Too Hot to Play? Try These Indoor Activities

Is it raining buckets? Hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk? Or just one of those sticky, stormy summer days when neither you nor your pup wants to step outside?

We get it. When the weather turns miserable, whether it’s heavy rain, intense heat, or suffocating humidity, those daily walks and backyard play sessions might take a hit. Unfortunately, your dog’s energy (and need for stimulation) doesn’t exactly take a day off.

Without proper physical and mental activity, dogs can get bored fast, and a bored dog often becomes a destructive one.

So, what’s a pet parent to do?

Here are a few fun, energy-burning, brain-boosting activities to keep your dog busy indoors when the weather outside is frightful… or just gross.

Grooming

When it’s too hot or rainy to play outside, a spa day is a great way to bond. Brushing, bathing, or even just wiping down your dog with a cool, damp cloth can provide a relaxing form of stimulation. It also helps keep their coat clean during muddy-paw season.

Tip: If your dog fights bath time, try a short play session first to burn off extra energy. A tired dog = a more cooperative bath buddy.

Treadmill

A treadmill can be a game-changer during rainy or brutally hot days. With a little training, your dog can safely walk indoors and burn off that pent-up energy.

Start slow, use treats for encouragement, and make it fun—not scary. While it’s not a full substitute for walks in nature, it’s a safe and controlled way to keep your dog moving when the elements don’t cooperate.

Stairs

No treadmill? No problem.

If you have stairs, you’ve got a built-in cardio machine for your pup. Running up and down stairs is a great energy-burner, especially for younger, athletic dogs.

Get your dog moving by standing at one end while a family member calls them from the other. Not only will they get their steps in—it can also be a great bonding game.

Pro tip: Join them and get your own rainy day workout in!

Practice Tricks and Commands

Training sessions aren’t just for obedience—they’re excellent brain workouts. Whether you’re reinforcing basic commands or teaching fun new tricks like “roll over” or “spin,” your dog gets mental stimulation and one-on-one time with you.

Short 10–15 minute sessions throughout the day can help keep them mentally sharp and emotionally satisfied.

Bonus: Mental work can be just as tiring as physical play—perfect for stormy afternoons indoors.

Dog Yoga

Yes, doga is a thing—and it’s more fun than it sounds.

Dog yoga combines light stretching, massage, and calming techniques to help dogs relax and focus. It’s a great way to help your dog stay calm during thunderstorms or get in some light movement when walks are off the table.

There are even virtual classes and YouTube tutorials to get you started!

Make Indoor Days Count!

When summer storms roll in or temps get too high for safe walks, it’s all about adapting. Keep your dog occupied with quick, creative indoor activities that balance both body and mind.

Whether it’s a short stair sprint, a mentally engaging training session, or a bath that turns into a bonding moment, these small efforts go a long way in preventing restlessness—and protecting your furniture.