10 Fun Things to Do at Home With Your Dog

Are you a pet parent searching for fun things to do at home with your dog? Whether a rainy day or you’re just looking for ways to stay active – keep reading! We’ve got you covered with tons of great ideas for you and your pup!

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There’s nothing quite like spending quality time with your dog at home.

Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or you’re just looking to switch up your routine, coming up with fun dog activities can transform an ordinary day into something special.

For me, it’s always a joy finding new ways to keep my rescue dog, Mirage, entertained and engaged.

Dogs thrive on mental and physical stimulation, and the right activities don’t just keep them happy—they also strengthen your bond.

If you’re ready to make your furry friend’s day a little brighter, you’re in the right place.

Interactive Games for Your Dog

Interactive games are a fantastic way to keep your dog entertained while also strengthening your bond.

They challenge your dog’s mind, burn off extra energy, and add variety to your routine.

Plus, let’s face it—watching your dog’s reaction during a fun activity is one of the best parts of being a dog owner.

Whether your pup is a ball of energy or a more laid-back companion, these activities can be easily tailored to their personality and energy level.

Hide and Seek

You might think of this as a game for kids, but it’s just as fun for dogs—and great mental exercise, too!

Here’s how you can play. Start by having your dog stay in one spot (or have another person hold them) while you pick a hiding spot.

Think of places that aren’t too hard to find but still offer some challenge, like behind a door or under a table.

Once you’re ready, call out to your dog with a cheerful “Come find me!” and wait for the excitement to unfold.

You’ll probably notice how much your dog relies on their nose to locate you.

It’s a joy to watch them sniff around, tail wagging, until they track you down.

As they get better at the game, you can make it more challenging by choosing trickier hiding spots.

For extra fun, you can mix it up by hiding a favorite toy or treat instead of yourself.

It’s a simple activity, but it taps into your dog’s natural instincts while offering plenty of playtime laughs.

Puzzle Toys

If you’re looking for a way to keep your dog engaged and mentally sharp, puzzle toys are perfect.

They’re especially great on days when you’re busy but still want to provide something stimulating for your furry friend.

These toys come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of difficulty.

Most work by requiring your dog to solve a “puzzle” to earn a treat.

Some of the most popular options include:

• Treat-dispensing balls: Your dog rolls or bats them around, and treats fall out.
• Interactive boards: These require your pup to move sliders, lift flaps, or press buttons to access hidden rewards.
• Snuffle mats: These mimic foraging, encouraging your dog to sniff out pieces of kibble or treats buried within.

Watching your dog figure out the toy is as satisfying as the reward itself.

The challenge of solving it keeps them entertained, fights boredom, and helps prevent destructive habits like chewing on furniture.

Plus, puzzle toys are a great way to slow down fast eaters if you use them during mealtime.

Simply fill the toy with their regular food, and voila—your dog has to “work” for their dinner!

Creative Training Sessions

Training sessions aren’t just about teaching commands—they’re a great way to bond with your dog and keep them mentally stimulated.

When you approach training as a fun and creative activity, it becomes something both you and your pup look forward to.

Whether it’s mastering new tricks or turning basic obedience into a playful challenge, these moments build trust and strengthen your connection.

Teaching New Tricks

Teaching your dog new tricks is exciting for both of you.

Not only does it improve their mental focus, but it also deepens your relationship through positive reinforcement.

Plus, who doesn’t love showing off their dog’s latest skills?

Start simple and work your way up:

• Shake paws: Offer your hand, say “shake,” and reward them when they place their paw in your hand.
• Spin in a circle: Guide them with a treat in your hand, moving in a circle, and use the cue “spin.”
• High-five: Similar to “shake,” but hold your palm vertically, encouraging them to tap it.

These tricks are perfect because they’re quick for most dogs to grasp. The key is to make it fun—keep sessions short, use plenty of praise, and don’t stress about perfection.

Celebrate small victories, even if those high-fives are more like soft paw taps at first!

Over time, the training becomes less about the trick and more about the quality time you spend together.

Obedience Games

Obedience training doesn’t have to feel like a chore.

With a little creativity, you can turn it into a game your dog loves.

It’s a sneaky way to reinforce good behavior while keeping them entertained.

Here are a few fun obedience games to try:

• Musical sits: Play music and walk around with your dog. When the music stops, give the cue to “sit.” Reward them for being quick.
• Red light, green light: While walking indoors or in the yard, stop suddenly and say “stay.” Reward them when they pause and wait until you start moving again.
• Hide the treat: Practice “stay” while you hide a treat somewhere nearby. Once it’s hidden, say “find it” and let their nose do the work.

These games sneak some training into your everyday routine, making it less formal and more playful.

Whether you’re reinforcing “sit” or making a recall command part of an exciting hide-and-seek session, your dog will be learning while having the time of their life.

It’s a win-win—you get a well-trained dog, and they get endless fun.

Arts and Crafts with Your Dog

Crafting with your dog is not only fun but also a creative way to spend quality time together.

It’s the perfect mix of hands-on activity and bonding time.

Plus, the end results are keepsakes you can cherish or functional toys your pup will love.

Ready to turn your living room into a mini art studio? Let’s get started.

Dog-Friendly Painting

Ever thought about making art with your dog?

Dog-friendly painting is easier than you’d think, and it’s a safe way to let your dog’s creativity shine through.

All you need are a few non-toxic materials, some space to get messy, and a willingness to embrace the chaos.

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Non-toxic, pet-safe paint: Look for washable varieties specifically made for kids or pets.
• Thick paper or canvas: Something sturdy enough to handle some paw pressure.
• A shallow tray or plate: For spreading out the paint.
• Baby wipes or a damp towel: Cleanup will be a breeze if you’re prepared.

Start by spreading the paint evenly in the shallow tray.

Gently press your dog’s paw into the paint—don’t worry, some dogs find this ticklish and hilarious—and then help them “stamp” their paw onto the paper or canvas.

For dogs who might be wary of the paint, you can use a plastic baggy: seal the paper and paint inside the bag, then guide them to tap or swipe their paws on it from the outside.

Same results, less mess.

Once finished, let the masterpiece dry and hang it up somewhere you can both admire it.

Fridge art isn’t just for kids anymore!

It’s a simple way to celebrate your dog’s unique paw print while creating a memory you’ll treasure.

Custom Dog Toys

Why buy expensive dog toys when you can make custom ones at home?

Not only do DIY dog toys save money, but they’re also perfect for fitting your pup’s specific interests.

Whether your dog loves to chew or prefers tug-of-war, creating toys with items you already have around the house is a win-win.

Here are some easy toy ideas:

1. T-Shirt Tug Rope: Grab an old, clean t-shirt you no longer wear. Cut it into long strips and braid them tightly together. Tie knots at each end to give your dog something to grip onto.
2. Tennis Ball Treat Dispenser: Take a tennis ball, cut a small slit into it, and tuck a few small treats inside. Your dog will have a blast figuring out how to get them out.
3. Sock Snuffle Toy: Stuff an old sock with smaller pieces of fabric or crinkly paper. Tie off the end, and you’ve got a noisy, engaging toy your dog will love shaking around.
4. Plastic Bottle Crinkle Toy: Use an empty plastic water bottle (with the cap removed) inside an old sock. Tie off the sock, and you’ve got a safe, crackly toy that’s great for chewing.

Every dog has their own play style, so tweak these ideas to fit their personality.

Just make sure everything you use is pet-safe and doesn’t have any small parts that could break off and pose a choking hazard.

Watching your dog enjoy something you made just for them? That’s pure tail-wagging satisfaction.

Home Adventure Activities

When you think about adventures, your mind probably goes to parks, trails, or outdoor spaces, but there are plenty of exciting activities you can do with your dog without leaving the house.

With a little creativity, you can turn everyday items into tools for fun and adventure.

These ideas will not only keep your dog entertained, but they’ll also give you both a chance to bond in new and exciting ways.

Indoor Or Outdoor Agility Course

Who says agility courses are only for the backyard or a professional setup?

You can easily create one in your living room using basic household items.

Not only will it keep your dog physically active, but it’s also a great way to test their problem-solving skills.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Gather materials from around your home. Chairs, cushions, brooms, and blankets work wonders.
2. Set up tunnels and jumps. Drape a blanket over two chairs to make a tunnel. For jumps, place a broomstick between two stacks of books or use a low stool.
3. Create weave poles. Line up empty water bottles or soda cans in a zigzag formation for your dog to navigate.
4. Incorporate a pause station. Lay a mat or towel on the floor and teach your dog to “sit” or “stay” on it for a few seconds.

Once everything’s ready, guide your dog through the course using treats or their favorite toy.

Start slow, encouraging them every step of the way.

You’ll love watching their confidence grow as they master each obstacle!

Don’t worry about perfection—this is all about having fun and keeping your dog engaged.

For smaller breeds or older pups, adjust the setup to match their abilities so everyone enjoys the activity safely.

Treasure Hunt

If your dog has a good nose (spoiler: most dogs do), a treasure hunt is the perfect way to keep them mentally stimulated.

It taps into their natural instincts to sniff and search, while keeping things playful.

Follow these simple steps to set up a treasure hunt:

1. Choose the “treasures.” Small treats, favorite toys, or even pieces of kibble will work.
2. Start easy. Hide treats in obvious places where your dog is likely to find them, like under a table or on the edge of a sofa.
3. Add a command. Use phrases like “Find it!” or “Where is it?” to signal the game has begun.
4. Make it more challenging as they catch on. Hide treasures in trickier spots—inside a shoe, behind a door, or under a blanket.

To make things interesting, try grouping a few treats together for a bigger “reward” or use toys with unique scents to stretch their detective skills.

Watching your dog sniff around with their tail wagging in excitement never gets old.

It’s like their version of solving a mystery, and you’re the mastermind behind the clues.

Feeling extra creative?

Turn it into a full scavenger hunt by including different rooms in your house or hiding a “grand prize” with extra goodies at the end.

It’s a fun way to keep your dog guessing—and moving!

Relaxing Activities for Quiet Time

Not every activity with your dog has to be high-energy or action-packed.

In fact, quiet, calming moments can be just as meaningful.

These relaxing activities allow both you and your dog to unwind while strengthening the bond you share.

Whether you’re looking to slow down after a busy day or just create a soothing environment, these moments of calm can bring you closer together.

Cuddle Time and Movies

After a long day, there’s nothing more comforting than snuggling on the couch with your dog.

Dogs are natural cuddlers, and physical closeness not only makes them feel secure but also releases feel-good hormones for both of you.

Why not make a cozy night out of it with a dog-friendly movie?

Pick a film that features dogs or animals.

Not only might it capture their attention, but it’s also a fun way to engage them in your quiet time.

Some great options include “The Secret Life of Pets” or classic family-friendly titles like “Homeward Bound.”

Dim the lights, grab a soft blanket, and make the setup extra inviting—your dog will love the closeness and comfort of sharing this time with you.

To make it even better, you can include your pup in the snacks!

Prepare some dog-safe treats like carrot sticks or plain popcorn (hold the butter and salt) so they can munch while you do.

It’s a simple, sweet way to keep them happy while helping you both relax.

The warmth from their body as they rest on your lap? That’s a little bit of magic.

Massage and Grooming Sessions

Massages aren’t just for humans—your dog can enjoy them too.

A gentle massage has tons of benefits, from relaxing their muscles to improving their circulation.

Plus, it’s an incredibly calming activity for dogs who might be anxious or overly energetic.

Find a quiet spot, have your dog lie down, and use slow, circular motions on areas like their shoulders, back, and legs.

Watch for their cues—if their eyes soften, their tail wags gently, or they let out a happy sigh, you’re doing it right.

Pair this with some light grooming for an even better experience.

Regular grooming does more than keep their coat looking great—it actually helps foster trust and strengthens your bond.

Brushing their fur can feel like a mini massage in itself and helps to remove loose hair and dirt.

Use a brush suited for their coat type and go slowly, especially if grooming isn’t their favorite thing.

With time, many dogs come to love it and will lean into the brush for more.

For a final calming touch, consider using a damp, warm towel to wipe down their fur or paws.

It’s soothing and makes them feel cared for, especially after a walk or playtime.

These quiet moments, filled with your gentle touch, create a space where your dog feels safe, loved, and completely at ease.

Final Thoughts

Spending time at home with your dog doesn’t have to be boring.

From creative training sessions to relaxing quiet-time moments, there’s no shortage of activities to keep your dog happy and engaged.

Every game, craft, or cuddle session strengthens your bond while meeting their mental and physical needs.

So why not try a hide-and-seek game, set up a mini agility course, or create a DIY toy this week?

These dog activities don’t just entertain—they remind your pup they’re loved and cherished.

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Your turn

Do you love planning time at home with your pup? Which of these fun things to do at home with your dog is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!

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