What if you temporarily cannot walk your dog as much?

An occasional shorter walk is usually not a problem. However, if your dog receives considerably less exercise and stimulation than usual for an extended period, it may become harder for them to use up their energy.

You can partially compensate for this by providing more mental activities indoors. A ten minute search game is not a literal replacement for a long walk, but it can require considerable mental effort. Where possible, combine shorter walks with sniffing, searching, training, playing and chewing.

Does your dog need less exercise because of an operation, injury or medical condition? Follow the exercise advice provided by your vet. Energetic indoor games, jumping and running around the house can also put considerable strain on the body.

How can you recognise boredom in your dog?

Boredom can present differently in every dog. Some dogs become noticeably excitable and constantly seek attention, while others start sleeping much more. Pacing, constantly following you, whining, barking, destroying objects, excessive licking or repeatedly bringing you toys can also occur.

This behaviour does not automatically mean that your dog is bored. Restlessness and behavioural changes can also be associated with stress, fear, pain or a physical condition. If the behaviour starts suddenly or there are other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a vet.

Indoor games for dogs

You do not need much space to keep a dog entertained indoors. A simple search game can already provide a fun challenge. Ask your dog to wait while you hide a few pieces of kibble around the room, then let them use their nose to find the food. Start simply and gradually make the hiding places more difficult.

You can do the same with a favourite toy. Hide it somewhere easy to find at first and gradually make the game more challenging. This not only stimulates your dog’s sense of smell, but also teaches them to concentrate on a task.

Short training sessions are also suitable for indoors. Practise familiar commands or teach your dog something new, such as putting away a toy, touching an object with their nose or walking to a particular spot. Keep the sessions short and positive. Just a few minutes of focused training can already require considerable effort.

For more ideas, take a look at our range of dog toys.

Let your dog work for their food

A food bowl is convenient, but you can also use part of your dog’s daily food as an activity. With fillable toys your dog has to make an effort to reach their kibble or other suitable food. Depending on the toy, your dog may need to roll, lick, push or solve a puzzle.

You can adapt the difficulty level to your dog. Start simply so that they understand what they need to do. A puzzle that is too difficult can cause frustration. As your dog becomes more skilled, you can gradually increase the challenge.

Remember to take the total daily amount of food into account. Kibble and treats provided during games also contain calories. You can therefore set aside part of the regular daily portion and use it during these activities.

Sniffing as a mental challenge

A dog’s nose is an important tool for exploring the world. Sniffing activities are therefore particularly suitable when you want to provide additional stimulation indoors.

With a snuffle mat you can, for example, hide some of the kibble between the strips. Your dog must use their nose to find the food. A snuffle ball offers a similar challenge while also encouraging movement and manipulation with the nose and paws.

You can also create a sniffing game without special toys. For example, distribute a few pieces of kibble among several safe places in a room. Make sure your dog does not learn to search in places where they are not normally allowed.

Interactive toys and dog puzzles

Some dogs love solving problems. With interactive toys your dog may need to slide, turn, push or open different parts to find a reward.

Choose a difficulty level that suits your dog’s experience and help them at first. The aim is for your dog to think and experience success, not to become frustrated because they cannot reach the reward.

It is best not to leave your dog unattended with these types of toys, especially if they tend to bite pieces off.

Chewing provides a calm activity

Not every activity needs to be energetic. Many dogs enjoy chewing and can remain occupied with it for a long time. This makes chewing a pleasant change after a search game or training session.

Suitable chew toys give your dog an activity that allows them to remain relatively calm in one place. Always choose a toy that suits your dog’s size and chewing strength. Check it regularly for damage and replace it if pieces may come loose.

Preventing your dog from becoming restless because of fewer walks

If you know that walks will temporarily be shorter, focus on maintaining the quality and variety of the day. Give your dog plenty of time to sniff during walks and spread several short indoor activities throughout the day. For example, alternate searching with training, a food puzzle and a calm chewing session.

More activity is not always better. Dogs also need sufficient sleep and rest. A dog that is constantly kept occupied may find it difficult to settle independently. Make sure there is a good balance between physical exercise, mental stimulation and relaxation.

Which activity suits your dog?

Focus primarily on what your dog enjoys. One dog may search endlessly for pieces of kibble, while another prefers solving puzzles, chewing or training with their owner. Alternating different activities keeps things interesting.

Indoor games are not only an alternative for bad weather. Even on days when you take your dog for a long walk, a sniffing game, puzzle or short training session can provide valuable additional enrichment. This gives your dog an opportunity to use not only their body, but also their nose and brain.