Keeping your dog amused is important for their mental and physical well-being. And with the changeable weather here in Melbourne, it can be difficult to find appropriate activities. Here are some ideas to entertain your dog indoors or outdoors, regardless of the weather:
Indoor Activities:
- Hide and Seek: Hide treats or toys around the house and encourage your dog to find them.
- Interactive Toys: Invest in puzzle toys that dispense treats as your dog plays with them. This stimulates their mind and provides a tasty reward.
- Snuffle Toys: Roll up treats in an old towel and encourage your dog to seek them out.
- Training Sessions: Use indoor time to reinforce or teach new tricks. Keep sessions short and positive.
- Tug-of-War: Play a gentle game of tug-of-war with a soft toy. It’s a great way to bond and expend energy.
- Obstacle Course: Set up a simple obstacle course using household items. Guide your dog through it using treats as motivation.
- Fetch Indoors: Use soft toys or lightweight balls for a game of indoor fetch.
- Frozen Treats: Freeze dog-friendly treats in ice cubes or Kong toys. It adds a cooling element and keeps them engaged.
Outdoor Activities:
- Rainy Day Walks: Invest in a good quality raincoat for your dog and take short walks in the rain. Most dogs enjoy the change in weather.
- Muddy Puddle Fun: If it’s safe, let your dog play in puddles. Many dogs love splashing around in water.
- Snow Play: Some dogs love to chase snowballs, or bounce through drifts.
- Fetch in Covered Areas: Find a covered outdoor area, like a porch or garage, for a game of fetch. This way, you can avoid the rain while still providing exercise.
- Doggy Playdates: Arrange playdates with other dogs. This can be indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather, and it gives your dog the chance to socialise and explore new areas.
- Agility Games: Set up a mini agility course in your backyard. Use tunnels, ramps, and jumps to keep your dog physically active.
- Scent Games: Hide treats or toys in the yard and encourage your dog to use their sense of smell to find them.
Remember to tailor these activities to your dog’s individual preferences and energy levels. And it’s important to ensure their safety and comfort, especially in extreme weather conditions.
