Inclement weather can make exercising your dog a chore or even impossible. When your best friend can’t get outside, pent up energy can lead to destructive behaviors like chewing, zooming through the house, getting into the garbage, etc. So how do you tire out your dog when you can’t go outside? Here are a few ideas to help get your dog’s energy out, without destroying your home.
1. Indoor Obstacle Course. Clear out a space in a room (be sure to move lamps, cords, anything that could trip your dog or break) and set up an indoor obstacle course. Books or chairs with a broom stick can make a jump; a dining room table covered on two sides with sheets can form a tunnel as can the couch pulled away from the wall; chairs can be used as cones to run around. Be imaginative and you can create a safe way to exercise your dog without damaging your furniture.
2. Forage for Food. Instead of just feeding your dog out of his bowl, hide his kibble in a room, or throughout the house for him to find. Not only will it keep him busy, but he will exert energy and tire himself out while getting his meal.
3. Teach a New Trick. Training uses brain energy which can tire a dog out just as well as a run can. Do a few 20 minute sessions during the day and your dog will be a lot less likely to get into trouble. Remember, it doesn’t have to be something hard or even obedience related. Take the opportunity to work on something fun like a high five, pick up your toys, or roll over.
