Keeping your dog entertained when he has to stay indoors for too long can be challenging. And trying to find new ways to entertain your faithful dog can be more exhausting than getting up and doing it. Bored dogs get into trouble. You’re their main source of entertainment, so if you don’t give them things to do, they’ll come up with activities of their own and that’s when you end up with chewed up shoes and curtains.
By playing with your furry friend a few times a day, you can decrease the likelihood that he will develop destructive habits, such as excessive barking or chewing. So if you are looking for indoor entertainment to amuse your dog, you have come to the right place. Here’s a list of things to keep your dog entertained while he’s stuck inside for so long.
You can play dress up with your faithful dog. From cheeky sweaters, coats and jackets to themed costumes, there is nothing cuter than seeing your furry friend bouncing around in their favorite outfits. But remember, playing dress-up is all about allowing your furry friend to flaunt his unique style and sense of fashion. Adding a bow or bandana can enhance the look of that SoWaggy dog, making them happy.
Provide ways your faithful dog can look through a window or door. Open curtains or blinds on a back window in your house so your little best friend can see what’s going on outside your house. If you have a small dog or toy breed, place a cushion or chair by the window so your dog can see comfortably.
To keep your dog entertained indoors, try playing interactive games like tossing, finding treats, puzzle games, and searching. Interactive games are an easy way to give your faithful dog plenty of mental stimulation and can help reduce problem behaviors such as excessive chewing or barking. If you want to play fetch inside, use a lightweight ball to avoid breaking all things. A game of tossing can be a lot of fun for both you and your dog, and is one of the best ways to increase your dog’s manners and impulse control. It is also a pretty good exercise. Minute by minute, it’s one of the most physically demanding games you can play.
Stimulate your dog’s mind and develop problem-solving skills by playing the “shell game.” Place three plastic cups face down on the floor and hide a treat under one of the cups. Move the cups around each other as your dog watches the movements. Then see if you can find the cup with your reward.
Create your own obstacle course inside your house. Have your dog jump on some towels or cushions, weave his toys together, and then lie down on a blanket. Use your imagination and create a series of not-so-difficult obstacles for your puppy to follow. Once your furry friend has learned to jump on towels, move on to the toy fabric. Building on previous tricks will keep your dog focused and mentally stimulated.
Do an indoor scavenger hunt. Get your furry friend to find his food by hiding stuffed food puzzle toys or small piles of his kibble around your house. Spread a couple of handfuls of kibble in the areas where your dog hangs out during the day and he’ll have fun hunting for his treats. You can also hide one of his meals or a puzzle to make it entertaining for him.
Hiding treats around the house or playing hide and seek with your furry friend is a fun way to add an extra mental boost to your routine. It is one of the most versatile games that you can play with your dog.
Chase bubbles with your furry friend. It’s such an easy way to keep your furry friend happy, entertained, and exercised. Some wagging dogs love catching bubbles. You don’t even have to go out and buy special bubbles for your dog, the bubbles that are available for children are not toxic or you can make your own with soap or detergent.
Turn on your television on the Animal Planet station and turn up the volume. The sights and sounds of barking dogs help stimulate your dog’s brain in a quiet home, preventing him from finding ways to get into trouble.
Build a doghouse with your dog. Dogs love to snuggle up in a cozy space. Whether it’s stacking blankets with his favorite toys or renovating his guest room into his own doggy rug, your dog will be very happy to have his own little sanctuary to retreat to.