My dog doesn’t care too much for rain or water at all for that matter. Simba only cares about water when he is gulping it down to quench his thirst. Water is not Simba’s friend at all. He doesn’t even really like taking a bath. I have no idea why he hates water so much, but he does.
If it’s wet, rainy, snowy, or extremly cold outside Simba is not having any parts of it! The only thing he is interested in is indoor dog activities. He will only go outside to do his business and even then he really doesn’t want to go out in the bad weather, but he has to do what he has to do.
Even though Simba doesn’t like the rain or winter weather he still barks at the door to be let outside and then he scurries back inside in a matter of seconds. It’s like Simba has a battle on the inside with himself! He’s dying to be outside so he can play, run around, and explore, but the bad weather is messing up his flow! My puppy has more of a carefree attitude when it comes to the weather, but sometimes she’s not feeling it either.
PIN IT!
Things to Do with Your Dog at Home
Sunny skies and beautiful days are just not going to always happen and we will just have to figure out some things to do when the weather sucks. Here are some indoor dog activities that I’m sure your dog will enjoy when the weather is bad. Click HERE to sign up for our newsletter for pet parent hacks and tips plus be the first to get FREE printables and discounts on dog products and pet parent apparel.
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Teach Your Dog New Tricks
This is the perfect time to teach your dog new tricks. Your dog is probably bored from being stuck inside on a rainy day or whatever the reason may be and needs some excitement. Learning new tricks will surely bring some excitement since your dog will be earning some dog treats for learning dog tricks. It’s a win for you and your dog! It’s the perfect thing to add to your indoor dog activities list.
- Sundance, Kyra (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 208 Pages - 04/01/2007 (Publication Date) - Quarry Books (Publisher)
- Marin, Vanessa Estrada (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 176 Pages - 11/26/2019 (Publication Date) - Z Kids (Publisher)
- EASY TO USE - Simple push button with distinct clicking sound.
- Comes with an elastic wrist band so you can leave it on your wrist or clip it to the leash or your pants.
- Not only train the dog but also the cat, bird, chicken, sheep a new behaviors like sit, fetch, roll over, lie down.
- For effective pet training ALWAYS reward with a treat after clicking.
- Can be used to train the dog basic obedience, small trick, and correct the bad behavior; Scientific method of training your pet safely and easily.
- Complete Cat and Dog Talking Buttons Set: Teach your pets to communicate their needs with our FluentPet Basic Key Vocab Kit! This set includes 6 dog buttons for communication, batteries included, 3 HexTiles, and 35 labeling stickers—an ideal gift for pet lovers!
- Customized Learning Made Easy: Our recordable buttons for dogs allow you to choose the specific words to teach your pets. Group the buttons on HexTiles by category to enhance their learning experience.
- User-Friendly Talking Buttons: Our pet buttons for talking come with pre-installed batteries for immediate use. Requiring only 0.5 lbs of pressure, they’re easy to activate for even smaller pets. Button dimensions: 1.9 in (48 mm) x 1.1 in (27.9 mm).
- Secure and Expandable Design: Each HexTile securely holds up to 6 talking buttons for dogs, taking up minimal space while easily expanding as your pet's vocabulary grows.
- Step-by-Step Training Support: Access guided button teaching and join a community of devoted trainers to help unlock your dog or cat’s full potential with FluentPet.
Try teaching your dog how to use dog buttons to teach your dog how to communicate with you. It’s pretty cool to see your dog press a dog button to let you know they have to potty, need more water, want to go for a walk, and more. Watch me teach Simba how to talk. I’m currently teaching my puppy so make sure you subscribe to my DogMomPOV YouTube channel to see her journey.
Play Fetch
You probably don’t want to throw a ball in the house, but that doesn’t mean that should stop you from playing fetch with your dog. Roll the ball away from your dog and let him run and bring it back to you. Your dog will still enjoy this game even though you aren’t throwing the ball, trust! There is a dog toy called the ChuckIt! Indoor Super Slider Self-Fetch Squeaky Toy that has a slick base and glides and zips safely across most floors. it will definitely grab your dog’s attention and give them a challenge indoors.
- MADE FOR SELF-PLAY: The Chuckit! Indoor Slider brings thrilling self-fetch fun to your home. Its slick base glides and zips safely across most floors, sparking your dog’s natural chase instinct and delivering an exciting challenge.
- SQUEAKY DOG TOY: Our squeaker toy is the perfect way to keep dogs active indoors. With a built-in large air chamber that squeaks with every pounce, it mimics the sounds of prey, capturing your dog’s attention and keeping their excitement high.
- SIZED FOR EVERY BREED: Measuring 7" L x 6" W x 3" H, our indoor pet toy is ideal for small, medium, and large dogs. Its durable rubber dome and smooth base last for extended playtime without damaging your home's interior.
- MAKE FETCH HAPPEN: Chuckit! toys make the best gifts for pet lovers. The Indoor Super Slider dog toy is just one of many interactive dog toy options we offer, including tumblers, tennis balls, and more. As the #1 stocking stuffers, Chuckit! toys have something for every pet.
- CHUCKIT!: For 20 years, Chuckit! has been leading the game of fetch. The special connection between pets and owners is at the heart of every toy we make. With iconic shapes and vibrant colors, Chuckit! toys elevate every adventure, strengthening the bond between you and your furry friend.
- DOG BRAIN GAME: Keep your dog's brain fresh and provide your pet hours of fun active entertainment and mental stimulation with the iFetch Frenzy Activity Dog Toy! No electric power or batteries are necessary, all your pup has to do is drop the ball into the top and then scramble to find it as the ball comes randomly rolling (6-12 feet) out of 1 of 3 openings at the bottom! The iFetch Frenzy is not a launcher
- STIMULATE YOUR DOG'S MIND: Our dog brain games provide an excellent way to stimulate your dog or puppy's brain, and allows your pets to get much needed exercise fetching the ball; ideal for small to medium breed dogs
- QUIET NON-ELECTRONIC OPERATION: No electric power or batteries are needed to operate this self playing dog toy; If your pet is sensitive to sound, this self play dog toy is the answer, as there is no whirring or clicking during operation. The ball gently rolls out of the dog enrichment toy machine, it does not launch
- INCLUDES 3 MINI TENNIS BALLS: Our interactive dog toys include 3 durable non-abrasive miniature sized tennis balls which measure about 1.5 inches in diameter (About the size of a golf ball), and feature a a hidden ball storage compartment on the bottom. These balls are great for fetching but are not meant for chewing
- DURABLE AND SIMPLE: This indoor activity toy is constructed with a high quality and durable plastic construction for long-lasting reliability. Simply set up Frenzy in an open area away from furniture and it's ready to use. For best performance use on short carpet or hard floors
- Designed for Endless Fetch Fun: Keep your dog entertained for hours with our automatic ball launcher, specially designed for dogs who love to fetch but might tire quickly with traditional games. This ball thrower is the perfect companion for independent play—just plug it in, set your launch distance, and drop in a 2.5-inch ball. It’s easy to use and ideal for keeping your dog active and mentally engaged, even when you can’t join in on the fun.
- Customizable Launch Distance: The ball launcher features three adjustable launch settings—10, 25, or 40 feet. With a simple push of a button, you can customize each session to match your dog’s energy levels and preferences. This flexibility makes the launcher perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Includes 6 Specialized Tennis Balls: The package comes with six 2.5'' tennis balls that are perfectly designed to work with the launcher. For optimal performance, only use the All for Paw balls, as other brands may not be compatible and could affect the functionality. To ensure smooth operation, always keep the balls clean and dry. These tennis balls are just the right size for safe play, and their durability ensures long-lasting use, giving your dog countless hours of fun.
- Rechargeable and Portable: Equipped with a rechargeable battery, the automatic ball launcher offers the freedom to play wherever you go. Whether in the backyard, at the park, or even indoors, this portable launcher keeps the fun going without the need for constant plugging in. Just charge it up, and you're ready for an adventure.
- Boosts Physical and Mental Health: This dog toy is designed to provide both physical activity and mental stimulation, which are essential for your dog’s overall well-being. Regular fetch sessions help burn off excess energy, keep your dog fit, and challenge their problem-solving skills. It’s perfect for busy owners who need a way to keep their pets engaged when they can’t be there to play.
Some people don’t mind throwing a ball in their home and may have enough space to do so without breaking anything. Automatic Dog Ball Launcher is a cool toy that can be used indoors and there is also a cheaper dog ball launcher called the iFetch Frenzy where the ball rolls out on the floor instead of shooting out.
Watch DOGTV
Let your dog enjoy some TV and no I don’t mean Netflix. Chill out on the couch and let your dog lounge and watch a channel made especially for him. Did you know there is a channel just for dogs? It’s called DOGTV and they have different things to watch just for dogs.
The channel is made to keep dogs relaxed, entertained, happy, and on their best behavior. There are calming and soothing sounds and dog-friendly videos which are perfect if your dog is a little scared of thunder and lightning.
Try DOGTV for FREE for 7 days to see if your dog likes it or not. I bet he will! Click HERE to sign up now. It’s really simple to get started. Stream it on your favorite device like Fire TV, Roku, or Apple TV. You can cancel at any time.
Hide And Seek
Hide your dog’s favorite toy or hide yourself! This is a great game that the whole family can take part in. The dogs love to help the kids find us or help us find the kids. When he has an idea of where someone is hiding his ears perk up and he starts to bark and wag his tail. He gets so excited and he really gets to put his dog senses to the test.
- Squeaky plush dog toy for interactive playtime; perfect gift for puppies and small, medium dogs
- Soft, lightweight plush design works well to help keep your dog happy all day long
- Play with your pet to give it a warm and comfortable feeling and prevent depression in pets. This toy is not designed for chewers, if you want a toy for chewing, please choose durable toys, such as rubber, cotton rope
- Note: This toy is suitable for pets only, please do not give it to children, please avoid being swallowed by pets
- Spot clean as needed
- Hide A Squirrel dog puzzle keeps pups engaged as they hunt squeaky squirrels from the tree trunk, fueling their instincts and fun
- 2-in-1 plush dog puzzle and squeaky dog toy combo that brings interactive hide-and-seek fun to playtime
- Keep your pup entertained and mentally sharp with plush squeaky squirrels that spark their natural hunting instincts and keep boredom at bay
- Plush texture is gentle on teeth and gums, making them ideal for both puppies and adult dogs
- For supervised play; replace if damaged to ensure safe use
- SUITABLE FOR ALL DOGS - The max size of this dog snuffle mat is 17 x 17 inches, designed for all dogs, cats and rabbits, NOT recommended for chewers dogs who could tear it up. Your dogs will be delighted to have such an adorable toy
- INTERACTIVE DOG TOYS - If your dog always eat too fast, we recommend you try this snuffle mat. Dog puzzle toys are a great christmas gift for your beloved pets, it simulates an environment for your dog to forage naturally, effectively slow down eating and prevent digestive problems
- FUN AND REDUCE ANXIETY - Hiding treats in foraging mat can arouse your dog's interest, bring fun and enjoy the process of foraging to avoid destroying furniture due to boredom
- SAFETY MATERIALS - The main material of the sniff mat is felt cloth, which is safe but not chewproof. Hand wash and machine wash available. When you receive it, wash it once to make the shape better
- ADJUSTABLE AND NON-SLIP BOTTOM - Long drawstring is freely adjustable, easy to fix on the chair leg to prevent movement. Please use this snuffle puzzle mat with your supervision, and avoid your dog eating black plastic buttons
There are also plenty of hide and seek dog toys that will keep your dog entertained too. A snuffle mat is a good game of hide and seek of dog treats! Just place a few small dog treats or your dog’s kibble in the snuffle mat and your dog has to find it.
Indoor Dog Toys
Dog puzzle toys and Dog treat balls are great dog toys to play with on a rainy day. It helps stimulate a dog’s brain and they get treats in the process. Another great dog toy to play with on a rainy day is the Tether Tug. Simba is able to play a good ol’ game of tug o war on his own with this dog toy.
- 【Size】: L9.44" * W9.44"* H1.14" suitable for cats, puppies and small dogs.
- 【Interactive Dog Toys】This is a interactive puppy puzzle , which can easily become the closest companion and toy for your puppies and cats, and will release pressure for dogs. Find food by sliding parts to improve eating pleasure and IQ.
- 【Slow Feed Bowl】This encourages pets to eat at a slower speed, helps to slow down the feeding time to help the dog digest, and can provide your dog with a variety of healthy snacks.
- 【Slow Feede toys】 Use this educational game toy to exercise the dog’s brain, which will help meet the dog’s instinct needs, train the pet’s sense of smell, and let the dog enjoy feeding when using the nose or paw to move the slider, while providing spirit stimulate.
- 【Dog toys】No toy is indestructible. Do not leave toys with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace toy if damaged.
- RUBBER MATERIAL: HIPPIH treat dispensing dog ball is made of extra-tough rubber with good elasticity, good for your sweet dog grinding and fresh their teeth. ( Blue color-2.75 in, Green color-3.14 in, suitable for medium and large dogs. Not suitable for miniature small dogs, such as Yorkshire Maltese, etc) NOTE: The dog puzzle ball must be wider than your dog's mouth
- STRONG TOOTH: HIPPIH blue dog ball can effectively help strong their teeth and won't hurt pets gums. The green one can put the food in to improve the interest of your cute dogs.
- IMPROVE INTELLIGENCE & IQ TRAINING: HIPPIH dog toy ball can easily attract your pet's attention, help pets intelligence improving and is convenient to train dogs. HIPPIH dog ball toys are perfect for interaction with your dog, promoting the bond between you and your dog.
- FOR AMUSEMENT: Perfect for fetch and interaction with your dog. You can add food or treats into the grooves and this keeps your dog entertained and active. HIPPIH IQ treat ball allow you have more interactive fun with your pets.
- BEST GIFT FOR PETS: HIPPIH dog toys ball can reduce the dog's destructive behavior, protect the home shoes, socks, sheets, sofa are not afraid of dog bite. Your naughty active dogs will be love it to kill the boring time. This dog rubber ball is best gift for your sweet dog.
- Satisfy Instinctual Needs: The KONG Classic red rubber toy helps satisfy dogs' instinctual needs and provides mental stimulation; toy helps solve chewing, teething, boredom, crate training, digging, barking and more
- Enticing Chew Toy for Dogs: This unique toy has an erratic and unpredictable bounce, keeping all breeds of dogs engaged and entertained during interactive play sessions
- Treat-Filling Capabilities: The hollow interior allows for stuffing with kibble, peanut butter, or KONG Snacks or Easy Treat, offering an added challenge and extended play time for your pet; dishwasher safe for easy clean up
- Durable Natural Rubber Dog Toy: The KONG Classic red rubber formula is created for average chewing dogs, and is recommended by veterinarians and trainers worldwide
- Made in the USA. Globally sourced materials. KONG has been innovating since 1976 to enrich the lives of pets with the highest quality pet toys and treats. Covered by KONG's Satisfaction Guarantee
Pull out your dog’s favorite stuffed animals that squeak or a Kong dog toy that you can fill with his favorite treat which I’m sure will keep him busy for a while.
Take a Nap
Ok, so this might not really be considered an “activity”, but my dog loves to sleep. SLEEP IS BAE to my dog ok!? He absolutely loves to take an awesome nap just like I do. Simba loves to curl up on me or on my bed and catch a couple of Z’s. I’d have to say this is one of his favorite things to do and if you love sleep like we do then you know that rainy weather is the best weather to take a nap!
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What indoor dog activities do you do with your dog on a rainy day? Share in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!
I have two cats. I have been teaching them to sit when I feed them. My grandson, who is 19 and has six cats, couldn’t believe that my cats actually sit when told to!
Simba and our Eddie sound very similar when it comes to water and rain! Eddie looks so pathetic when he has to go outside when it’s raining to do his business. These are really fun ideas! I think Eddie’s favorite would be to take a nap.
Hahaha, the first thing I’ll do when I get home, is search for DOGTV!! How awesome!!
Love this, with a little creativity, inside can be just as fun as outside!
BOL – the lapdogs prefer to watch football and hockey!
Unfortunately my dogs don’t mind the rain, except one doesn’t like puddles (go figure how that makes sense – it’s okay if the water comes from above, but not below!!). There are times when it’s too much even for them, so keeping them busy while stuck inside is important to prevent boredom and depression. Great advice.
I love your new trick suggestion! That’s a great way to deepen your relationship too.
First of all, I love your pictures!
Miss Edie is not a fan of rainy days either. It’s a struggle just to get her to go potty 😉 She would agree with your idea to have a nap, but also loves to go for a walk around inside the local pet store!
It rarely rains where we live, but these are good tips for our summer months when temperatures hit around 115°! We also like to play hide and seek games with treats!
Oh what a sweet post! Keira isn’t a fan of the rain either. Luckily, it doesn’t rain much here! I love your photo’s. They tell an amazing story!
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I need to try hide and sneak!!
I laughed at the last picture – that is one tired out pup! Yes, you can keep an energetic dog occupied if its a rainy day, and you have the best ideas.
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DogTV is awesome isn’t it! My cats love it too haha. Our little Lyla has severe anxiety when we have storms, which are often here in the midwest. There is no distracting her from the storms. We have tried everything. I am glad you found some wonderful ways to keep your pup entertained while it’s raining. 🙂
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Great tips and games to play with your pups! It doesn’t rain much here but it does get hot and thats equally just a bad. Thank you!
Great ideas. There isn’t anything better than connecting with your dog on a rainy day. 🙂
I have a very tiny studio so on rainy days I make sure Layla has lots of bones to chew on plus when we come home from our walks I am fortunate that she can play in the hallway of our building so I throw one of her toys and she runs up and down squeaking till she tires out and then runs in and goes to sleep BOL
Find the Treat is definitely a favorite of my dogs during rainy weather. I have to be careful not to give them too many treats though, so I use small bits of warm chicken intermittently in order to keep the game going.
Love & Biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
My mom has to go outside with an umbrella with her dog when it’s raining when he needs to potty.
We do a lot of training and shaping games. Unless it is downright pouring though, we still go out. If we didn’t go out when it rains, Mr. N would never get walked!
I do a lot of games involving treats and yes hide and seek is one of my favorite games to play
My dogs don’t like the rain at all! This is perfect timing! It is raining right now. To be perfectly honest, we all just want to go back to bed.
Great tips! I definitely think Tip #1 works the best for my pooch. It gets his mind going, which can tire him out more than play sometimes! I didn’t know DOGTV existed… and will definitely need to check this one out for myself!