When summer temperatures soar, long walks and outdoor play aren’t always safe, especially for dogs with thick coats, short snouts, or low heat tolerance. But just because it’s hot outside doesn’t mean your dog has to skip activity altogether.

This guide covers fun, enriching ways to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated indoors so they stay healthy, happy, and far from bored during those scorching summer days.

Why Dogs Still Need Activity in the Heat

Even if outdoor adventures are off-limits due to the heat, your dog still needs:

Physical exercise to prevent restlessness
Mental stimulation to stay sharp
Opportunities for engagement and bonding
A consistent routine that supports calm behavior

Skipping activity completely can lead to behavioral issues like chewing, barking, or general mischief. That’s why it’s important to switch things up with indoor-friendly alternatives.

Mental Enrichment: The Secret Weapon

Dogs don’t just need physical outlets. They also thrive on brain games and problem-solving activities.

Try these at-home enrichment ideas:

Puzzle feeders and snuffle mats

Encourage natural foraging behavior
Slow down eating while keeping your dog focused
The ASPCA’s DIY enrichment guide includes creative ways to turn everyday items into brain-boosting toys

Hide-and-seek with treats or toys

Let your dog use their nose to locate hidden goodies
Start easy and increase difficulty as they learn

Teach a new trick every few days

Try “spin,” “wave,” or even “clean up your toys”
Use positive reinforcement to build engagement

Rotate your toy selection

Keep things fresh by putting toys on a rotation
Introduce “novel” toys that only come out on hot days

Tip: If your dog has trouble settling even after mental stimulation, they may benefit from more structured boundaries. Our Basic Obedience program teaches dogs how to focus indoors and out, even when the weather limits your options.

Indoor Games That Burn Energy

Need to get the zoomies out without a backyard? These indoor activities work great in smaller spaces:

Tug-of-war

A controlled energy outlet that also reinforces rules like “drop it”

Hallway fetch or “bounce and catch”

Use soft toys or tennis balls to avoid damage
Keep sessions short and fun

Obstacle courses

Use chairs, broomsticks, and pillows to create tunnels or jumps
Great for kids and dogs to build together

Interactive chew sessions

Stuffed Kongs, frozen marrow bones, or bully sticks provide focused downtime

Try Training Indoors with a Summer Twist

Training doesn’t have to pause in the heat. In fact, it’s the perfect time to work on:

Place command with longer durations
Loose leash walking using indoor setups
Recall practice between rooms
Impulse control using doors, toys, or food bowls

When dogs learn to focus in an environment full of distractions, like indoors with people moving around, they’re better prepared for real-world challenges. That’s exactly what we teach in our obedience programs and also why this blog on positive reinforcement is such a helpful mindset for summertime success.

Cooling Options During Short Outdoor Bursts

If it’s safe to be outside for brief periods (early mornings or late evenings), consider:

Sprinkler play or splash pads
Frozen treat scavenger hunts in shaded areas
Cooling vests or bandanas to help regulate temperature
Short shaded walks on grass, not pavement

Avoid any outdoor activity during peak heat (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and always check the sidewalk temperature with your hand before walking your dog.

Watch for These Signs of Overheating

Even indoors, hot weather can take a toll on your dog’s comfort. Keep an eye out for:

Excessive panting
Drooling or glassy eyes
Sluggishness or uncoordinated movement
Seeking cool surfaces to lie on

If you notice any of these signs, pause activities, move your dog to a cool place, and offer water immediately.

Need Help Creating a Custom Training Routine?

Every dog has unique energy needs, and it can be tricky to manage those when the weather limits your options. Our trainers specialize in indoor obedience, enrichment strategies, and confidence-building techniques that work all year long, including in the heat of summer.

Contact us today to set up a personalized training plan that keeps your dog active, focused, and out of trouble no matter the temperature.