How to keep your dog entertained indoors during self-isolation

In these unprecedented circumstances, when many of us are staying in our homes, it’s natural to worry about venturing into public spaces outdoors. If you’re a pet owner, whose companions rely on you for walkies, you might be wondering how best to entertain and exercise them from home. If possible, involve them in your own outdoor exercise per day in an open space, but get creative inside the rest of the time.

Canagan the grain-free pet food experts reveal the best ways you can ensure your dog is having just as much fun indoors as they would out on their favourite walk:

TRICKS AND INDOOR GAMES

A productive way to entertain your dog is to teach them new tricks. Train them to bark on command, shake hands, play fetch or roll over – the list is endless! There’s no better time to test their intelligence with a few new skills.

PLAY WITH TOYS

There are plenty of indoor activities for dogs which involve toys to keep them entertained for hours. Dog puzzles will allow your dog to figure out where a tasty treat is hidden by manoeuvring different levers which will reveal the delicacy. This game teaches your dog resilience and patience. Use it as a form of ‘positive reinforcement’ to teach them that good behaviour is rewarded.

A good old-fashioned game of fetch with a soft ball or toy is a great way to entertain a dog with boundless energy. If you’re lucky enough to have a long corridor or a spacious living room, and valuables are safely stowed away, indoor fetch can make for a fun, energetic afternoon.

HIDE-AND-SEEK

It’s popular among children, but hide-and-seek can be enjoyed by the whole family – including your dog! If your companion is trained to ‘stay’ and ‘come’ when you call them, it’s a great game to keep them entertained.

Tell your dog to ‘stay’ so they don’t follow you to your hiding place. If this command is a work in progress, wait until they’re distracted then have your family members hide around the house. Choose somewhere that is not out of sight initially, so they can easily find you, then choose harder spots. This will boost their confidence and stretch their instincts with each ‘round’. Take it in turns to call them. Each family member, when found, must congratulate your furry friend and show them lots of love. Dogs experience the same thrills as children, so love being surprised and receiving attention.

Hide-and-seek works because dogs have a ‘pack’ mentality, so will seek out their human leader. Your pet will rely on visual and voice cues initially. The game stimulates the brain, as it encourages them to remember their name, while strengthening recall behaviour. They’ll soon reverse their strategy and go back to their primal instinct – scent. Not to mention the physical benefits – the search will give your pup a great workout physically. It’s also a wonderful way to strengthen your bond.

BUBBLES

Bubbles are a fun, inexpensive way to entertain your pup – and children too! Always check the label before you buy bubbles to ensure they’re safe for dogs. Did you know you can even buy ‘dog bubbles’ in different flavours? There are even dog-friendly bubble machines for when you want to leave them to it.

ENJOY ONE OUTING WITH YOUR DOG IN AN OPEN SPACE

The Government has recently granted us all one form of outdoor exercise a day, such as a run or walk. If you’re feeling well, why not use the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and fitness with your pup? Our research shows that running your companion boosts your mood, as well as your physical health! A more vigorous form of exercise, running allows your dog to use different muscles to improve their joints and will brighten their day too. Find a quiet, open spot of land like a field and enjoy a sunny stroll or energetic run. The golden rule is to stick within the social distancing guidelines of keeping two meters apart from other people. If you start experiencing coronavirus symptoms, it’s advised that a trusted friend looks after your pooch until you recover.

Ensuring your dog is comfortable, entertained and of course safe at this time may be worrying you. But it’s also an opportunity to enjoy new activities and bond with your companion. They’re untouched by the turbulent times we’re currently experiencing, will show you lots of love and relish the extra quality time. So, rest assured that they’ll entertain you too.