Inclement Weather - How to Entertain your Dog in the Home
Friends of the Dog
Friends of the Dog
When the rain is pouring down, or the days grow shorter, colder, and more unpleasant, we tend to walk and play with our dogs less. Instead, we often prefer to cuddle up on the sofa. That may suit us just fine—but what about your dog?
Although your dog might love spending more time with you, they still need both mental and physical stimulation. A bored dog is far more likely to become demanding at home, seeking constant attention. Unfortunately, to a dog, any attention—whether positive or negative—is still attention. So, the more you respond, even by shouting or giving in, the more that demanding behavior is reinforced, making it even more likely to recur.
Left unstimulated, your dog may create their own entertainment—and not in ways you'd approve of! Chewing on shoes, soft furnishings, or furniture legs, and tearing around the house with stolen items (even toilet paper!) are all common behaviors. These antics inevitably get a reaction from you, which again reinforces the behavior.
So, what can you do when you're home?
These are just a few of our favorite boredom-busting tools and games. A quick online search will reveal even more fun ideas to try. Enjoy keeping your dog happy and engaged, no matter the weather!
Although your dog might love spending more time with you, they still need both mental and physical stimulation. A bored dog is far more likely to become demanding at home, seeking constant attention. Unfortunately, to a dog, any attention—whether positive or negative—is still attention. So, the more you respond, even by shouting or giving in, the more that demanding behavior is reinforced, making it even more likely to recur.
Left unstimulated, your dog may create their own entertainment—and not in ways you'd approve of! Chewing on shoes, soft furnishings, or furniture legs, and tearing around the house with stolen items (even toilet paper!) are all common behaviors. These antics inevitably get a reaction from you, which again reinforces the behavior.
So, what can you do when you're home?
- Get outside, even briefly: Try to take your dog out, even if only for 10 minutes. Let them sniff to their heart’s content—a short walk around the block can make a big difference. You may find it surprising, but scenting/sniffing activities and exercises can make a dog feel as tires as a fast paced walk - it does not take the place of physical exercise however!
- Take a drive: A ride in the car can be surprisingly enriching. We knew a lady whose disabled Border Collie wasn’t satisfied by indoor games alone. She would drive slowly around the local park with the window partly open. If something caught the dog’s attention, she’d slow down or stop briefly. Occasionally, she’d park by the grass and let the dog sniff around a small area. This routine made a huge difference—once home, the dog would nap contentedly.
- Chew toys: These are invaluable, especially those that can be filled with tasty treats. Chewing satisfies instinctual needs, reduces boredom, and provides mental stimulation. It also helps release calming, mood-boosting endorphins. Our favourites are Peanut Stuffer, Kong and Squirrel Dude Busy Buddy.
- Puzzle toys and games: These not only challenge your dog mentally but also strengthen your bond when played together. These are best used under supervision and our prefeered range is those of Nina Ottossen, which we use ourselves.
- Avoid unsafe toys like water bottles: While many dogs love the crunch of plastic bottles, they can break and create sharp edges or swallowing hazards (especially caps). Instead, try the Crunchcore toy—it provides that satisfying sound without the risks.
- Try the Foobler Pop Shot Toy: This interactive toy holds about ¼ cup of kibble or treats and includes a timer that goes off between 30 seconds and 3 minutes, making a noise to engage your dog. Your dog can also bat it around for added fun and stimulation.
- Kibble container game: If you have a tiled area, place kibble under a hard plastic or metal circular container. Your dog will love pushing it around to get the food underneath. You can set up multiple containers and help your dog learn the game.
- Treat-dispensing ball toys: These come in various shapes, including round and hexagonal designs. As your dog rolls the ball, treats are released, encouraging movement and mental engagement.
- Scenting games: These are simple yet highly effective. Start by placing a treat just ahead of your dog and use a cue like “findies.” Gradually increase the distance and difficulty. Eventually, you can hide treats throughout the house to satisfy your dog’s natural scenting and foraging instincts.
- Hide and Seek: A fantastic game for both of you! Start easy—let your dog watch you hide behind a curtain, then call out, “Find me! Find me!” Praise enthusiastically when they do. As your dog gets the hang of it, you can make the game more challenging. Most dogs will start using their nose to locate you.
These are just a few of our favorite boredom-busting tools and games. A quick online search will reveal even more fun ideas to try. Enjoy keeping your dog happy and engaged, no matter the weather!
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