🌧️ Rainy Day Dog Activities: Keep Your Pup Happy and Enriched Indoors

Lauren Mills
Aug 21, 2025
3 min read

With up to 110mm of rain expected in the Sydney area over the next few days, it’s the perfect time to get creative indoors with your Lappie! While Lappies have no qualms hanging outside in the rain thanks to their arctic origins and protective coat, you may not want a wet doggo in your house.

*Kaia (Orical Pandora). Photo by Thanh-Tuyen Nguyen*

While soggy parks and muddy backyards might be off the table, your Lappie doesn’t have to miss out on fun, stimulation, or quality time with you.

Here’s a guide to rainy day activities that will keep your dog’s body moving and brain buzzing, without stepping a paw outside.

🧠 Mental Enrichment Games

1. Snuffle Mats & Puzzle Feeders

Perfect for wet weather! Scatter some kibble or treats into a snuffle mat or puzzle feeder and let your dog use their nose and brain to hunt it all down. It taps into natural foraging instincts and turns mealtime into enrichment time.

2. Muffin Tin Treasure Hunt

Pop some treats into a muffin tray and cover each hole with a tennis ball. It’s a simple but satisfying puzzle that encourages problem-solving and focus.

3. Towel Roll Up Game

Roll some treats into a towel, twisting it as you go. Your dog will love sniffing, unrolling, and snacking their way through the puzzle.

🎓 Indoor Training & Trick Time

*James and Nova, trick training at home*

4. Obedience & Trick Refresh

Rainy days are ideal for brushing up on basic obedience or introducing a new trick. From “shake” and “spin” to “tidy up your toys,” training boosts your dog’s confidence and mental wellbeing. Have you tried clicker training? It's a fast way to trick train your Lappie. Check out the 'Do More with your Dog' website to be part of a fun tricks program.

5. Nose Work Games

Hide a treat or toy in another room and encourage your dog to “go find it!” Scent work tires dogs out in the best way and is a brilliant indoor game for stormy days.

🐾 Indoor Physical Exercise

6. DIY Agility Course

Set up cushions, broomsticks, tunnels, and cones using household items. Guide your dog through with treats or toys, it’s fun, enriching, and surprisingly tiring!

7. Tug-of-War

Burn off some energy with a high energy game of tug. Include commands like “drop it” and “wait” to reinforce manners while playing.

8. Stair Fetch (If Safe)

Toss a soft toy up the stairs and let your dog retrieve it, if your stairs are non-slip and your dog is physically able. It’s a quick way to wear them out indoors. Only advisable for dogs over the age of 18 months.

🛁 Calm & Comforting Options

9. Lick Mats & Frozen Kongs

Spread some peanut butter, yoghurt, or wet food on a lick mat, or stuff a Kong and freeze it. These slow-feeding tools help dogs self-soothe and stay occupied.

10. Indoor Spa Time

Brushing, gentle massage, or a calming grooming session can be a lovely way to connect, especially if your dog feels uneasy during heavy rain or storms.

💡 Final Tips for Wet-Weather Dog Days

Rotate toys to keep things fresh
Feed meals using enrichment tools
Use rainy days to bond and build skills
Keep sessions short and upbeat, especially for puppies

Don’t let the Sydney rain dampen your dog’s day. With up to 110mm of rain on the way, now’s the time to turn your living room into an enrichment zone. A little creativity can go a long way in keeping your best friend stimulated, happy, and close by your side.