Back to Home Two dogs looking out a window during winter, waiting to go outside, illustrating indoor boredom and reduced activity in cold weather.

The 2-Minute Guide to Beating Winter Boredom in Dogs

Published by Rachel Beland

January 29, 2026

4 min read

We’ve all been there: the sun has already set, the wind chill is biting, and your pup is staring at you with that “is it time for a walk yet?” look.

As winter stretches on, routines quietly shrink, and when life gets busy and daylight disappears, it’s easy to feel like those missed moments start adding up.

In just a couple of minutes, you’ll see how a few small, indoor shifts can support your dog’s comfort and engagement right now — without long walks, extra gear, or added pressure.

The Science of the Winter Dog Boredom

When physical activity decreases, a dog’s mental and physical energy has nowhere to go. This often manifests as "zoomies," or destructive chewing.[1]

Indoor wellness is about more than just keeping them busy; it’s about supporting their emotional balance and mobility.

Research suggests that certain enrichment activities may help promote relaxation and mental engagement, helping support mental sharpness and overall balance—all from the comfort of your living room.[2]

Infographic showing four indoor enrichment activities for dogs in winter, including scent search, muffin tin treat game, slow-motion fetch, and calm chewing time.

4 Easy Indoor Ways to Play Today

You don't need a house full of gadgets—just a few minutes of your time and a little bit of focus is usually exactly what they’re looking for.

Scent Games & Nose Work: Tapping into your dog’s natural tracking instinct can be just as mentally tiring as a fast sprint. Encouraging them to use their nose to "find" hidden rewards provides deep mental stimulation that satisfies their natural instincts in a safe, indoor environment.
Low-Impact Movement: Winter can make joint stiffness feel more noticeable, especially for senior pups.[3] Using a hallway for slow-motion fetch or practicing basic cues like "sit-to-stand" helps keep joints fluid and muscles engaged without the high-impact strain—especially in icy outdoor conditions.[4]
Food-Based Puzzles: Turning mealtime into a problem-solving session mimics natural hunting behaviors. Utilizing simple household items, like rolled-up towels with treats tucked inside, provides a rewarding challenge that keeps them occupied while you're busy.
Rest & Regulation: Enrichment also includes “calm time” to help your dog decompress. Offering a quiet space and an appropriate chew activity can support relaxation and help your dog settle after more active play.

Helping Them Feel Their Best From Within

We're big believers that how a dog feels on the inside is the secret to how they act on the outside. That’s why pairing daily enrichment with science-backed supplements is a helpful way to support your dog’s overall wellness routine.

Paw Parent Favorites:

Joint Support Soft Chews: Helps maintain joint flexibility and comfort when the cold weather makes movement feel a bit more like a chore.*
Calming Support Soft Chews: A gentle option to support calm behavior during periods of restlessness from being cooped up indoors.*
Daily Multivitamin: Contributes to daily nutrient intake that supports overall wellness through the winter months.*

Small Shifts, Big Winter Breakthroughs

Winter doesn't have to be a season of "waiting for spring." By incorporating five to ten minutes of structured indoor play or scent work, you’re providing the level of care that keeps your dog's tail wagging and their spirit bright!

Take 10% OFF your first PupGrade order with code BLOG10 at checkout.

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This information is intended for general purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet or health routine, especially if you notice persistent or concerning changes in your dog's movement or behavior.

**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

Resources:

McGreevy, P. (1998). Clinical behavioral medicine for small animals. Australian Veterinary Journal, 76(9), 634–634. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-0813.1998.tb10249.x
Environmental Enrichment for Captive Animals. Can Vet J. 2006 Oct;47(10):992. PMCID: PMC1571128.
Stephens NL, Cardinal R, Simmons B. Mechanical properties of tracheal smooth muscle: effects of temperature. Am J Physiol. 1977 Sep;233(3):C92-98. doi: 10.1152/ajpcell.1977.233.3.C92. PMID: 910897.
Bricca, A., Juhl, C. B., Grodzinsky, A. J., & Roos, E. M. (2017a). Impact of a daily exercise dose on knee joint cartilage – A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials in Healthy Animals. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 25(8), 1223–1237. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joca.2017.03.009