5+ Indoor Activities To Keep Your Pup Happy and Entertained All Winter Long
Nov 20, 2023
It's hard to believe, but winter is almost here. As temperatures grow colder and the days become shorter, our pups may find their usual, everyday outdoor adventures curtailed. But while the weather may be changing, their need for daily activity remains the same. How can we make sure our pups stay happy and entertained during the coldest months of the year when we can't exactly spend as much time outside as we'd like? Simple: move things indoors!
We've compiled some of the most engaging indoor activities for you to try with your pup this winter season. These activities are designed to help beat the chill and keep both you and your dog in high spirits when the weather outside is frightful.
Hide and Seek
Ask any child and they'll tell you there's nothing quite like a good game of hide and seek - and dogs are no exception! Playing a few rounds will help keep your pup entertained, and will also provide them exceptional exercise, even while indoors.
Have your dog stay in one room while you hide in another. Find a hiding spot, call your pup and let the fun begin as they sniff and search for you. You can also hide their favorite toy or treats to make it even more exciting.
Did You Know? Experts say 20 minutes of sniffing is equivalent to an hour of hour's walk for our dogs.
Indoor Fetch
You may not be able to spend hours outside throwing a ball around, but there's no reason why our pups still can't enjoy a good round of fetch during the cold winter months.
Create a safe and open space for a game of indoor fetch. Use soft, lightweight toys to prevent accidents, and steer clear of any furniture or décor that you don't want to risk damaging.
This is a great way to expend energy when outdoor play is limited. Your pup will be tired in no time!
Dog Puzzles
There are plenty of engaging and stimulating puzzles for dogs available on Amazon, and likely at your local pet store too. But if you don't feel like spending the money, get creative and try creating some DIY dog puzzles instead.
You can use empty cardboard boxes, muffin tins, or even plastic bottles to create interactive treat puzzles. Simply fill them with your dog's favorite treats or kibble, add some other elements to prevent immediate access to the treats (such as balls, Kongs, or other toys) and watch them puzzle their way to the good stuff!
Another really effective and simple DIY dog puzzle is to to take an old, clean dish towel and roll it up with some dog treats sprinkled inside. You can even tie the ends in a little knot to make it even more complex. Then, give your dog the towel and watch as they work diligently to unravel it and earn their well-deserved treats.
Doggy Playdates
Your dog isn't the only one out there who needs some energy burned during the cold winter season.
Arrange playdates with friends or neighbors who also have dogs. Indoor playdates can be a great way for dogs to socialize and burn off energy together. Just make sure you have plenty of room for play, as they're bound to wear each other out!
Homemade Agility Course
Agility courses provide a plethora of benefits for your dog, from increasing their endurance to preventing obesity. And just because you can't set up a little course outside doesn't mean you have to abandon your dog's "training" altogether.
Get creative with household items to build a mini agility course for your dog indoors. Use broomsticks, hula hoops, and small tunnels for your pup to navigate. All that hopping, crawling, and running around is sure to wipe your energized pup right out.
Training Sessions
The winter months provide the perfect opportunity to brush up on old tricks, or even teach new your pup some new tricks. Short, positive training sessions not only mentally stimulate your dog but also strengthen your bond.
And don't forget the treats! Every training session needs some tasty rewards.
Winter may bring some frosty temperatures, but it also offers an opportunity for indoor adventures and quality time with your dog. By incorporating these indoor activities into your routine, you can ensure your pup stays entertained, happy, and physically active. Once you've worn them out, you can snuggle up on the couch and enjoy some quality time with your best, furriest pal.
There's nothing better than enjoying a tasty treat during the coldest months of the year. Your pet spoils you all year-round, and Wufers' "Wanna Build a Snowman?" Cookie Box is the perfect way to love them back!
Baked in our own North American bakery using locally sourced, human-grade ingredients, each gourmet dog treat is individually wrapped for sharing, gift-giving, or saving for later.
