Indoor Activities to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Summer

Written By: Olivia Connatser CPDT-KA

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Summer is in full swing, and while it can be a great time to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend, the scorching heat can sometimes be unbearable for dogs. The blazing sun and hot pavements can pose health risks. Especially if you live somewhere like me in Texas! However, you can still keep your canine companion entertained and mentally stimulated with a range of exciting indoor activities. Whether you have a high-energy dog or a laid-back pooch, these indoor activities will ensure your four-legged friend stays cool and content during the summer months.

1. Treat Puzzles and Games

Engage your dog’s mind and prevent boredom by introducing treat puzzles and games. These puzzles require your pup to use their problem-solving skills to retrieve hidden treats. Puzzle toys, snuffle mats, or treat-dispensing balls can provide hours of fun for your dog. You can also DIY treat games with things like a treat scavenger hunt – simply hide treats in nooks and crannies in your home, and let your dog go searching for their prizes! Not only will this keep them entertained, but it will also help slow down their eating, which helps prevent digestive issues. Here are some of my favorites:

2. Indoor Obstacle Course

Set up a mini agility course in your living room to stimulate your dog’s body and mind and get them moving! Use household items like chairs, cushions, hula hoops, and tunnels to create an obstacle course. Guide your dog through the course with treats and praise, providing them with a fun and challenging physical activity without exposing them to the harsh summer sun

3. Frozen Treats

Beat the heat with frozen treats specially made for dogs. You can make delicious and refreshing treats by freezing plain greek yogurt mixed with fruit like blueberries and bananas poured into an ice tray. These icy delights will not only cool them down, but also keep them happy with delightful flavors. You can also make it more challenging by putting the mixture in something like a Toppl (see below), which not only provides a yummy frozen treat, but it makes your dog work a little harder to get the treat which will mentally tire them out.

4. Hide-and-Seek

This classic game is a fantastic way to keep your dog entertained indoors. Have someone hold your dog while you hide in various spots around the house. Call out their name to get them started, and when they find you, reward them with treats or cuddles. Not only is this a fun game, but it also reinforces their recall training!

5. Trick Training

Use the summer months to teach your pup some new tricks! Some fun, easy to train tricks are:

High five
Wave
Bow
Spin in a circle
Pick up an item

Mental stimulation is just as essential as physical exercise, and training sessions can be a great way to keep their minds active and focused.

Conclusion

Summer doesn’t have to mean limiting your dog’s fun all together. By incorporating these engaging indoor activities, you can ensure your furry friend stays cool and happy throughout the summer months. Whether it’s a mind-stimulating puzzle or a refreshing frozen treat, these activities will not only provide entertainment but also strengthen the bond between you and your beloved canine companion. Remember, keeping your dog active and mentally stimulated is vital for their overall well-being, and these indoor activities will do just that! Stay cool, and have a paw-some time with your furry buddy indoors this summer!