Rainy Day Fun: Indoor Activities to Enjoy With Your Dog

Rainy days might excite some dogs, but not everyone is keen to go outside. (I'm looking at you, dachshunds!) but they don’t have to mean bored dogs and cabin fever. There are plenty of ways to keep your pup entertained, active, and mentally stimulated without ever leaving the house. Whether you're in a tiny apartment or have a bit more space, here are some fun indoor activities to try with your dog when Sydney goes from glam to glum.

1. Indoor Interactive Games

You don’t need much space for a game that works your dog’s brain. Try:

• Hide and Seek: Hide somewhere in the house and call your dog’s name. Most dogs love the challenge of sniffing you out. Rev them up by doing a Squid game freeze game, or just peek at them around corners, they are pretty easily pleased!

• Find the Treats: Hide treats around the house. Start with easy spots and work up to more difficult hiding places. Make it harder by putting them inside old toilet roll paper or wrapping them up like pass the parcel!
  

  

  
  

2. Indoor Training Sessions

Rainy days are perfect for brushing up on obedience or teaching new tricks. Dogs love having a job to do, and even 5–10 minutes of training can make a big difference.

• Work on basics like sit, stay, and come.

• Teach a new trick—like “roll over,” “high five,” or “spin.”

• Use treats or toys as rewards and keep sessions short and upbeat.

  
  

3. Puzzle Toys & Enrichment for dogs

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise.

• Try food-dispensing toys or snuffle mats to turn mealtime into an activity.

• Freeze peanut butter, plain yoghurt, or soft food in a Kong for a longer-lasting treat.

• Rotate your dog’s toys regularly to keep things interesting. Don't forget to wash those things!

4. Indoor Obstacle Course

Transform your living room into a mini agility course.

• Use chairs, broomsticks, and cushions to create hurdles and tunnels.

• Teach your dog to weave between dining chairs or jump over low objects.

• Always supervise and go at your dog’s pace—keep it safe and fun.
  

5. Do some dog spa activities

Get gorgeous for when the sun comes back

• Get some nail trimming done with a scratch board, grinder or some clippers

• Do a really good brush session - your groomer with thank you and your next groom will be better if they don't have to get out the shears.

• A dog massage - a dogsage. Really get them in their zen with a nice long relaxing rub. \

• If they like the hair dryer - it's a good time for a bath!

6. Bake Homemade Dog Treats

Rainy days are perfect for baking—why not make something your pup can enjoy too?

• Look up simple dog-safe treat recipes using ingredients like oats, pumpkin, banana, or bone broth treats

• Let your dog taste-test along the way—they’ll love being your sous-chef.
  

7. Set Up a Dog Photo Shoot

If you’re stuck inside, why not make some memories?

• Grab your phone or camera and take some portraits of your dog indoors.

• Use window light and a simple background (like your couch or bed) for soft, natural shots.

• If you're after something professional, a rainy day might be the perfect time to book a cosy studio session.

  
  

  

Remember: It’s Okay to Take It Easy

Some dogs (and humans!) get a little stir-crazy indoors, but others are happy to take a break. Don’t feel guilty if it’s a slower day. A little engagement, love, and snuggle time go a long way.

If you’re looking to create something beautiful out of a rainy day, I’d love to welcome you and your dog to my cosy, dry Hurlstone Park studio. Let’s turn your time indoors into timeless portraits.