Winter indoor games for dogs

If you live in the northern hemisphere, winter is here. And with it, dark, long and cold days. If you are so lucky to live in a region with lots of snow, you and your dog might enjoy a winter wonderland. But those of us who mostly see slush when we look outside might want to find some fun indoor games to keep our dogs entertained this winter. 

Walks are important for your dog

Obviously, we’re not suggesting that you stop walking your dog! Walks are important for your dog’s health and well-being. But many dogs prefer to get home as quickly as possible when it's cold and raining outside. They still need an outlet for the penned up energy, though and mental stimulation games are a great way to help with that.

Mental stimulation for dogs

Dogs are smart and, at all ages, love to use their brains. Not getting enough mental stimulation can have severe effects. Dogs who experience boredom regularly have a higher chance of becoming sick and developing mental health issues, which can result in a decrease in life expectancy. 

To put it positively: Mentally stimulating your dog will make her healthier, happier and live longer - what’s not to love about that?

DIY mental workout games

The time before Christmas can be tough on your wallet. The good news is that you don’t have to spend lots of money to give your dog a good mental workout. 

And why not put all the boxes you get delivered these days to good use and create some fun DIY mental workout games for your dog?

Mixed-treat box game

For our Mixed-Treat box game, take one of the empty boxes you surely have at home these days and fill it with toilet paper rolls, tennis balls - and whatever else you deem safe for your dog to sniff around in. Then add your dog’s favourite treats and let the sniffing fun begin. 

Always observe your dog while playing this game to make sure that none of the non-edible content of the box ends up in your dog’s stomach. 

Egg-carton game

Our Egg-carton game is a great way to make use of the empty egg cartons you have left from all the Christmas cookie baking. For careful dogs, simply put some treats in the carton and close it. If your dog would solve this in no time, fill in treats, punch small holes in the carton and then close the carton with tape. 

As for the previous game, stay close to your dog if you suspect that he might eat the carton. 

Tennis ball tray

For our Tennis ball tray you won’t need a carton but can put a muffin tray to good use. Simply hide treats in the holes and cover them with tennis balls. 

For a longer lasting challenge, put some wet food in the muffin tray and put it in the freezer, so your dog will have to work harder to get all the deliciousness out. 

Want more DIY brain games for dogs? 

Have you tried all three games and your dog is asking for more? Don’t you worry - we’ve got you covered! At Go Dogo, we care deeply about mental stimulation for dogs and regularly upload new DIY mental workout ideas on our YouTube channel, Instagram and Pinterest.

If you want your dog to become a star, film her while doing one of our DIY brain games and tag #godogo when you upload it on Instagram. Then we might share your smart doggo with our followers.

Go Dogo is a pet tech startup that is on a mission to improve dogs’ lives by getting them the mental stimulation they need to be happy and healthy. Go Dogo offers a mental exercise in the form of stimulating games which are adjusted to the dog’s individual training level and needs. Find more information on the Go Dogo game here.