Winnipeg, November 28, 2023 - Keeping an energetic dog engaged indoors can be both fun and beneficial. Here are five creative activities you can try:
Indoor Agility Course: Set up a makeshift agility course using household items like chairs, tunnels made of boxes or blankets, cones, or even hula hoops. Teach your dog to jump over, crawl under, or weave through these obstacles. This engages their mind and body, providing a great workout.
Hide and Seek: Hide treats or toys around the house, encouraging your dog to find them. Start with easy hiding spots and gradually increase the difficulty. This game stimulates their sense of smell and gives them mental stimulation while burning off energy.
DIY Dog Puzzles: Create DIY puzzle toys using cardboard boxes, muffin tins, or PVC pipes. Hide treats or kibble inside and challenge your dog to figure out how to get them out. This mental stimulation can help tire them out and provide a fun challenge.
Tug-of-War or Fetch: Engage in classic games like tug-of-war or fetch. Use soft toys or rope toys for tug-of-war, ensuring you establish clear rules to prevent over-excitement or aggression. For fetch, consider using soft indoor balls or toys to prevent damage to household items.
Interactive Training Sessions: Dedicate time to teach your dog new tricks or reinforce existing commands. Use positive reinforcement techniques like clicker training or treats to keep them engaged and mentally stimulated. Learning new skills can be both mentally and physically taxing for an energetic dog.
Remember, safety is crucial during these activities. Ensure the environment is safe for your dog and that any items used in the activities are dog-friendly and won’t pose a risk of choking or injury. Always supervise your dog during playtime and stop the activity if it becomes too overwhelming or if your dog shows signs of fatigue or discomfort.