Dogs love to play, so do we.
They always want us to spend time or pay attention to them at any cost, and we prefer either grooming or playing for quality time.
But, is it possible to play games outside all the time? Not at all.
Whether it’s a rainy or sunny day, weather conditions may not always be favorable for outdoor fun. Or in situations such as meetings or during a dog’s post-injury recovery phase, an owner can’t take them out for a play.
That’s where indoor games for dogs come in… especially for puppies and adolescent dogs with tons of energy to burn.
In the case of unburned energy, they tend to search for new ways to reduce their boredom, often ending up chewing things you don’t want them to, such as your favorite shoes or furniture.
Or,
Totally Other unethical behavior such as excessive barking or aggressiveness.
Table of Contents
Why Indoor Games Are Important for Dogs?
Like earlier said, everyday may not be perfect for outdoor play. If we’re stuck at home and don’t have anything to do, we get bored. The exact same applies to dogs.
Dogs thrive on routine, and in a situation where the weather or a health limits outdoor activity, they may be struggling to enjoy themself. This directly leads to boredom.
Without physical and mental stimulation, dogs suffer from pent-up energy. This situation leads a different destructive behaviors that owners can only prevent by introducing various indoor games. Games such as hide and seek, tug of war, and scent work not only keep them engaged but strengthen the bond you share.
What’s better than strengthening a bond just by playing with them?
Best Indoor Dog Games
If outdoor games aren’t an option, keeping dogs mentally and physically engaged is crucial. That’s why indoor games are the perfect solution.
To help dog owners, we HugsyPetsNepal have come up with 5 interesting indoor games that your dog will love to play. Let’s dig into it:
Hide and seek
This classic game isn’t just for children, dogs too love it!
But the sad part is that if dogs don’t understand basic commands, it can ruin everything. This includes sit, stay, and come.
If so,
Firstly, working on strengthening their understanding of basic commands which will be beneficial to enjoy the game. Then you can lead them to stay in one room, and then you hide in another place. Once you’ve found the perfect hiding spot, call them to come and find you.
Locating you will be fun for them! Adding treats to the process makes it more interesting. Also, make sure to change location at every time to upgrade the challenge.
Dog with separation anxiety may not find this game suitable. Instead, try other games such as Tug of War. On the other hand, avoid slippery floors for this game to risks for you and your dogs.
Treat Puzzles
We’ve been mentioning mental stimulation is as crucial as physical stimulation in dogs ( you can find it in this link). For this, nothing can works better than treat puzzles.
Basically, treat puzzles is a toys designed to challenge dogs brain. Just by adding their favorite treats inside them, and let them figure out how to retrieve them at their own pace.
You don’t even have to spend money on this! You can make your own treat puzzle by taking a plastic bottle, poking holes in it, and letting your dog push it around until the treats fall out.
Tug of War
You may find dog trainers encouraging game treats instead of food treats for positive reinforcement. They especially used tug of war…Right?
Most dogs love these games, especially those mouth-driven breeds. Humans enjoy it too!
For the tug of war game, find your dog’s favorite toy and ensure it is long and thin or a rope. Encourage them to play freely.
An interested dog will start to catch with their mouth and start pulling it. If so, hold the other end for a better engagement. Control your dog’s movement and give them chance to win the game. Gently tugging keeps them motivated and engaged.
You can make it interesting by pulling them side by side, rotating and dragging them back. If your dog pulls really hard, then react accordingly to keep it interesting and challenging.
Additionally, you can teach “leave it” command while playing tug-of-war.
Indoor Fetch
Who says fetch is just an outdoor game? It works indoors too with some adjustments.
Another most loved game by the dog is fetch, and can be enjoyed indoors with soft balls or toys that won’t damage the household.
Like tug-of-war, dogs need to find it interesting to play it, and then only you can throw it a short distance. Most dogs who are aware of the game start chasing a ball and taking it back to you.
In case of return, give them treats to encourage this behavior. If they don’t, use two toys, and play simultaneously. Only then, they tend to come back to see what you’ve to throw again.
If they don’t bring any toys back, stop playing with them and leave the place, and see if they follow you with the toy or not.
Scent Games
Do you know dogs smelling sense is 45 times stronger than humans? To see this incredible power, you can test it by playing a scent game.
This game will be interesting if you use your dog’s favorite treats inside the clothes, or somethings that hide completely from their easy access. For instance, you can use old clothes, and hide under it by folding (it works on beginner dogs only).
Gradually, increase the hardness on the level, if their capacity is progressing. For this, hide treats around the house and let them find them using their smelling capacity.
Tips for Indoor Safety
Safety always comes first in indoor or outdoor play. Ensuring the safety of a dog is one thing every owner must consider in a play session. This includes:
- Soft toys for avoiding damage: Always go for soft, use non-breakable materials to avoid damaging household items.
- Provide a safe environment: Remove sharp objects, breakables, and small items that your dog could swallow. Take things with shape edges out of the play zone is very important in preventing injuries.
- Watch for Play for Fatigue: Let the dog rest on time if you feel any signs of tiredness, panting, slowing down, or lying down while playing. Keep fresh water available during playtime.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior through treats, praise, or affection to encourage safe play.
- Teach an “End Play” signal: Consistency is key. Give your dog a specific signal for the end of playtime, either with a gesture or a word. This will teach your dog to transition from playtime to resting calmly.
FAQ
1. What are the best indoor games for dogs of all ages?
Hide-and-seek, food-dispensing toys, interactive puzzle toys, tug-of-war, and training drills are great for dogs of any age to enjoy indoors.
2. Can indoor games help with my dog’s behavioral issues?
Yes, indoor games provide mental stimulation and physical activity, helping to alleviate boredom, reduce anxiety, and curb destructive behaviors.
3. What types of toys work best for indoor dog games?
Interactive puzzles, plush toys, durable chews, squeaky toys, and treat dispensers work really well for indoor games.
4. What are the best puzzle toys to keep my dog engaged indoors?
There are a few highly recommended, such as KONGs, snuffle mats, Nina Ottosson puzzles, treat mazes, and multi-level activity boards.
5. Do indoor games provide enough exercise for my dog?
Indoor games can suffice for physical exercise, mainly when the weather is bad, but high-energy breeds may be supplemented outdoors.
Conclusion
Indoor games are the only option when outdoor play isn’t possible due to weather, health, or other circumstances. These games are the best way to keep dogs physically and mentally active, ensuring their well-being and healthy life while preventing the chances of destructive behaviors caused by boredom.
Keep in mind that not all dogs are alike, and they will prefer certain games over others. With a little bit of imagination and time, it is very easy to make any boring day fun for your dog.
If you’re indeed of any dog toys for an interactive playing session with your lovely pet, you can check our collection of pet toys.
