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There are times when taking your dog out for a walk just isn’t feasible—whether it’s due to bad weather, illness, or other interruptions. However, dogs, especially active breeds like Australian Shepherds, Beagles, and Golden Retrievers, still need regular physical activity and mental stimulation. Without it, they may become restless or even develop depressive behaviours. To help your furry friend stay happy and engaged, try exploring fun alternatives to outdoor walks. From brain-teasing games to agility activities, there are plenty of options to keep your dog entertained both physically and mentally. Here are some creative tips and tricks that will make bad-weather days enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Fun Activities for Your Dog in the House or Garden
1. Teach New Commands
Cold weather or limited mobility is the perfect time to teach your dog new tricks or revisit old ones. Learning new commands provides mental stimulation, which can be especially rewarding for older dogs who enjoy the challenge.
2. Indoor and Outdoor Search Games
Search games are a favourite activity among dogs and can easily be adapted for indoor or outdoor play. Hide treats around the house and send your dog on a sniffing adventure. Outdoors, scatter treats across the lawn, near trees, or inside flower pots. These games improve your dog’s concentration while keeping them engaged and happy.
3. Fetch Games
Fetch is a classic game that’s great for both physical and mental stimulation. Use a treat-filled dummy, a ball, or even your dog’s favourite toy. Whether you play in the garden or indoors, fetching provides exercise and strengthens your dog’s obedience. If you’re limited on space inside, try shorter distances but increase the number of rounds to keep things exciting.
4. DIY Sniffing Rugs
Sniffing rugs or "sniffing meadows" are fantastic tools for mental stimulation. They’re designed for hiding treats, giving your dog a chance to “hunt” indoors. You can purchase a sniffing rug or make one yourself using a towel. Simply sprinkle treats on the towel, fold it up, and add more treats in each fold. This simple and inexpensive activity keeps your dog entertained while encouraging problem-solving.
5. Tugging Games
Tugging games are great for strengthening your dog’s muscles and burning off energy, especially if your dog loves a good challenge. Any sturdy item that can be gripped on both ends—like a rope toy—can work as a tug toy. You can even combine tugging with fetch for an added twist. Just make sure to set clear boundaries and maintain control during the game.
6. Outdoor Agility Training
Agility training is an exciting way to challenge your dog’s mind and body. Set up a slalom course, tire jumps, or other obstacles in your garden using a purchased agility set or a DIY version. These activities improve your dog’s coordination and keep them physically active.
7. Indoor Agility
If you don’t have outdoor space, you can create an agility course indoors. Use your body as an obstacle by teaching your dog to weave through your legs or jump over your arm. These activities not only provide exercise but also strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
8. DIY Treat Dispenser
A simple plastic bottle can be turned into a brain-teasing food dispenser. Cut holes into a clean, empty bottle and fill it with treats. The holes should be big enough for treats to fall out as the bottle rolls. Let your dog figure out how to release the treats by rolling it around. Be sure to supervise so your dog doesn’t chew on the bottle.
Final Thoughts
Bad weather doesn’t have to mean boredom for your dog. With these creative indoor and outdoor activities, you can keep your pet happy, active, and mentally stimulated. Just remember to balance treats with their regular meals to avoid overfeeding. Enjoy bonding with your furry friend as you explore these fun and enriching games!
