Hello!
When we have a stretch of cold or rainy days, there are times you just don’t feel like going outside, right?
But your dogs might be itching to play!
In such cases, I’d like to introduce three ways you can satisfy your dog’s needs while having fun together indoors.
① Physical play
② Brain-stimulating play
③ Bonding play
① The classic indoor game: "Retrieve"
Retrieve is a game where you use a ball or toy; you throw it, and your dog goes to fetch it and brings it back to you.
This satisfies your dog’s natural hunting instincts, and repeating the movements of running and chasing allows for exercise even indoors.
② Brain-stimulating: "Treasure Hunt"
This is a game where you hide your dog's favorite treats for them to find.
First, let your dog sniff the treat, then lead them out of the room while you hide it in various places.
Once you've finished hiding them, bring your dog back in and give the signal "GO" to start the search.
Dogs excel at using their sense of smell to find prey, so searching satisfies their instinctual needs.
Moving around also provides exercise, allowing them to use their brains at the same time.
③ Bonding play: "Trick Training"
From the famous "shake" and "sit" to original tricks!
I think this is an exercise that dogs of any breed or age can enjoy.
It may help deepen your understanding of your dog and further strengthen your bond.
When playing indoors instead of going for a walk, I recommend aiming for about 30 minutes to an hour of playtime.
What did you think?
These are all games you can enjoy with things you already have at home, so please give them a try during your time indoors!