Twelve Winter Life Hacks to Entertain Your Dog

We've all been there. Your dog just sits and stares at you, trying to telepathically say "TAKE ME OUT TO PLAY". Since time outside to play has been limited lately due to Old Man Winter, I thought it would be the perfect time to share this article with some great ideas to keep your pup active when it is too cold to go outside. 

Our favorite is Stair Master! What creative "life hacks" have you come up with to entertain your pup? We'd love to hear them. Please share.

Writer: Melina Giakas

1. Search & Sniff

Hide treats around your home to set your dog off on a tail wagging adventure. Your dog will put his nose to work to find the hidden treasures. You can determine how easy or difficult you want the game to be depending on where you decide to hide them.

2. Schedule a puppy play date.

Call some puppy pals and surprise your dog with a visit from one of his four-legged furiends.

3. Kong Ball

Kong Balls are great for hiding treats and keeping dogs busy. The toy’s opening is small enough to provide dogs with a challenge but also big enough for a treat to fall out before your dog becomes frustrated.

4. Tug of War

All you need for this old school game is a tough rope and a pawesome dog who’s ready to play.

5. Interactive Dog Feeder

Event though your dog may figure it out in a few minutes, interactive dog feeders and puzzles are a great way to keep your canine occupied.

6. Hall Ball

A long straight hallway is idea for this game. Similar to fetch, take a ball and roll it down a long hallway. Your dog will go racing after it without unpredictably tearing through your home.

7. Teach an old dog some new tricks.

On sunnier days you’re way more likely to visit the doggie park than sit at home teaching your dog new tricks. Rainy days are pawesome for catching up on all those things you set aside for another day. Especially practicing tricks your dog knows, and teaching them some new ones too!

8. Dental Chewers

Dental chew treats like Whimzees are ideal for keeping dogs busy while also cleaning their teeth!

9. The Hol-ee Roller

The Hol-ee Roller is great for dogs that love bigger toys. Its hexagonal cut-outs make the ball lightweight and easy for owners to throw and dogs to retrieve so you won’t have to worry about it breaking your lamp. However, please proceed with caution if your dog is a heavy duty chewer (he just may get stuck in it  ). Unlikely but you never know with these crazy puppers!

10. Stair Master (Pup Edition)

Utilize all areas of your home! If you have a staircase, you can throw a ball up the stairs for your dog to retrieve and return to you at the bottom of the steps. Catch, toss, and have your dog return the ball several times to ensure a tired doggie.

11. Shopping Trip

Take your dog out to a dog friendly store or dog specialty store like Petco or PetSmart to browse and shop on a gloomy day.

12. Netflix

Ok, maybe this one isn’t as much for your dog. Regardless, you can still spend quality time with your dog and keep them entertained while catching up on a few shows. As long as you have a chew toy or bone nearby, your dog is bound to enjoy a little down time next to his ruvly hooman.