depression in dogs

When it’s raining outside, it can certainly put a dampener on your plans. All of those outdoor activities you planned for the day will need to be rescheduled. And then there’s your dog – who is restless to play and run around. Unfortunately, they don’t quite understand that a rainy day means no time in the park, or a ball game in the yard.

So what’s a dog owner to do when stuck indoors for the day on a rainy day? Fortunately, there are a ton of activities that you can do! You just need to get a bit creative and think outside of the box. If you’re stuck on ideas, check out our list below of 4 rainy day activities to keep you and your dog entertained. Who knows, you might even hope for another rainy day after trying them out!

rainy day dog activities

1. Start Training Your Dog

You know all of those times you put off training your dog because you were too busy? A rainy day is the perfect time to get a head start (or continue where you left off) training them. Training your dog, after all, is an essential part of ensuring your dog is well behaved and also follows directions.

Starting to train your dog can be a bit intimidating, but fortunately, there are many resources available online to help you out, such as these essential commands to teach your dog from Cesar’s Way. Another great resource is YouTube – there are countless videos dedicated to shining a light on how to transform your dog into an obedient, friendly pooch.

2. Teach Your Dog Some Tricks!

How does that expression go? “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” Fortunately, when it comes to actually teaching your dog tricks, it doesn’t matter what age they are! While teaching your dog some tricks is quite similar to training, the goal is different. While training is focused on modifying their behavior, teaching your dog tricks is a fun and rewarding activity for both you and your dog.

Maybe you’d like to teach your dog to fetch something, or perhaps to shake your hand. The possibilities are endless, so check out these tricks to learn more. Just be sure not to push your dog too hard. Teaching your dog tricks should be done in moderation – otherwise, your dog may become restless and refuse to continue.

3. Play Around in an Indoor Playpen

Whether you’ve run out of energy to play with your dog, need to get on with your daily tasks, or just need a bit of a rest, it’s natural that at some point in your day you’ll want to have a break from entertaining your dog. That’s why we love the idea of an indoor playpen for dogs. Not only will investing in one allow you to continue with your day, but it also lets your dog continue with theirs!

So what exactly is an indoor playpen for dogs? It is a structure that sets boundaries for your dog so they can play and rest within a secure, enclosed space. There isn’t just one model of playpen – there are many different types varying in size, features, and other structural properties. The best thing is it’s not a purchase you’ll just use one time – you can make use of an indoor playpen even on non-rainy days!

4. Stage A Doggie Photoshoot

Photos are a fantastic way to capture memories of time spent with our four-legged friends – especially when they grow up so fast! But perhaps your rainy day dog activitiesphotos are always a bit on the unprofessional side. Why not take the opportunity to make some high-quality photos when the weather is bleak?

The type of photos you take is up to you – look through Pinterest for ideas. Perhaps you’d like to take some classic black and white photos – both a closeup of your dog’s face and of your dog playing around. Or maybe you’d like to be a bit more playful, and dress your dog up in some doggie costumes. You can even use filters on your phone to take some hilarious photos of your pooch. And don’t forget to take a few with you in them as well! You can print the best ones and frame them, making for a great way to remember your rainy day indoors with your dog.

Dr. Ruth Roberts DVM, CVA

Dr. Ruth Roberts Holistiv Vet

Dr. Ruth Roberts is The Original Pet Health Coach, and has supported thousands of dogs and cats to overcome health hurdles like kidney disease, GI Illness, allergies and cancer. Her natural approach to healing creates a gentle yet effective path for your pet to take on their journey to wellbeing. Dr. Ruth created The Original CrockPet Diet, a balanced home cooked diet for pets, as the foundation of health. Dr. Ruth is now training passionate pet parents, and pet professionals to be Certified Holistic Pet Health Coaches so that more pets can be helped holistically.