Save for a Rainy Day: Indoor Activities to Keep Your Dog Happy and Active
Rainy days in sunny Southern California might be rare, but when they do arrive, it can feel like our usual routines are disrupted. Instead of dwelling on the weather change, let's turn those rainy days into opportunities for fun and mental stimulation for your pup!
When outdoor walks and playtime are put on hold, mental exercises step in as the perfect alternative to keep your dog engaged and happy during their time inside. Not only does mental stimulation consume energy, but it's also a swift method to release the pent-up energy from your pup being indoors all day. Embracing mental stimulation not only encourages positive behavior but also acts as a way to prevent stress and keep any destructive tendencies in your furry pals under control.
Try these activities when rainy days feel ruff!
Treat-Tied Towel:
Roll up treats or kibble in a towel, and tie it into a knot. This will turn into a puzzle that challenges your pup's problem-solving skills as they try to get the treats or kibble inside! Since mental exercise can be as beneficial as physical exercise, spending just 20 minutes engaging your pup's mind is equivalent to an hour of play.
Lick Mat with Frozen Treats:
Create a lick mat with your pup’s favorite food groups, including pumpkin, banana, peanut butter, and even plain greek yogurt. Spread these yummy treats all over the lick mat and freeze it to occupy your pup for up to 40 minutes. Don’t have a lick mat handy? You can use your pup’s very own dog bowl! You can spread yogurt or peanut butter along the sides of the bowl, sprinkle some dog food or small snacks as a second layer, and add some water before freezing it!
Hide and Seek:
Scatter treats around the house, prompting your dog to search and discover. Release a new treat once they find the last one, throwing them in different directions for added excitement. If you don’t want to use food, turn this game into classic hide and seek by hiding in various rooms and areas yourself. Your pup will love the challenge of finding you!
Rainy days are the perfect opportunity to strengthen your bond with your furry friend through engaging and stimulating indoor activities. Embrace the rain and turn it into a day of joyful mental exercises for your pup!
