With all of the rain we have been experiencing, it’s sometimes difficult to get outside and go for a walk or run or go to the dog park.
The pent up energy for both humans and animals can sometimes drive us all stir crazy! So here are some ideas to keep the pup in your life entertained during wet weather.
Play Physical Games with Your Dog
Dogs of all sizes love games! Consider playing Hide and Go Seek with your pooch. Dogs who can stay while you hide will love the thrill of trying to find you.
Dogs with less training or attention span can be distracted by a ball or treat while you hide! Consider closets, furniture, beds, or even blankets as spots to escape while your dog looks for you!
Grab a rope, dog toy, or twisted towel and play tug o’ war with your dog. The physical activity is fun for both of you and can be played over and over. Let your dog grab the rope from you and toss it back and forth in its mouth while you try to grab it. Toss it gently and turn this into fetch and tug o’war.
Speaking of fetch, long hallways are great places to throw toys, stuffies, or balls for your dog to bring back. As long as there aren’t any breakable objects, you can make an adventure out of playing ball from the comfort of your own couch, bed, or floor!
Use Puzzles or Games to Stimulate Your Dog’s Mind
Whether you invest in plastic or rubber puzzle games or create your own, your dog will go nuts for puzzle games! Store bought games that have your pooch manipulating puzzle pieces to get to a tasty treat are self-motivating and a lot of fun for both you and your pooch to partake in.
Or, get creative and find your own plastic cups, containers, or boxes and hide treats under those. Have your dog watch you place a treat under plastic cups and move them around and let him find the treat on his own!
For a different experience, have your dog leave the room while you hide a treat under a pillow, behind a toy, or on a piece of furniture. See how long it takes for your dog to find the prized delicacy! Then play the game again! Using small treats or pieces of treats can ensure your dog stays motivated and keeps her figure without filling up!
Chill out and Watch a Movie
What dog doesn’t enjoy spending time with his best friend? When the forecast calls for rain or windy conditions, stay in jammies and turn on a movie or two while your dog snuggles up next to you.
Even if you are a “dogs on the floor not the bed” kind of person, time next to you while getting some serious belly rubs with a fire in the fireplace are every dog’s dream.
Bake Some Treats!
The internet is full of dog friendly treats or human treats that are safe for dogs! Baking is always a fun activity to perform on a cold, winter day. But the best part as we all know is tasting the treats!
Just remember chocolate is not safe for dogs but delicious for humans!
Here is a dog and human safe recipe we think you will both enjoy! Happy tastings!