Last Updated on November 2, 2025 by ellen
When the wind bites and the sidewalks turn icy, outdoor walks can be hard to keep your dog entertained indoors. But cold weather doesn’t mean your dog has to be bored or restless.
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How to Keep Your Dog Entertained Indoors
With the right mix of play, training, and creativity, you can keep your dog happy, active, and mentally sharp inside your warm home. Here’s how to make it happen.
1. Turn Playtime Into a Game of Strategy
Tossing a ball across the living room is fine, but you can make it smarter. Try hiding your dog’s favorite toy or treat around the house. Say “Find it!” and let them sniff it out. This taps into their natural hunting instincts and burns mental energy.
You can also play the cup game—hide a treat under one of three cups and shuffle them around. Your dog has to watch closely and guess which cup hides the prize. It’s simple, but dogs love it.
2. Create a Mini Indoor Obstacle Course
Grab some chairs, cushions, and boxes. Turn your hallway or living room into a fun challenge course. Have your dog jump over small pillows, crawl under a chair, or weave between bottles.
You can guide them with treats and lots of praise.
If you have hardwood floors, make sure it’s not slippery—add rugs or yoga mats for safety. This kind of play keeps your dog moving and sharpens their focus.
3. Teach New Tricks
Cold days are perfect for brushing up on old commands or teaching new ones. Even five to ten minutes of training can wear out an energetic dog.
Start with simple tricks like “spin,” “roll over,” or “high five.” Use small treats and a happy tone to keep it fun.
If your dog already knows the basics, level up. Teach them to put away their toys or fetch specific items by name. Mental challenges like this help prevent boredom and bad habits.
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4. Try Puzzle Toys or Treat Dispensers
Interactive toys are a game-changer when you can’t go outside. Fill a puzzle toy or Kong with peanut butter, kibble, or small treats. Your dog will work to get the food out, staying busy and satisfied.
Rotate toys every few days so they don’t get old. If you’re on a budget, make your own puzzles—use a muffin tin, drop treats in a few holes, and cover them with tennis balls. Let your dog figure it out.
5. Schedule Short Training Bursts Throughout the Day
Instead of one long session, sprinkle in mini-sessions. Teach a command before breakfast, play fetch after lunch, and practice “stay” before dinner. These small moments add structure and help your dog feel engaged. Short, positive training sessions are better than long, tiring ones. They also strengthen your bond without overwhelming your pet.
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6. Set Up a “View Spot”
Dogs love watching the world go by. If your home has a window with a view, make it your dog’s observation deck. Set up a bed or cushion by the window. They’ll enjoy seeing people, cars, or squirrels—even from inside.
Add a cozy blanket and a chew toy, and you’ve just built their new favorite hangout.
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7. Indoor Tug-of-War or Gentle Fetch
If you have the space, clear a hallway or room for gentle games. A soft tug toy works great for burning energy without much space. You can also toss a plush toy across the room for indoor fetch.
Keep it light, especially if you live in an apartment or have fragile items nearby. It’s not about intensity—it’s about connection and fun.
8. Make Snuggle Time Part of the Routine
When your dog’s had enough play, make time for calm bonding. Curl up together on the couch, brush their coat, or give a gentle massage. It helps your dog relax and feel secure.
Even quiet moments build trust and strengthen your relationship. You can keep your dog entertained indoors by giving them your attention.
9. Use Scent Work for Enrichment
Dogs experience the world through smell. You can use that to your advantage indoors. Hide treats in small boxes, under rugs, or inside safe containers with holes. Encourage your dog to sniff them out. It’s low-impact but mentally powerful. Scent work gives dogs purpose—and tired minds make calm dogs.
10. Rotate Toys and Activities
Dogs get bored with the same toys and games. Keep things fresh by rotating what you offer. One day, use puzzle toys; the next, hide treats or work on tricks. Even small changes keep your dog curious and excited.
The Bottom Line
Winter doesn’t have to mean boredom for your dog. A mix of mental games, indoor exercise, and calm bonding time will keep your pup happy until the weather warms up.
Remember—dogs don’t just need walks. They need connection, stimulation, and purpose. Even when the snow piles up, you can give them all three—right at home.
Ellen runs a small pet sitting business in southern Vermont. She has experience with a variety of small animals, dogs and cats. She has also cared for ducks, chickens and rabbits. Combined, she has over 20 years of experience in pet care and pet sitting.