Rainy Day Dog Enrichment: 6 Indoor Games to Tire Your Dog Out
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Some days the rain doesn't stop, the fields are a swamp, and a long walk just isn't going to happen. Most dogs cope fine with a shorter walk now and then, as long as their brains get a workout instead. Sniffing, searching and problem-solving tire a dog out in a way a quick lap of the block doesn't. Here are simple indoor games for wet days, plus how to get the most from a snuffle mat or snuffle ball.
Why sniffing tires dogs out
A dog's nose is their main way of understanding the world. Sniffing slows them down, focuses their attention and gives them something to work at. Ten or fifteen minutes of searching for food can leave many dogs ready for a nap, which makes nose games a handy swap on days when the weather wins.
1. Snuffle mat breakfast
Instead of putting dinner or breakfast in a bowl, scatter some of it into a snuffle mat. The fleece strips hide the kibble, so your dog has to root it out with their nose. Start by sprinkling food on top so it's easy to find, then push it deeper into the strips as they get the idea.
Our Fleece Offcut Dog Snuffle Mat is made from polar fleece offcuts from our workroom on a rubber base, so it stays put on the floor and gives those offcuts a second life.
2. The snuffle ball roll
A snuffle ball works like a snuffle mat your dog can push around. Tuck treats into the fleece, and as they nose and roll it, the treats work loose. It's a good choice for dogs who like to move while they search, and it packs into a bag for trips away or the car.
3. Find it
- Ask your dog to sit and wait (or have someone hold them).
- Let them watch you place a treat a short distance away and say "find it".
- Release them to go and get it.
- Once they've got the hang of it, hide treats out of sight: behind a chair leg, under a cushion corner, in another room.
Keep hiding spots at floor level and away from anything they shouldn't chew.
4. The cup game
Put a treat under one of three plastic cups, shuffle them slowly, and let your dog nose or paw the right one. Lift it to reward them. Easy to set up, and great for puppies learning to focus.
5. Tug, done properly
Tug is brilliant for burning off energy indoors and building a bond. Use a proper tug toy like our Fleece Offcut Dog Tug Toy rather than a sleeve or sock, let your dog win sometimes, and teach a "drop" so the game has a clear start and finish.
6. Short training sessions
Two or three five-minute sessions of practising tricks or basic commands (sit, down, paw, spin, stay) are mentally tiring and reinforce good manners. Use small treats and finish while your dog is still keen.
Keeping enrichment safe
- Supervise: snuffle mats, snuffle balls and fabric toys are for play with you around, not to be left with your dog unattended.
- Check regularly: put toys away if they get damaged or your dog starts chewing pieces off.
- Count the treats: take treats from their daily food allowance so rainy days don't turn into extra calories.
- Keep it clean: shake out crumbs after use and wash fleece toys regularly.
When you do get out
If you brave a quick wet walk, a good coat and a proper drying routine make all the difference. See our guides on whether your dog needs a coat and how to dry your dog after a wet, muddy walk.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a dog use a snuffle mat?
Most dogs will happily search for 10 to 20 minutes. Start with short sessions and stay with them while they play.
Can puppies use snuffle mats?
Yes, with supervision. Keep it easy at first, with food scattered on top, so they succeed quickly.
Can I put wet food in a snuffle mat?
Dry kibble or small dry treats work best. Wet food gets stuck in the fleece and makes cleaning harder.
Browse the full range of toys and enrichment, all handmade in our UK workroom.
Hugo and Ted: handcrafted for dogs and their people, made in Britain.
