Entertaining your dog at home can sometimes seem difficult. With it being winter, there is low level light, frost and cold, but also we are in lockdown too. There are a number of various indoor games to play with your four-legged friend that you and your dog can enjoy. A simple game you could play with your dog is Find-the-Treats. Another game of Tug-of-War would be a great game to play and help those bored dogs to expel excitement. Placing a dog toy box which is easy accessible in a room will keep your dog entertained. Apart from using the interactive dog toys, dog lovers why not get your dog involved in the household chores.
Lockdown
Not only are we in the depths of winter, but we’re in another lockdown too. Never before have we spent so much time indoors. Just because you are at home does not mean you or your dog need to be bored. Dog lovers there are things to do for you and your dog. There are many things you can do to make the situation we find ourselves in seem a bit brighter. Looking after your dog’s mental health as well as your own is so more important than ever. One thing we are so lucky as dog lovers is that we have company. Our dogs offer companionship and unconditional love at all times during these unusual times.
To keep your four-legged friend exercised and occupied during lockdown we have compiled a list of fun activities for play as well as some others for downtime for your dogs. Our beloved canines help with people’s mental health and there are a number of indoor games to play with your dog that you and they will enjoy.
Play a Game of Find-the-Treats
A simple game to play with your dog is Find-the-Treats. Hiding the dog treats is super exciting for your dog. Dog lovers you can start by hiding the treats in your dog’s favourite place. Be creative with your hiding places. Perhaps pop a treat under a cushion, or even in another room to make the game super exciting. Treats that have a strong scent will give your dog a helping hand. An added bonus would be if the treats are healthy dog treats. Not only will it be fun for you and your dog and ultimately your dog will get a tasty reward for their efforts.
Play a Game of Tug-of-War
Unfortunately, being at at home more so than usual your dog can end up with lots of unused energy. A game of Tug-of-War is an interactive game that can be played in small spaces and you will be sure your dog will use unused energy. This game is suitable for all size of dogs. Finding indestructible dog toys can be a useful training method when playing tug-of-war and can also help redirect any inappropriate use of their teeth.
Play Indoor Fetch
Fetch games are not only suitable for outside you can also play the game of fetch indoors too. If you have a large dog a long hallway or staircase would be preferable to play a game of fetch with a soft ball. Your dog can play the fetch game with other soft plush dog toys which will also give them plenty of fun. Owning a small dog will give dog lovers more options to play in other rooms. The lounge is another room that your dog can play the fetch game. Check out the dog accessories on our website.
Set up an Indoor Obstacle Course
Setting up an obstacle course is not only rewarding for you but also fun for your dog too. It is inexpensive as you can find objects around the house to set up that great mini obstacle course. Pillows to jump over, boxes to climb through, a laundry basket to jump in and the stairs to run up and down and you are all set up to give your dog tasks to enjoy. Dog owners it may take a little training before your dog gets it. Be sure to have some good quality training treats for good behaviour!
Play the Shell Game
Have you played the Shell Game or the Cup Game? It is the game where you have three cups and a ball or a treat is placed under a cup. Swapping the cups in front of your dog until he finds the correct cup. Dog owners, it may take time for your dog to get to grips, but with training and patience they will be sure to have loads of fun trying to work out which cup has the treat!
Can You Teach an Old Dog New Tricks?
There is always something you can be teaching an old dog or a little puppy new tricks. There is the saying “you cannot teach an old dog new tricks” but actually it’s never too late to teach your dog something new. Not only will it give you both something to focus on you will both also have lots of fun too. You will also savour the bonding time spending with your old dog or young pup.
A dog can learn a new trick at any age. To roll over, to kiss, to shake paws or to spin is not a hard task. There are plenty of great videos online that will give you a helping hand. Be sure to get those tasty treats ready and when lockdown is over to show off your dog’s tricks to all your friends.
Teach Your Dog to Tidy Their Toys
Another game to play with your dog is tidying their dog toys. Spending so much time at home will probably mean your dog’s toy box content is all over the floor. Getting your dog involved in household chores, your dog will probably enjoy the time learning and they will certainly enjoy the time with you. There are numerous videos online to help you. Start your dog on their cleaning journey!
Chill Out With Your Dog
There is nothing more relaxing after all the activities than your four legged friend snuggling up with you on the sofa. You have both earned it!
Reclining on your comfy sofa and watching a movie with some of your favourite treats is the ideal relaxing time. Although your dog will not want to watch the TV there is nothing more comforting than your dog spending time with you. For both your dog’s mental health and your well being this is second to none. You might even find something an animal or pet related on TV that will gain your dog’s attention.
Hopefully the above has given you plenty of ideas to keep you and your dog’s lockdown lives active and enriched.