Rainy afternoons are a good opportunity to spend a little time playing with your dog indoors. You do not need a cupboard full of equipment: a familiar reward, a clear space and a few minutes together can be enough.
These five indoor games for dogs are easy to introduce at home. Choose activities your dog enjoys, keep them gentle and let your dog take a break whenever they want.
Indoor games complement your dog's normal exercise, outdoor sniffing and toilet breaks.
Before You Start
Set aside a small allowance of rewards before playing, and choose pieces that suit your dog's size and eating habits. You can also use some of their usual daily food if appropriate.
Use a clear area with a non-slip surface. Keep other pets separate during food games, supervise throughout and provide fresh drinking water.
1. Play a Simple “Find It” Game
Start by placing one small reward on the floor while your dog watches. Say “find it” and let them investigate.
Once they understand, place a reward a little further away or just out of direct sight in an easy, accessible spot. Keep everything at floor level, away from cables, furniture gaps and places where you do not want your dog searching.
Make the game easy enough for your dog to succeed. If they seem confused, show them where to look.
2. Practice a Familiar Cue
Pick something your dog already knows, such as “sit” or a gentle nose touch to your open hand.
Ask once, reward their response and give them time before trying again. A handful of relaxed repetitions is plenty; there is no need to turn your afternoon into a long training session.
For dogs that tolerate beef, our Beef Liver Bites are one option to consider. Check each piece and only use portions that are suitable for your dog.
3. Try “Which Hand?”
Let your dog see you place a small reward in one hand, then loosely close both hands and hold them out.
Allow your dog to sniff. When they investigate the correct hand, open it and offer the reward from your palm.
Keep your hands relaxed and stop if your dog starts nipping, pawing hard or becoming frustrated. You can return to the easier “find it” game instead.
4. Make a Short Treat Trail
Place a few small rewards in a short trail across a clear section of floor.
Show your dog the first piece and let them follow the trail at their own pace. Start with the rewards close together so the task is straightforward.
Use part of the allowance you set aside at the start. A longer trail does not need to mean more food.
5. Search for a Favourite Toy
Indoor games do not always need food.
Show your dog a favourite toy, then place it somewhere obvious nearby. Encourage them to find it and celebrate with praise or a gentle game when they do.
Once the idea is familiar, try a slightly less obvious position. Keep the toy within easy reach so your dog does not need to jump or scramble.
Keep Treat Portions in Mind
WSAVA recommends keeping treats below 10% of a dog's daily calorie intake. Count rewards from games alongside chews and any extras given by other members of the household.
That limit is a ceiling, rather than an amount you need to use. If your dog has dietary restrictions or follows a veterinary-prescribed diet, ask your veterinary team which rewards are appropriate.
Choose One Game and Start Small
You do not need to try all five activities in one afternoon. Start with one easy game, watch how your dog responds and finish while they are still enjoying it.
A few small rewards and some time together can make a rainy afternoon more interesting.