If you live anywhere in New Zealand, you already know the drill—one minute it’s fine, the next it’s sideways rain and you’re questioning all your life choices… including getting a high-energy dog! And while we might be used to it, our dogs don’t always get the memo.
In our house, Flo will charge straight out like it’s the best day ever—mud, puddles, the whole lot. Vinca steps outside, feels one raindrop, and looks at me like absolutely not.
Either way, when long walks aren’t on the cards, you still need a way to burn energy and keep your dog mentally switched on – otherwise things get destructive pretty quickly.
So here are some ideas – without losing your mind in the process.
Mental Stimulation (Your Secret Weapon)
A mentally tired dog is often better than a physically exhausted one.
Especially with bull breeds—smart, observant, and very capable of creating their own “fun” if you don’t provide it. Try:
- Puzzle toys (or DIY ones with towels + treats)
- Snuffle mats
- Frozen lick mats
- Scatter feeding (literally throw their food across the lawn/house safely)
Let them work for their food instead of just inhaling it from a bowl. It slows them down, engages their brain, and takes the edge off that pent-up energy.
Quick Training Sessions (Keep It Light)
Rainy days are actually perfect for a bit of training—but keep it relaxed. No long, serious sessions. No pressure.
Aim for:
- 5–10 minutes
- A few treats
- A bit of fun
You can practice things like:
- Recall (even just calling them between rooms)
- Sit, down, place
- Settling calmly on a bed
It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just builds that connection – and that’s what matters.
“Find It” Games (They LOVE This)
This one’s always a hit here.
Start simple – pop your dog in a sit (or have someone hold them), hide a few treats around the room, then release them with “find it.” That’s it.
You’ll be surprised how into it they get. As they get better, make it harder—different rooms, higher spots, under objects.
It taps into their natural instincts, and by the end of it, they’re usually way more settled—like they’ve actually done something, not just burned energy.
Controlled Indoor Play
You can absolutely play inside—just keep it a little bit structured.
Think games like:
- Tug (with rules, not a free-for-all)
- Gentle fetch down a hallway
- Short bursts of play with breaks
We’ve learned with the girls, if you let it turn into full chaos… it gets out of hand fast. So keep it fun, but keep it calm-ish.
Teaching Them to Just… Chill
Rainy days are a great opportunity to teach your dog how to do nothing. Sounds simple. It’s not.
- Give them a defined space (bed/mat)
- Reward calm behaviour
- Don’t constantly entertain them
Dogs don’t need to be “on” all the time.
With the girls, this is something I value a lot – being able to switch off is just as important as being active and means I have a chance to catch up on work while they chill.
Or… Just Embrace It
Let’s be real—sometimes the easiest solution is just getting out there. Not every day has to be perfect.
Throw on a jacket, accept you’ll both get a bit muddy, and let them have a fun.
- Short walks
- A quick run around the yard
- Let them get muddy (you can clean them later)
A lot of dogs actually love it once they’re out. And if they don’t? You’ll know pretty quickly.
Rainy days don’t have to mean frustrated dogs and destroyed furniture.
With a bit of structure, some creativity, and realistic expectations—you can turn a washed-out day into something productive. Your dog doesn’t need perfect weather to have fun. They need engagement, consistency, and a bit of guidance.
Everything else is just mud on top!