There’s a reason they call this time of year the dog days of summer. The phrase dates back to the ancient Greeks and Romans; when they spotted Sirius, also known as the “dog star” up in the sky near the end of July, they knew it marked the hottest days of the year.
Not that we need to search the heavens for a canine-shaped constellation in order to figure out it’s sweltering. All you need to do is peek at your own panting pup, probably parked in front of the air conditioner, their tongue stretched out the entire length of their face.
But just because it’s too hot to romp outside doesn’t mean you should hibernate with them until fall. The following activities were designed to be enjoyed indoors, so you can keep your dog stimulated, enriched and engaged the whole summer through.
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INTERACTIVE TOYS & PUZZLES
These toys challenge your dog to think and problem-solve in order to access treats or food hidden inside. Brands like Kong, Nina Ottosson and Outward Hound offer a variety of options suitable for different skill levels and sizes.
TRAINING SESSIONS
Use the indoor time to work on training and reinforce good behavior. Teaching new tricks or practicing commands can be a fun way to bond with your dog while keeping them mentally engaged.
INDOOR FETCH & TUG OF WAR
If you have enough space, indoor fetch can be a great way to burn off some of your dog’s energy. Use soft toys to avoid damaging your home or hurting your dog. Tug-of-war is another game that can be played indoors. Just make sure to use a durable rope toy and teach your dog to release on command to keep things safe and controlled. And maybe consider doing it on a rug to protect those wood floors!
OBSTACLE COURSES
Transform your living room into a mini agility course. Use household items like chairs, cushions and blankets to create obstacles for your dog to navigate and provide both physical exercise and mental stimulation.
HIDE & SEEK
Tap into their natural hunting instincts. Hide somewhere in your house and call your dog to find you. You can also hide treats or favorite toys around the house and let your dog search for them.
SNUFFLE MATS & TREAT-DISPENSING TOYS
Engage your dog’s sense of smell and foraging instincts. Hide treats in the folds of a snuffle mat or use treat-dispensing balls that your dog has to roll around to get the treats out.
COOLING MATS & FROZEN TREATS
Cooling mats provide a cool surface for your dog to lie on, which can be particularly comforting on hot days. You can make frozen treats by freezing scoops of Nom Nom in ice cube trays or silicone molds.
DOGGIE PLAYDATES
Arranging indoor playdates with other dog parents can be a great way for them to socialize and burn off energy. Just ensure the space is safe and the dogs are compatible in terms of personality and play style.
