Rainy Day Activities for You and Your Dog

As I write this blog post, it is pouring rain outside and has been for the better part of the last week. We walk in the rain, play in the rain, and even do some training in the rain. But having a young dog in the house, I know spending the day cooped up can be challenging. Today we are going to do some scent work games (like those Ari is doing in the photo) and some doorway manners training. Here are a list of 20 things you can do when it is wet and cold. What do you enjoy doing with your dog? Perhaps you’ll share some of your ideas!

Walk in the rain—you and your dog will probably be the only ones out!
Splash in a puddle—together.
Have fun toweling off.
Cuddle in front of the fireplace.
Read a good book to your dog or watch a movie together.
Play find it. Find a treat, find a toy, find a scent.
Play hide and seek. Leave your dog on a stay, then hide. Call your dog to come find you!
Try 101 Things to Do With a Box. Google this fun shaping game and give it a try!
Teach your dog to push an exercise ball with his nose.
Train a new trick. Try shake, Wave or Give Me Five. Teach Spins, Twirls and Leg Weave. Check out the Kikopup videos on YouTube for ideas.
Try puzzle toys and brain games for your dog. Check out Nina Ottosson games (nina-ottosson.com). Set up a rotating library of puzzle games with your friends or dog club.
Try a treat dispensing ball or a snuffle mat.
Need a break—give your dog a stuffed Kong or a great bone to chew.
Make paw-print art with non-toxic paints.
Catch up on your training. Work on something you’ve been putting off practicing. Practice leave it, stay, polite greetings, or handling exercises.
Practice relaxation protocol or other settle on the mat exercises.
Shape your dog to pick up an item—and bring it to you!
Teach your dog the names of his or her toys!
More than one dog? Practice training exercises together. Or have one dog stay while the other does a trick. Take turns!
Make your own food toy. Try putting a few treats in a box, tape it up, and let the dog tear it up to get the treats.

Enjoy, pass around, and share with friends. Special thanks to Matthew, Sandy M., Stephanne, Nikki, Ann Miya, Jackie, Bonnie, and everyone who contributed directly and indirectly to this list!