Summer is here! With warm weather approaching, while many dogs love to frolic outside in the sunshine, sometimes the weather is too hot for outdoor play.

If you own a small dog breed, they may be particularly sensitive to extreme weather conditions. But don't worry; there are plenty of fun indoor, enriching, and physical activities that you and your tiny tot can enjoy together!

1. Teach your dog a new trick!

Training your dog to learn a new trick is a great way to stimulate their mind while creating a special bond! Start with a simple trick like "sit" or "shake" and gradually progress to more complex tricks like "roll over" or "play dead." Use treats or their favorite toy as a reward for good behavior!  If you'd like guidance or are new to dog training, our Online Classroom allows you to learn and train from the comfort of your home.

2. Indoor fetch!

Playing fetch is a classic game for dogs, but it doesn't always have to be played outdoors! Choose a room with plenty of space and use a soft toy that won't damage anything in the room. Encourage your dog to fetch the toy and bring it back to you. Reward them with a treat or praise when they successfully complete the task.  If your dog does not already know the "fetch" behavior, start adding the cue to turn a fun game into a training session!

3. Treat hunt!

Hide treats around the house and encourage your dog to sniff them out. This is a great way to stimulate your dog's senses and keep them entertained. Start with easy hiding spots and gradually increase the difficulty as your dog gets better at finding the treats!  If your dog is a sniffing superstar, we'd recommend our online K9 Nose Work Course.  This activity is excellent for small dogs!

4. Mini indoor agility course!

Set up an indoor agility course using household items like chairs, boxes, and cushions. Use treats to encourage your dog to jump safely over obstacles, crawl through tunnels, and weave between objects. This is a fun way to get your dog moving and improve their body awareness!  Of course, always be sure that you are doing this in a safe environment, clear of any objects that could cause injury.

5. Hide and seek!

Play hide and seek with your dog by hiding behind furniture or in a closet and calling out their name! When they find you, reward them with a treat or praise. This is a great game for teaching your dog to come when called and improve their recall while having fun!

6. Puzzle toys!

Puzzle toys are a great way to challenge your dog's mind and keep them entertained. Fill a puzzle toy with treats or kibble, and let your dog figure out how to get the treats out. There are many different types of puzzle toys available, so choose one that suits your dog's size and skill level.

7. Spa day!

Treat your tiny pup to a spa day by giving them a relaxing bath, brushing their coat, and trimming their nails. This is a great way to bond with your dog and keep them looking and feeling their best.  If your dog likes the water, having a short play session with the hose or a small kiddie pool outside is always fun!  Just be sure to limit their time in the sun.

8. Of course, there is always dog daycare!

For times when you want your littles to get out that extra burst of energy on a hot day, taking your dog to daycare is an excellent option. Our daycare is always air-conditioned, so they stay nice and cool.  Along with the social aspect of daycare, they also get to participate in various activities during their day, like Yappy Hour and Quick Train!  And one of the best benefits is they are nice and tired when they come home, so you can both relax and cuddle together on the couch!

There are plenty of fun indoor activities that you and your small dog can enjoy together this summer.

Whether it's teaching them a new trick, playing indoor fetch, or setting up an agility course, these activities will keep your dog entertained and help you bond with them. Just be sure to use positive reinforcement techniques and always keep safety in mind.