Rainy Day Adventures: Indoor Activities for St. Louis DOGS

Maris Miller
Apr 21
4 min read

April showers might bring May flowers, but they can also bring some seriously stir-crazy pups! As your trusted St. Louis pet care experts, we know how challenging it can be to keep your furry friend entertained when the weather isn't cooperating. Don't let the rain dampen your spirits – here are some pawsome indoor activities to keep your dog happy and engaged!

Indoor Enrichment Games

• Hide and Seek: This classic game isn't just for kids! Hide treats or toys around the house and let your pup channel their inner detective.

• Puzzle Toys: Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise.

• Indoor Fetch: Clear a hallway for a modified game of fetch.

• Staircase Exercise: If you have stairs, supervised up-and-down games can burn energy.

Adventure Walks to Bar K

Rainy days don't have to mean cooped-up days! For busy pet parents, our Adventure Walk service can be a game-changer. If your pup has a membership at Bar K and you want them to run off some energy in their indoor dog park area, our professional dog walkers can include a trip to this dog-friendly haven during their adventure walk. It's an excellent solution for working pet parents who want their pooch pleasantly pooped by the end of the day!

Visit Local Indoor Pet-Friendly Spots

• Zoomies Pet Cafe in the Hampton area of St Louis has tons of awesome items on their menu for dogs & humans to enjoy in their beautiful indoor seating area!

• Treats Unleashed has many locations in the St Louis area (including Kirkwood, Central West End, and Creve Coeur) and is a great place to socialize your pups while also letting them engage in a sniffari! Let your pup pick out a new toy or chew to munch on for extra mental stimulation once you get home, too.

• Lucky Dog Central in Wildwood offers a great backyard area for playtime in between spring showers, as well as a fenced in indoor area for pets to play! They also have a great selection of sandwiches, coffee, wine & beer (to suit whatever you fancy!)

DIY Training Sessions

Rainy days are an excellent opportunity to focus on enhancing your dog's skills and building your bond. Here are some training activities to try:

Basic Obedience Refresh: Reinforce essential commands such as sit, stay, and come. It’s a great way to remind your pup of their manners and improve communication.
Advanced Trick Training: Teach your pup fun tricks like high five, roll over, or even fetch you a drink! Break down each trick into small steps and reward progress with treats and praise.
"Place" Training: This exercise teaches your dog to settle in a specific spot, reinforcing calm behavior and impulse control. Use a comfy mat or blanket and reward your pup for staying put.
Nose Work Games: Stimulate your dog’s powerful sense of smell by hiding treats around the house for them to find. Start with easy spots and gradually increase the difficulty level to challenge them.

Spa Day Pampering

When the rain keeps you indoors, turn your home into a pet spa. Here are some grooming activities to indulge in:

Gentle Brushing Session: Use a brush or comb suitable for your dog’s coat type to remove loose fur and tangles. This not only makes them look fabulous but also helps reduce shedding around the house.
Nail Trimming: Keep your pup’s paws in top shape with a careful nail trim. Use pet nail clippers or a grinder and ensure you do this in a well-lit area to avoid the quick.
Bath Time Fun: If your dog enjoys water, a relaxing bath can be a great rainy day activity. Use dog-safe shampoo and warm water. Remember to dry them thoroughly afterwards to prevent any chills.
Massage Practice: Gently massage your pup’s muscles to help them relax. This is particularly beneficial for older dogs or those with joint issues, and it’s a wonderful way to bond and soothe your pet.

Safety Tips for Necessary Outdoor Breaks

Even on rainy days, your pup needs to head outside for the occasional potty break. Here are some tips to ensure these outdoor excursions are safe and comfortable:

Keep Walks Brief: When it's wet outside, try to keep your dog's outings short and sweet. This helps avoid getting drenched and reduces the chance of your pup catching a chill. Aim for quick potty breaks rather than longer walks.
Use Doggy Rain Gear: Equip your pup with rain gear to keep them dry and cozy. A well-fitted raincoat or waterproof vest can make a big difference. Look for options that come with reflective strips for visibility during gloomy weather.
Protect Those Paws: Rain can make surfaces slippery, and occasionally the ground may be cold. Consider using paw wax to provide a protective barrier, or use booties to keep their feet dry and reduce the risk of slipping.
Stay Visible: Cloudy days often mean reduced visibility for drivers. Use a leash with reflective materials or attach a light to your pup's collar to ensure that both you and your dog can be seen by others when out and about.
Avoid Flooded Areas: Pools of water or flooded paths can hide sharp objects or harmful contaminants. Steer clear of these spots to protect your dog's paws and health.
Dry Thoroughly After Walks: Even with rain gear, it’s essential to towel-dry your dog’s coat and paws after exposure to rain. Focus on their belly and paws, which tend to gather mud and water most.
Monitor for Thunder Anxiety: Some dogs are scared of thunder, leading to anxiety or even panic. Watch for signs like pacing, whining, or hiding. Create a safe, comforting space indoors for your pup to retreat to during storms, and consider using a calming jacket if needed.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your pup stays safe and healthy, even when Mother Nature is in a soggy mood. Whether it’s a quick jaunt outside or a brief potty break, being prepared makes all the difference for your furry friend’s well-being.

Need Help With Rainy Day Care?

At House of Paws Pet Care, we're equipped to handle St. Louis weather in all its moods! Our professional dog walkers can tailor our Adventure Walk services to your pup's needs, ensuring they get the physical and mental stimulation they crave—even if it's just a splash through the puddles!