Small dogs may not take up much space, but they have big personalities and often endless energy. While outdoor play is great, there are times when weather, space, or your schedule make it hard to take your furry friend outside. That’s where indoor games come in! Whether it’s the middle of winter, pouring rain, or simply a quiet day at home, you can still keep your small dog happy, stimulated, and well-exercised without leaving your living room.
In this article, we’ll explore fun, safe, and creative indoor games for small dogs that will keep their bodies active and their minds sharp. From simple fetch variations to puzzle games and DIY challenges, these activities are sure to strengthen your bond while giving your pup a healthy dose of exercise.
1. The Classic Indoor Fetch
Fetch isn’t just for the park — with a few adjustments, it’s perfect for indoors too. Use a soft toy or a lightweight ball that won’t damage furniture or walls. Choose a hallway or a safe space free from fragile items, and toss the toy short distances.
- Use plush toys for safety.
- Keep throws low to prevent jumping injuries.
- Reward your dog when they return the toy.
This game is especially great for energetic small breeds like Jack Russells or Miniature Poodles, who love to run and retrieve.
2. Hide and Seek
One of the simplest yet most mentally stimulating games is hide and seek. You can hide yourself or your dog’s favorite toy and encourage them to find it.
- Tell your dog to “stay.”
- Hide behind a door, under a blanket, or in another room.
- Call their name and praise them when they find you.
This activity stimulates your dog’s problem-solving skills and strengthens your recall training.
3. Tug-of-War
Tug-of-war is an excellent way to burn energy indoors. Use a durable rope toy or tug toy designed for small breeds. The key is to let your dog win occasionally to keep the game fun and boost their confidence.
Pro Tip: Teach the “drop it” command to keep the game under control.
4. Treat Treasure Hunt
Turn snack time into a hunting adventure. Hide small treats around your home and encourage your pup to sniff them out. This engages their natural foraging instincts while keeping them moving.
To make it more challenging:
- Hide treats in harder-to-reach places (but always safe for dogs).
- Use puzzle toys or snuffle mats for a mental workout.
5. Indoor Agility Course
Create a mini agility course with household items:
- Chairs for weaving.
- Cushions to jump over.
- Blankets over chairs to crawl under.
Guide your dog through the course with treats and praise. This type of activity is fantastic for small, agile breeds like Papillons, Dachshunds, or Corgis.
6. The Shell Game
This brain-teasing game is perfect for keeping your small dog mentally active.
- Place three cups upside down.
- Hide a treat under one cup.
- Shuffle them around and let your dog choose.
This improves problem-solving skills and scent detection while being a fun bonding activity.
7. Obedience Training Games
Turn training into a game by incorporating commands into play. For example:
- “Sit” before a toy is thrown.
- “Stay” before releasing a treat.
- “Spin” or “High Five” for fun tricks.
This keeps your dog’s mind sharp and helps reinforce good behavior in a playful way.
8. Stair Climb Fetch
If you have stairs, use them for a short indoor workout. Stand at the top and throw a toy to the bottom for your dog to retrieve. Make sure your pup is physically able to handle stairs, and avoid this game for dogs with joint problems.
9. Interactive Toys
There are plenty of interactive toys designed for small dogs that can keep them entertained for hours. Look for treat-dispensing balls, puzzle feeders, and squeaky toys that encourage problem-solving.
One great option is to rotate toys weekly to keep your dog interested and engaged.
10. Dance Party
Yes, you can have a dance party with your dog! Put on some music and encourage your pup to jump, spin, or follow your moves. This is especially fun for small, active breeds like Chihuahuas and Maltese that enjoy movement and interaction.
11. Scent Training Challenges
Small dogs often have incredible noses. You can challenge them by hiding a special scent (like a treat or a favorite toy) in a safe container and encouraging them to find it. Start easy, then increase the difficulty.
Why Indoor Games Are Important for Small Dogs
Small dogs may not need as much exercise as large breeds, but they still require daily physical and mental stimulation to stay healthy. Without enough activity, they can develop behavioral problems like barking, chewing, or restlessness.
Regular indoor play:
- Burns off excess energy.
- Prevents obesity.
- Strengthens your bond with your dog.
- Improves obedience and focus.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s cold outside, pouring rain, or you simply want to stay indoors, these indoor games for small dogs will keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and engaged all year round. You don’t need fancy equipment or a huge space — just creativity, patience, and a little time each day.
For more tips on caring for your small dog, check out these articles: