Fun and Engaging Activities To Do With Your Dog at Home

Creative, cozy, and totally dog-approved ways to make everyday life more fun!

Some days, getting out of the house feels like a heroic effort. Especially when your dog is giving you “don’t leave me” eyes. The good news? You don’t need a park, a long hike, or a fancy pup event to create fun, meaningful moments with your dog.

Whether it’s raining, too hot out, or you’re just in the mood to hang out and be cozy, here are some simple, creative, and genuinely fun activities for you and your pup to do together right at home.

1. Doggy Canvas Painting (Yes, it’s a thing!)

All you need is a blank canvas, a one-gallon freezer bag, some acrylic paints, and a spoonful of dog safe peanut butter (no xylitol!). Spread peanut butter thinly and evenly on the outside of the freezer bag. Choose your paint colors and place dollops of paint on the canvas – be sure to strategically space the paint for optimal color and blending. Place the canvas in the freezer bag and make sure it is sealed tightly. Once the bag is closed and secure, place it on the floor and watch your dog create a masterpiece while he/she enjoys some delicious peanut butter.

The end result? A surprisingly chic piece of art that looks like abstract modern décor (and makes your heart melt a little every time you see it).

2. Hide and Seek

This is hands (paws?)-down one of the easiest ways to get your dog moving and thinking. Tell your pup to “stay”, then go and hide somewhere. Once you’re hidden, call your dog and wait for the moment they find you with absolute joy and triumph. Reward their superior seek skills with a treat

It’s exercise. It’s bonding. It’s hilarious. And it never gets old!

3. Treat Scavenger Hunt

This one taps right into your dog’s natural instincts; sniffing, searching, problem-solving, and celebrating afterwards. Take a few small treats and hide them around one room, or your entire home for an extra challenge and depending on your dog’s skill level. Hide treats under pillows, behind table legs, inside open boxes, anywhere that your dog can safely reach.

4. Dance Party!

Put on your favorite playlist and have a goofy dance party with your pup. Most dogs love the energy shift and they will wag, bounce, spin, and look at you like you’re the most entertaining thing in the world.

It’s silly, it’s fun, and it’s sure to tire you and your pup out!

Final Thoughts:

Spending meaningful time with your dog doesn’t have to be complicated, perfect, or Instagram-ready. Dogs don’t need elaborate outings. They just want you, your attention, and a little fun mixed into the day. These at-home activities help you bond, burn energy, and create smally, cozy moments with your best friend.

It's mentally stimulating, fun to watch, and perfect for days when you want to keep your dog engaged without going outside.

(here is Winston's first painting masterpiece!)