Discussing The Best Ways To Keep Your Dogs Entertained Indoors During The Frigid Winter Months

Generally speaking, dogs are very athletic creatures. They need routine exercise on a daily basis in order to stay happy and healthy. However, this can prove to be difficult during the frigid & snowy winter months. That’s why we suggest creating some indoor activities for your dog to do instead!

This article will discuss some different types of indoor activities you can do with your dog. These activities are designed to challenge your dog both physically and mentally. The idea is to give them physical exercise while mentally stimulating them too.

A Few Ideas

Here are just a few general indoor playtime ideas for you and your dog. These are just our suggestions. Feel free to tweak or adjust these ideas to match your dog’s needs, interests, and capabilities. 

Find The Toy

This is a simple, yet very entertaining game for your dog to play. First, you present your dog with one of their favorite toys. Then, you have them sit and stay in the room while you go hide the toy. Once you’ve hidden the toy, return to your dog and have them go find it.

You can start slowly by hiding the toy in the same room or in front of them. Your dog will get exercise from running around and searching for the toy. Additionally, they will also be mentally stimulated as they look in every potential hiding spot for their toy. 

If your dog is food motivated, try using a toy that you can put treats inside. This way, your dog is also rewarded when they find the toy.  

Hide & Seek

Another fun activity to play with your dog is a game of hide & seek. Similar to the children’s game of hide & seek, you hide and then your dog has to come find you. Your dog will get some exercise from running around the house looking for you. But, they will also be mentally stimulated as they have to use their nose and memory to find you. 

Again, if your dog is food motivated, bring some treats with you when you hide. This way, you can immediately reward your furry friend when they find you. 

D.I.Y. Obstacle Course

Most dog parks offer some kind of agility and/or obstacle course to test a dog’s athletic capability. But, you don’t need to be outside to have an obstacle course! We suggest creating your own D.I.Y. obstacle course in your home for your dog. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy as long as it does the job.

Utilize whatever you have around the house. This includes furniture, couch cushions, pillows, cardboard boxes, etc. For a more comprehensive guide to creating an indoor dog obstacle course, click here. 

Fetch On The Stairs

One of the simplest, yet physically stimulating indoor activities for your dog is playing “fetch on the stairs.” The concept is easy. First, you and your dog stand at the bottom of the stairs. Second, you throw their favorite ball up to the top of the stairs. Then, they run up the stairs to retrieve the ball. Lastly, they bring the ball back. Repeat. 

Keep in mind that this activity involves your dog running up and down the steps a lot. You should only play this game if your dog is in good physical shape to do so. Additionally, only play this game if your steps are in good shape for this activity. Carpeted steps are preferred, but not necessary. 

Why Pet Entertainment Is Important

These kinds of indoor activities are very important, especially during the winter. These kinds of activities help enrich your dog’s life by engaging them both physically and mentally. Without this stimulation, your dog can become bored, anxious, and/or depressed.

Additionally, these kinds of activities will deter your dog from bad behavior like chewing, digging, jumping on people, excessive barking, and destructive behavior. Keeping your dog well entertained during winter will keep your dog happy, healthy, and well behaved. 

Hire A Pet Sitter Today!

Pets need regular stimulation to stay happy and mentally healthy. If you don’t have the time to regularly stimulate your pets, then consider hiring a professional pet sitter! Here at Stay At Home Pet Services, we offer quality pet sitting services at competitive prices. We have over 10 years of experience, our sitters are certified in pet first aid & CPR, and we love all pets as if they were our own.

We are located in Cincinnati, OH and service the following areas of East Walnut Hills, Hyde Park, Mt Lookout, Oakley, Norwood, Kennedy Heights, Pleasant Ridge, Tusculum, East End, Mariemont, Fairfax, Madisonville, Mt Washington, Dillonvale, Deer Park, Silverton, Kenwood, Madeira, Indian Hill, and Anderson Township.

Click here to become a client today or give us a call at 513-706-7702. Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Instagram too! We post everyday, so make sure you follow us so you don’t miss out on any adorable pet pictures.