7 Easy Indoor Training Games to Keep Your Dog Mentally Stimulated on Rainy Days

Let’s be real—some days, the weather just won’t cooperate. Whether it’s pouring rain, freezing cold, or just plain miserable outside, your dog still needs exercise—not just physically, but mentally.

The good news? You don’t need a backyard or sunshine to keep your dog’s brain working. Mental stimulation can be just as tiring (and satisfying!) as a long walk, and it’s one of the best ways to prevent boredom, anxiety, and destructive behavior.

Here are 7 fun, low-effort training games you can do inside your home—no fancy equipment or large space required.

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1. Name That Toy

If your dog has a few favorite toys, start teaching the names of each one. Begin by holding up a toy, saying its name (“Ball”), then giving it to them. Repeat several times, then mix it up and ask, “Where’s your ball?”

Why it works: Builds vocabulary, encourages focus, and keeps your dog thinking.

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2. Find It! (Scent Game)

Hide treats around a room while your dog is in another space. Then release them with, “Find it!” Start easy (in plain sight), then increase difficulty by hiding treats under furniture or inside boxes.

Why it works: Engages their natural sniffing instincts—scent work is seriously satisfying for dogs.

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3. Go to Place

Teach your dog to go to a bed, mat, or crate on cue and stay there. Start by luring them onto the mat, reward, and release. Gradually add duration and distractions.

Why it works: Reinforces calm behavior, impulse control, and gives them a job to do.

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4. Indoor Fetch + Drop It

If you’ve got the space, a hallway game of fetch can burn off some steam. Combine it with a “drop it” cue to add obedience practice.

Why it works: Physical energy outlet + mental exercise in one short session.

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5. Touch Target

Teach your dog to touch your hand (or a specific object) with their nose. Hold out your hand and say “Touch.” When their nose connects—click/reward. Add challenges by moving your hand to different locations.

Why it works: Builds focus, direction-following, and is great for teaching more complex tricks later.

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6. Puzzle Feeders or DIY Food Games

Use food-dispensing toys, muffin tins with tennis balls over kibble, or hide treats in towels and let your dog figure it out. You can also freeze food in a Kong for a longer challenge.

Why it works: Encourages problem-solving, slows down eating, and gives their brain a real workout.

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7. Teach a New Trick

Rainy days are the perfect time to teach something new like:

• Spin

• Shake

• Play dead

• Back up

• Speak / quiet

Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes) and fun. End on a win!

Why it works: New tricks challenge the brain and strengthen your training bond.

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Bonus Tip: Short Sessions of Training Games Add Up!

You don’t need to spend an hour training. Just a few 5-minute sessions throughout the day can mentally tire out your dog more than you’d think.

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Final Thoughts

When the weather’s rough, don’t stress about skipping a walk. Use it as an opportunity to train, bond, and challenge your dog’s mind indoors. The result? A calmer, more fulfilled dog—even if the sun never comes out.

Remember: A tired brain is a happy brain.

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Need help building a rainy day routine for your dog? Contact us for a custom training plan or ask about our indoor enrichment classes! 🐾