Summertime usually means fun in the sun. While spending time outdoors can be healthy for you and your dog, it can be dangerous as well. We all know that humans can suffer heat stroke or exhaustion if we spend too much time outside, but you may not realize that your dogs can develop the same conditions. That's why it's important to have some fun indoor activities for your dog on those hot summer days.
Find the Treat
You can let your dog play "hide and seek" with their treats. Just hide them somewhere in the house, and let your dog use their keen sense of smell to find them. You'll want to keep the age and temperament of your dog in mind. Hide it well enough to be a challenge, but not so well that they can't find them.
Take the Stairs
We've all been told how taking the stairs instead of the elevator can be beneficial for our health. The same goes for your dog. If you have a flight of stairs in your home, play fetch on them. Throw the toy at the top of the stairs, and let your dog fetch it.
Teach an Old Dog New Tricks
Mental stimulation is just as important to your dog's health and happiness as physical exercise. Teaching them a new trick is a great way to exercise your dog's mind, and strengthen your bond. It will also give you and your dog a sense of accomplishment. Using a clicker can help with training your dog.
Puzzle It Out
Food puzzles are another great way to get your dog's mind going. Puzzle toys come in many different varieties. A few can even be linked to your smartphone, so your dog will be entertained while you aren't there.
Give Them a Job
Some breeds of dogs are much happier when they have a job to do. Teach them to pick up their toys, fetch your slippers, or turn off the light. Your dog will feel useful and content, and you will have some unexpected help around the house.
These are a few ways to keep your dog entertained on those hot summer days when it isn't safe for them to be outdoors. They are a great way to keep them safe and entertained.
