Rainy days in Richmond, VA can quickly throw a wrench in your plans—especially if you’re a dog owner. Whether you’ve got a high-energy pup or a chill senior dog, being stuck indoors all day isn’t fun for either of you. But keeping your dog entertained and mentally stimulated while the rain pours doesn’t have to be a struggle.
At DoodyCalls of Richmond, we know just how important it is to help your dog burn off energy, even when the weather isn’t cooperating. Here are some realistic, low-stress, and affordable ways Richmond pet owners can keep their dogs busy indoors on rainy days.
1. Use interactive toys and food puzzles
When the walks are short and the dog park’s a no-go, mental exercise becomes even more important. Try interactive toys like a treat-dispensing ball, a snuffle mat, or a puzzle feeder. These toys tap into your dog’s natural foraging instincts and can keep them occupied for extended periods.
Pro tip: Rotate the toys every few days to keep things fresh. Even something as simple as freezing peanut butter or yogurt inside a Kong can turn a boring afternoon into an hour of tail-wagging fun.
2. Teach your dog a new trick (or brush up on old ones)
Training isn’t just about obedience—it’s also a great way to stimulate your dog’s mind and strengthen your bond. On rainy days in Richmond, set aside 10–15 minutes for a mini training session. Work on basic commands like sit, stay, and come, or challenge your pup with something new like “roll over,” “play dead,” or even ringing a bell to go outside.
Not only will your dog feel accomplished (yes, they love that feeling too!), but you’ll also enjoy a more well-behaved pup when the rain clears.
3. Create an indoor obstacle course
Just because you’re stuck inside doesn’t mean your dog has to miss out on physical activity. Grab a few chairs, cushions, boxes, or even a broomstick between two stools, and you’ve got yourself a DIY agility course. Use treats to guide your dog through the obstacles, or play “follow the leader” to get them moving.
If you’re in an apartment or smaller home in Richmond, VA, don’t worry—you can scale it down to fit your space.
4. Set up a scavenger hunt
Dogs love using their noses, and a simple scent game can work wonders to combat boredom. Hide small treats around your house and let your dog sniff them out. Start easy—placing treats in visible spots—and slowly make the game harder as your dog gets the hang of it.
This is a great indoor game that requires zero fancy equipment and can be done in just about any Richmond household.
5. Try some relaxing enrichment activities
If your dog isn’t the high-energy type (or is older, anxious, or recovering from surgery), don’t worry—there are plenty of low-impact enrichment ideas too. Lick mats, stuffed toys, and gentle massage time can help your dog relax while still keeping them mentally engaged.
Many Richmond dog owners find that calming enrichment is especially helpful during thunderstorms, which often roll in during the spring and summer months.
6. Schedule a doggie playdate—indoors
If your dog is social and gets along well with others, consider inviting over a friend’s dog for an indoor playdate. Move furniture to the side, lay down some towels or mats for traction, and let them have some supervised fun.
This can be a great energy outlet, especially for younger dogs who thrive on interaction. Just be sure to monitor closely and set some ground rules to keep things safe and stress-free.
7. Don’t forget potty breaks—rain or shine
Even if your dog is staying entertained indoors, bathroom breaks are still essential. Invest in a good raincoat or towel system to make those quick outdoor trips a little more bearable. You might also consider setting up a covered potty area if your yard tends to get muddy.
At DoodyCalls of Richmond, we’re here to help with all your pet waste removal needs—especially on those days when it’s the last thing you want to deal with. Rain or shine, we’ll make sure your yard stays clean and your dog stays happy.
Final thoughts: Rainy days don’t have to be boring for your Richmond dog
A little creativity goes a long way when it comes to keeping your dog happy on a rainy day in Richmond, VA. From interactive games and training to simple sniff-and-find activities, you have plenty of ways to keep your pup mentally and physically engaged—even when you’re stuck inside.
Need help staying on top of the not-so-fun parts of pet ownership? DoodyCalls of Richmond offers reliable, affordable pet waste removal services that let you focus on the fun parts of dog parenting. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support you, rain or shine.