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.

The Fourth of July is meant to be a celebration of freedom, family, and fun. But for many dogs, it’s a night filled with panic. Fireworks, unfamiliar guests, and a change in routine can all trigger serious anxiety. Fortunately, with a bit of preparation and training, you can help your dog stay calm and safe during the festivities.

This post covers everything from early prep to in-the-moment management, so your pup can make it through the holiday with confidence (and fewer trembling paws).

Why Dogs Fear Fireworks

Dogs experience the world through their senses, especially sound and smell. Fireworks create:

Loud, unpredictable noises
Vibrations that shake the ground
Bright flashing lights in the sky
A scent of gunpowder and smoke

These unfamiliar triggers often lead to a fight-or-flight response. You might notice:

Pacing or trembling
Barking or whining
Hiding or trying to escape
Destructive behavior or house accidents

Pre-Holiday Prep: Set the Stage for Success

Before the fireworks start popping, it’s essential to prepare your home and your dog.

Create a cozy, quiet retreat

Use a crate or covered area in an interior room
Add their favorite blankets and toys
Try calming music or a white noise machine

Exercise early in the day

A tired dog is a calmer dog
Focus on structured walks or short training games

Use tools and resources

Consider calming aids like Thundershirts or natural supplements
Talk to your vet about temporary anti-anxiety medication if needed
The AKC’s guide to firework desensitization offers excellent tips for managing noise phobia

Reinforce key commands

Commands like “Place” and “Down” help redirect anxious energy
Having solid obedience in place makes a huge difference during chaotic events

This is especially important for dogs who are easily startled or prone to running off. Teaching impulse control skills, like those covered in our post on how to prevent your dog from darting out the door, can help during high-stress moments like fireworks night.

And if your dog needs more consistent structure to cope with stressful events, our Basic Obedience training program is designed to build focus, confidence, and calmness in any situation.

During the Fireworks: Keep Calm and Carry On

As the celebration begins, be your dog’s calm, confident leader. Here’s how:

Keep your dog inside

Even well-trained dogs may bolt when startled
Ensure all doors, windows, and gates are secure

Distract and redirect

Offer puzzle toys or long-lasting chews
Run through basic obedience cues for mental focus

Avoid over-comforting

Stay calm yourself, dogs pick up on your energy
Reward calm behavior, but avoid reinforcing panic

Use a leash and updated ID

Keep a leash on when guests are coming and going
Make sure tags and microchips have current info

Training Tips That Reduce Noise Sensitivity Long-Term

Firework fear doesn’t have to be a permanent problem. You can work on building your dog’s resilience with:

Sound desensitization

Play firework sounds at low volume during meals or training
Slowly increase the volume as your dog becomes more comfortable

Impulse control drills

Practice extended “Place” or “Down” stays with rewards for calmness
Teach your dog to pause and check in before reacting to noise

Reinforce calm choices

Catch your dog doing something calm, and reward it
Offer treats when they settle quietly, even if it’s just for a minute

These techniques are a great complement to obedience training and are often part of our core curriculum.

Final Tips to Help Your Dog Through the Fourth

Start preparing several days in advance
Keep routines as close to normal as possible
Don’t take your dog to firework shows
Use high-value treats to reinforce confident behavior
If your dog gets loose, contact shelters and post locally ASAP

A little planning now goes a long way in making sure your dog feels safe and supported once the fireworks begin.

Need Help with Your Dog’s Anxiety or Reactivity?

Many firework fears are part of a broader challenge with confidence, focus, or obedience. If you’re ready to help your dog build calm behavior that lasts long after July 4th, our professional trainers are here for you.

Keeping Your Dog Active When It’s Too Hot Outside