The snow is falling, the wind is howling, and stepping outside feels like a scene from a winter survival movie. Sound familiar? While the cold weather might make outdoor play a bit challenging, your dog still needs mental and physical exercise to stay happy and healthy. We’ve got you covered with a plethora of ideas!
- Hide-and-Seek: A Classic Favorite
Yes, hide-and-seek isn’t just for kids! Grab your dog’s favorite toy or a treat, and hide it somewhere in the house. Start easy—like behind a couch cushion—so they get the hang of it. Then, as they get better, make the hiding spots more challenging.
Want to take it up a notch? Try hiding yourself! Call your dog from another room and watch their excitement as they track you down.
- Tug-of-War: Burn Energy, Build Bond
A good old-fashioned game of tug-of-war is perfect for burning off energy indoors. All you need is a sturdy rope toy (or even an old towel). This game is great for strengthening your bond and helping your dog release some of that pent-up energy. Hungry Hound locations have plenty of amazing toys for mental stimulation and tug of war!
Pro Tip: Let your dog win occasionally—it builds their confidence and keeps the game fun!
- The Cup Game: Mental Stimulation Made Easy
Take three cups, flip them upside down, and hide a treat under one. Shuffle the cups around while your dog watches, and then let them figure out which cup has the treat. It’s like their own little magic show, and they’ll love the mental challenge! - DIY Obstacle Course
Turn your living room into a canine agility course! Use household items like cushions, chairs, and blankets to create tunnels, jumps, and weaving paths. Guide your dog through the course with treats or toys, and watch them become a little indoor athlete. - Puzzle Toys and Treat Dispensers
Interactive toys like treat puzzles or food-dispensing balls are lifesavers on cold days. They challenge your dog’s problem-solving skills and keep them entertained for longer stretches. If you’re feeling crafty, you can even make your own puzzle toy with a muffin tin, tennis balls, and treats! Hungry Hound has snuffle mats, slow feeders, lickimats, and more available to keep your dog entertained! - Teach a New Trick
Winter is the perfect time to work on your dog’s education. Whether it’s a fun trick like “roll over” or something useful like “fetch your leash,” training sessions are a fantastic way to keep their brain busy. Keep the sessions short and sweet—about 10-15 minutes—and always end on a positive note with lots of praise and treats. - Play "Find It" with Their Favorite Toys
Scatter their toys around the house and encourage your dog to “find it.” It’s an easy game that taps into their natural hunting instincts. Bonus points if you mix in some treats for extra motivation! - Dance Party for Two
This one’s a bit unconventional but so much fun! Put on your favorite tunes, grab a toy, and start moving around with your pup. They’ll love the energy and excitement, and you’ll both get a workout! - Indoor Fetch (Yes, It’s Possible!)
If you have a long hallway or a clear space, indoor fetch can be a lifesaver. Use a soft toy to avoid any accidents (looking at you, fragile lamp), and let the games begin! - Snuggle Time Counts Too
After all that playing, don’t forget to wind down with some cuddle time. A good snuggle session on the couch is a great way to relax and bond with your dog after a day of indoor fun.
Winter doesn’t have to mean boredom for your dog—or you! With a little creativity, you can turn your home into a playground that keeps tails wagging all season long. ✨