Winter often presents challenges for dog owners, as freezing temperatures and dreary weather make outdoor play nearly impossible. When you’re stuck inside, low-energy games become a lifesaver. These activities not only keep your dog entertained but also provide valuable mental stimulation—often more effective at tiring them out than physical exercise.
Think about it: how many times have you taken your dog for a long walk or let them run outside, only to find they still have energy to burn? Physical exercise is great but doesn’t always fully engage your dog. On the other hand, problem-solving games or focused training can leave your pup calm and satisfied. Engaging their brain challenges them in ways a simple walk or game of fetch cannot, making mental activities essential for a well-rounded routine.
In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite low-energy games to keep your dog mentally engaged and strengthen your bond during the chilly winter months. From puzzle toys to creative activities, there’s something here for dogs of all ages and energy levels. Whether it’s snowing or raining, these tried-and-true indoor games are perfect for keeping your dog happy, entertained, and thriving when outdoor play isn’t an option. Let’s dive in!
Basic Obedience
Practice Commands
The simplest option to start with is practicing the basic commands your dog already knows, focusing on extending the duration of their “stay.” Regular practice not only reinforces these commands but also makes them more useful in your daily life. One of our favorites is the “Place” command, as it has endless practical applications.
The “Place” command involves teaching your dog to go to a designated spot—typically their bed or a cot (avoid using the crate)—and stay there until released. This helps keep your dog out of the way while practicing their “stay” and makes the command more reliable. Dogs tend to stay more willingly on a specific spot than in a general position like “down,” where they may try to crawl around.
Name Recognition
Teaching your dog name recognition is another excellent way to engage their mind. While most dogs respond to their names, they may not fully understand or associate it with themselves—especially if you use multiple nicknames. Teaching name recognition not only solidifies their understanding of their name but also trains them to focus on you when called.
Step 1: Basic Name Recognition
Start by calling your dog’s name and rewarding them with a treat when they look at you. Repeat this process several times, allowing your dog to get distracted between repetitions. Once they respond consistently, move on to adding distractions.
Step 2: Adding Distractions
Hold a treat in each hand and extend one arm out to the side to draw their attention. Call your dog’s name, and when they look back at you, reward them with a treat from the hand near your chest. Repeat this, switching arms, until they focus on you consistently despite distractions.
Step 3: Increasing the Challenge
For the final step, extend both arms out to the sides while holding treats. Call your dog’s name and reward them when they focus on you instead of the treats. This exercise strengthens their ability to ignore distractions and focus on you, providing valuable mental stimulation.
Touch or Target Training
“Touch” or “target” is a simple yet versatile command that can be expanded to include fun tasks like pressing buttons, closing doors, or even turning lights on and off.
To teach this, start by holding your hand near your dog. When they touch it with their nose, mark the behavior with “Good!” and reward them. Repeat this until they consistently touch your hand, then introduce the verbal cue “touch” or “target.” As they improve, hold your hand farther away to make it more challenging. This command is fun, practical, and a great way to mentally engage your pup.
Teach New Tricks
If you’re up for a challenge, teaching your dog a new trick or two can be incredibly rewarding. Tricks are not only fun but also provide valuable mental stimulation and a great way to bond with your pup. If you need ideas, check out our blog on “Stop Teaching the ‘Paw’ Trick” for some unique and creative options.
Creative Games Using Household Items
Hide Snacks in a Towel
If your dog isn’t a destructive chewer, hiding treats or kibble in a towel is a simple and fun way to keep them entertained. Lay a towel flat on the ground, scatter treats across it, and roll or fold the towel to hide the goodies. Let your dog sniff it out and work to retrieve the treats. For an added challenge, freeze the towel with treats inside before giving it to your pup!
Muffin Tin Game
For a more structured activity, use a muffin tin. Place treats in each cup and cover them with balls or toys. Let your dog sniff out the treats and uncover them by moving the obstacles. If they’re struggling, leave one cup uncovered to give them a hint. This game provides mental stimulation and keeps your dog engaged.
The Cup Game
Adapt the classic cup game for your dog! Hide a treat under one of three upside-down cups, shuffle them around, and let your dog sniff out the treat. If they find it difficult, start with one cup and build up to three as they catch on. This game challenges their problem-solving skills and sharpens their focus.
Hide and Seek
Another classic game is hide-and-seek, which can be played with the help of a second person. Have one person hold your dog while you hide, then release them with the command “Go find [name]!” Reward your pup with treats and praise when they find you. Start with easy hiding spots and increase the difficulty as they improve.
Interactive Toys
Stuffed Kong or Chew Toy
The Kong toy remains a classic for a reason! Stuff it with peanut butter, yogurt, or kibble and freeze it for long-lasting entertainment. The licking action provides mental stimulation and soothes your dog, making it a great option for calming them down during indoor days.
Treat Dispensing Ball
Treat-dispensing balls are another great option. Fill them with kibble or small treats and let your dog roll the ball to release the goodies. Rubber balls are preferable to plastic as they’re gentler on your dog’s mouth and double as regular toys when treats aren’t involved.
Lick Mats
Lick mats are designed to soothe dogs during stressful situations but can also be used for fun. Spread peanut butter or yogurt over the mat and let your dog lick it clean. Some lick mats come with suction cups, making them perfect for distracting your dog during bath time.
Snuffle Mats or Puzzle Toys
Snuffle mats encourage dogs to sniff and forage for hidden treats, while puzzle toys challenge them to solve tasks to access their rewards. Snuffle mats are quick to set up, while puzzle toys offer more complex mental stimulation, making them both excellent options for indoor fun.
Conclusion
With so many engaging options, keeping your dog entertained and mentally stimulated during the winter months is easier than ever. From simple training exercises to interactive toys, these activities can help strengthen your bond while ensuring your pup stays happy and calm indoors.
We’d love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments which activities you’ve tried and which new ones you’re excited to introduce to your dog!
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