8 Ways to Stay Active With Your Dog Indoors

When winter hits, it’s easy to find yourself spending less time outside with your dog. Taking them for a walk is the ultimate way to get them moving, but sometimes, getting out of the house just isn’t in the cards. Whether it’s a snowstorm, icy sidewalks, or simply hating the cold, there are plenty of reasons you might want to stay cozy inside. But keeping your pup active and entertained indoors is key for their physical and mental health. Here are some fun games to keep both you and your dog engaged while you’re stuck indoors.

1. FETCH

Fetch doesn’t get much simpler than this. Sure, your mom probably told you not to play ball indoors, but with a little space and a soft ball, it’s totally doable—especially if you have a smaller dog. If you’re tight on room, just use something soft that won’t roll too far.

2. FIND IT

If space is tight, “Find It” is a perfect alternative to fetch. Show your dog a treat, then have them sit and stay while you hide it in another room. Dogs love hunting for food, so this game will keep them busy for ages. Start with easy hiding spots, then make it more challenging as they get better at it. If you have a breed with a strong nose, get creative with your hiding spots. Just don’t forget where you’ve hidden everything, or you might be discovering surprise snacks under the couch weeks later!

3. TUG OF WAR

Tug of war is another fun way to keep your dog entertained indoors. Just be sure to play safely! Set some rules—your dog should only start tugging when you give the signal, and they should drop the toy when you tell them to. This is also a great way to practice basic commands. If things get too rough (like teeth on skin), it’s time to end the game. Dogs can get a little carried away if they think they’re in control, so make sure they understand the boundaries.

4. HIDE AND SEEK

This classic childhood game is just as fun for dogs! Have your dog sit and stay while you hide in another room, then call them to find you. When they do, reward them with a treat and hide again. Keep some treats in a bag to avoid any mess from loose crumbs!

5. MUFFIN TIN GAME

This game gives your dog a mental workout. Take a muffin tin and place a treat in a few cups. Then, cover all the cups with tennis balls or dog toys. Your dog will have to figure out how to get to the treats. Some dogs will carefully pull out the balls, others will use their noses, and some might just flip the whole tin over. If you have a big dog, be ready for a bit of chaos—so maybe move any fragile items out of the way!

6. GO WILD AND FREEZE

This game helps with training while burning some energy. Get your dog excited, then stop suddenly and tell them to sit. When they settle, say “Go wild!” and get them riled up again, then freeze and make them sit. Vary the time between “wild” and “freeze,” and your dog will start to learn how to listen, even when they’re excited. By the time you say “freeze,” they should be sitting or lying down—though still probably shaking with excitement!

7. GROOMING TIME

Not the most thrilling game, but definitely productive! Give your dog a mini spa day: brush their coat, give them a bath, and trim their nails. Some dogs love the pampering, while others don’t, but they all benefit from a little TLC now and then.

8. TRAINING

If you have a puppy, indoor time is perfect for teaching basic commands. Simple tricks like “sit,” “stay,” and “roll over” can be mastered in your living room, and they’ll help tire out your energetic pup. For dogs that already know the basics, spice things up by teaching them a few new tricks. Try “high five” if they already know “shake,” or teach them to play dead if they’ve mastered “roll over.” You and your dog will stay entertained for hours, and the hardest part will be keeping their attention!