
E: Vegetables
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