On days when our dogs are stuck inside, it’s important to provide physically and mentally enriching and engaging activities to help them burn energy and have fun! Some great options include:

• Working on training and basic cues.
• Games such as fetch, search and find, tug of war, and catch are just a few that can be played both inside and out.

• Dogs love activities that mimic part of the prey cycle. Try hiding an enrichment box with high value food or a long-lasting chew inside. The dog will use their nose to search for the enrichment (prey) and once they find it, they can shred it open and then consume what is inside. This satisfies several parts of the predation cycle and gives your dog an exciting activity that helps relieve stress!
• For social dogs, consider setting up extra play dates during the winter. Play sessions are highly beneficial and can help mitigate the effects of cabin fever.
• Interactive toys and feeders are popular tools, and you can even use multiple to feed your dog throughout the day.

Freeze Kongs, lick mats, Nylabones, and other objects that can be smeared with peanut butter, cheese, or wet food to make a time-consuming frozen treat. Giving time consuming enrichment items can also be a great reward after training and a good decompression activity after high arousal play.