While I love Florida weather we do get our good share of rainy days... and of course hurricanes. If you have an older or more laid back dog, these days of constant rain and inclement weather may only affect your potty break schedule. But with young or energetic dogs who need an outlet they can get rather bored when stuck inside. Here are a few way to help keep your dogs entertained on stormy days.
Play hide and seek
* This is my favorite game to play. You can play or if you have kids this is a great game for them to play as well. Please keep in mind that any time kids are playing with or around dogs they need to be actively supervised.
* If your dog has never played hide and seek before start with an easy hiding spot.
* Call your dog once they get to you give them a treat or just some love and praise.
* Repeat a few times.
* As your dog gets better you can make your hiding spots a bit harder.
Hide treats for your dog to find
* Take a handful of treats and place them in easy locations to find.
* While you “hide” the treats you may need to have your dog in another room or ask someone to keep them occupied while you place the treats. Or ask your dog to stay/wait if they are able to.
* Release your dog and let them sniff out all the treats. If they are having a hard time you can help them out a little by pointing and guiding.
Stuffed food toys
* These are awesome to pre-make so you have them available when you need them.
* There are so many different items that you can fill them with. Some examples are: Pumpkin (No sugar added) , Apple sauce (No sugar added), Kibble (you can soak to make it into a mush), Wet dog food.
* I like to make a combination of my dogs food and something a bit squish like pumpkin with blueberries or carrots sprinkled in if I have them.
* Licki Mats and Snuffle mats are also a wonderful way to give your dog a calming activity to do indoors.
Now if you don’t already have these toys in your possession not to worry there are plenty of household items you can use to entertain your dog.
Cardboard boxes, empty paper towel/ toilet paper rolls
- For paper rolls you can cut slits in the end then fold the flaps closed so you can fill it with food or treats. You will then cut slits in the other end an fold it close.
- If you have a large cardboard box on hand you can take scrap paper or tissue/packing paper crinkle it up and place it in the box. Then take some treats or food and toss it in the box. Let your dog sniff around and find all the yummy treats. If you have a small dog you may need to cut the sides down so they are able to reach the treats.
Towels
- If you have a old dish towel or bath towel you can lay it flat sprinkle treats or kibble on the towel then roll it up. For an extra challenge to can tie it in a loose knot.
It is up to you how creative you’d like to get. If you would like more ideas you can check out the article from whole - dog - journal; 5 indoor dog games for when you can’t go out.
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