Cozy Indoor Activities
Winter weather can limit outdoor adventures, but that doesn’t mean your dog has to feel bored or restless indoors. In fact, with the right activities, December can become a month full of mental enrichment, bonding, and play.
Here are the best indoor activities to keep your dog’s mind active and their energy balanced all winter long.
🧩 1. Puzzle Toys & Treat Dispensers
Dogs naturally love problem-solving, and puzzle toys provide just that. Choose puzzles with adjustable difficulty so your pup doesn’t get frustrated.
🐽 2. Sniff Work Games
Hide treats around the house and create your own "sniffari."
Try:
- Hiding treats under cups
- Laying scent trails
- Creating a DIY snuffle mat with fleece strips
Sniffing reduces stress and boosts confidence.
🎯 3. Indoor Obstacle Course
Use pillows, tunnels, blankets, and safe household items for a fun agility track. You can even time your dog and try to beat their “personal best.”
🧠 4. Teach a New Trick Every Week
Winter is the perfect time to train indoors. Try:
- Spin
- Sit pretty
- Fetch specific objects
- Turn off a light with a paw
- Close a cabinet door
You’ll be amazed at how quickly they learn.
🤝 5. Enrichment Boxes
Fill a box with crumpled paper, toys, treats, and safe items for your dog to dig through. It's like a treasure hunt that entertains for ages.
🎵 6. Use Calming Music or Dog TV
Perfect for dogs who get restless or anxious during long indoor days. Both can help soothe nervous pups while providing background enrichment.
🧸 7. Rotating Toy System
Instead of leaving all toys out at once, rotate them weekly. This keeps everything feeling new and exciting.