When bad weather traps you and your hyperactive pup inside, figuring out how to burn off their excess energy can be a major headache. Without ample physical activity, your pup might turn into restless, destructive, overly hyper. Luckily, there are a lot of indoor workout for high-energye canine that can help to keep them energetic, engaged, and maintained– no backyard or prolonged strolls essential!
Here are 10 fun and functional indoor exercises to keep your dog physically and mentally, even the rain or freezing days.
1. Staircase Sprints
If you have stairs at home, work with it! Rouse your dog to run up and down the stairs (if possible) with a toy or treats. This is a fantastic cardio exercise that will quickly exhaust them.
Safety Tip: Make sure the stairs have carpet or has a non-slip surface to avoid slipping.
2. Tug-of-War
A timeless game that bio-mechanical challenge & instincts of your dog. Use a durable rope toy and let them pull with all their strength. Tug of War also helps with impulse control when teaching them to “drop it” on request.
3. Hide-and-Seek
Conceal treats or a favorite toy around the house and let your dog forage for it. This uses their inbuilt hunting instinct and offers a mental stimulation. For an added fun, hide from them and get them to find you!
4. Indoor Obstacle Course
Create a DIY agility course using household items like:
- Cushions to jump over
- Chairs to weave through
- Blanket tunnels (drape a blanket over furniture)
- A hula hoop to jump through
Guide your dog through the course with treats or a toy to keep them moving.
5. Fetch (Hallway Edition)
If you have a long hallway, play a modified game of fetch. Use a soft toy or ball to avoid damaging walls or furniture. Short, quick sprints will help burn off energy fast.
6. Puzzle Toys & Snuffle Mats
Mental exercise can be just as tiring as physical activity. Use interactive puzzle toys or a snuffle mat to make your dog work for their treats. This keeps them engaged and slows down their eating.
7. Treadmill Workout (For Trained Dogs)
If your dog is comfortable with a treadmill, a short, supervised session can be a great way to burn energy. Start slow and always monitor them to prevent accidents.
8. “Find It” with Scent Work
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell. Hide treats in different spots and encourage them to “find it.” You can also introduce scent detection games with essential oils (dog-safe ones like lavender or anise).
9. Dance Party (Canine Freestyle)
Put on some music and encourage your dog to follow you in fun movements—spins, jumps, and weaving between your legs. This is a playful way to bond while burning energy.
10. Training Sessions (Mental Exercise)
Short, intense training sessions (5-10 minutes) can tire out a high-energy dog. Practice commands like:
- Sit, stay, down
- High-five, spin, roll over
- New tricks like “play dead” or “crawl”
Mental stimulation is just as exhausting as running!
Final Tips for Indoor Exercise Success
Final Tips for Indoor Exercise Success
- There is more chance of success with small (10-15 minute), more frequent sessions for energetic dogs.
- Mix physical and mental games not to be bored.
- Always keep an eye to ensure safety, especially on the part of jumps or stairs.
- Finish the day by a chew toy or relaxing activities and help them wind down.
Bad weather need not get you a hyper, bored dog. Thanks to these exercises for high energy dogs that you can do indoors, you can keep your pup happy and healthy but tired – no matter what’s happening outside!
What is your favorite activity to do with your dog inside? Leave your tips in the comment section! 🐾