Dogs need exercise just as much, or even more than us. Most breeds need to run around at least once a day, and even if you have a small dog you should think about its health and try to keep them active. As a rule of thumb consider walking your dog for at least thirty minutes a day or If you cannot go out then try to exercise your dog indoors.
We researched and compiled a list of creative ways to exercise your pup indoors so that you can both stay healthy and protected.
Put your doggo on a treadmill
Do you own a treadmill? If you do, then good news! You are not the only one that can go for a run in the living room. Start by teaching Fido how it works by setting a very slow speed. Once he gets the hang of it, start increasing it little by little, and give him a treat once in a while. Please make sure to always supervise this activity for safety purposes!
Get a mind puzzle
It is not only the mind that is engaged with a puzzle toy but the body too. Dogs usually keep very active while playing with puzzles. A puzzle food dispenser is a fantastic way to burn some calories!
Run up and down the stairs
Stairs are a great form of exercise, both for you and your dog. Did you know that you can burn up to 200 calories by running up and down the stairs for ten minutes? An excellent way to stay in shape! Encourage your fur friend to follow you by giving him little treats once every few minutes. Alternatively, sit on the top of the stairs and throw his ball down for him to catch and bring back to you. Repeat and repeat!
Throw a ball
Even if you live in a small space you can still throw a ball around. If there are more people living in your house even better! Sit on opposite sides of the living room and pass the ball to each other, and have fun watching your dog run from one person to the other! This will likely get him tired enough in no time.
Dogs with jobs
Do you have a smart dog that can be well trained? Give him a job! Train your hound to carry a basket around or to pick up clothes from the floor. Apart from keeping him in shape, you will also get internet points by posting a very cute video of your dog “working”!
Hide and Seek with treats
This is an easy game I taught my little Chihuahua, and I’m sure your pup will pick up in no time. Hide one or more treats around the house and give your dog the command to look for them. Show a treat and let him smell it before hiding, and use your voice intonation to prompt him to look around. This will be very exciting, especially if you choose a well-loved treat, so your dog will be running around all corners of your home! Remember to act really excited when he finds it. This is a favorite in our household!
Lack of exercise can result in obesity, loss of muscle mass and destructive behavior so make sure you Exercise your dog Indoors. A bored dog with a lot of energy to burn will likely turn to chew shoes, scratch and go to the toilet inside the house. Remember that your dog does not hate you or is holding a grudge, he is simply trying to release anxiety feelings! A tired dog is a happy dog, and a healthy one too. Obesity can lead to all sorts of issues, such as heart and breathing problems. Avoid all that by engaging in the activities above!
Check out our Pet Training articles for expert guidance on training your furry companion. Explore articles on effective training techniques, behavior modification tips, and building a strong bond with your pet. Empower yourself with valuable insights to enhance your pet's training experience and strengthen your relationship with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a treadmill to exercise my dog indoors?
A: Yes, a treadmill can be a great indoor exercise option for dogs, especially during bad weather. Introduce your dog to it gradually, starting at a slow pace, and always supervise them during use to ensure their safety.
Q: What are mind puzzles and how do they help exercise my dog indoors?
A: Mind puzzles are interactive toys that challenge your dog to solve problems — like finding hidden treats — to keep them mentally stimulated. They provide important cognitive exercise that tires dogs out just as effectively as physical activity.
Q: Is running stairs a good workout for dogs?
A: Running up and down stairs is an excellent high-intensity indoor workout for dogs. It engages their muscles, burns energy quickly, and can be done in short bursts. Always check that the stairs are safe and non-slippery before letting your dog run on them.
Q: How can I play fetch with my dog inside the house?
A: Use a soft ball or toy in a hallway or large room to play indoor fetch. Keep throws controlled to avoid damage and ensure your dog has enough space to run safely. Even short fetch sessions are great for burning off energy.
Q: What does it mean to give a dog a "job" indoors?
A: Giving your dog a job means assigning them a purposeful task, such as carrying items, fetching specific objects by name, or tidying up toys. Dogs thrive with a sense of purpose, and task-based activities provide both mental and physical stimulation indoors.
Q: How do I play hide and seek with treats to exercise my dog?
A: Hide treats around the house in various spots and encourage your dog to sniff them out. This engages their powerful sense of smell, provides mental enrichment, and keeps them active as they search from room to room.
Author: Laila Newman
