12 Ways to Keep a Dog Busy in Apartment

Dogs can bring so much joy to apartment living, but keeping them entertained in a small space can be tricky.

Don’t worry though – there are plenty of ways to keep your furry friend happy and busy indoors.

With a little creativity, you can turn your apartment into a fun playground for your pup.

You can keep your dog busy and content in an apartment by using games, toys, and training. These activities will give your dog mental and physical exercise without needing a big yard.

We’ll explore some easy ideas to keep your dog occupied and prevent boredom-related behaviors. Get ready to have a happy, tired pup at the end of each day!

1. Interactive puzzle toys

Interactive puzzle toys are great for keeping your dog busy in an apartment. These toys challenge your pup’s mind and provide entertainment.

They come in different shapes and sizes, with various difficulty levels.

Many puzzle toys have compartments where you can hide treats. Your dog has to figure out how to get the treats by moving parts or solving the puzzle. This keeps them engaged and rewards their efforts.

Some popular options include treat-dispensing balls, sliding puzzles, and flip boards. You can start with simpler toys and work up to more complex ones as your dog gets better at solving them.

Using puzzle toys can help prevent boredom and reduce destructive behavior in your apartment. They’re a fun way to keep your dog’s mind sharp while providing a tasty reward.

2. Tug-of-war rope

Tug-of-war is a fun game you can play with your dog in your apartment. Get a sturdy rope toy made for dogs. Make sure it’s the right size for your pup.

Play short sessions of tug with your dog. It’s a great way to bond and give them exercise.

Teach your dog commands like “take it” and “drop it” during the game.

When you’re not playing, let your dog chew on the rope toy. This keeps them busy and helps clean their teeth. Just check the rope often and replace it if it starts to fray.

Also read: How to Keep Large Dogs Happy in an Apartment?

3. Hide and seek with treats

Hide and seek with treats is a fun game to keep your dog busy in your apartment. Start by asking your dog to stay in one room while you hide treats around your home.

Use easy spots at first, like under a rug or behind a chair leg. As your dog gets better at the game, make the hiding spots trickier.

When you’re ready, tell your dog to “find the treats!” and watch them use their nose to sniff out the goodies. This game gives your dog mental and physical exercise.

It’s also a great way to bond with your pup and make treat time more exciting. Remember to use small, healthy treats to avoid overfeeding your dog during playtime.

4. Doggy playdates

Doggy playdates can be a fun way to keep your apartment pup busy and social. Set up a meetup with a friend’s dog or join a local dog playgroup.

Choose a safe place like a fenced dog park or a pet-friendly apartment common area. Make sure your dog is comfortable around other dogs first.

Bring water, toys, and treats to make the playdate more enjoyable. Watch your dog closely to make sure they’re having a good time.

Keep playdates short at first, about 30 minutes. You can extend the time as your dog gets used to playing with others.

Regular playdates can help your dog burn energy and make new furry friends, even in an apartment setting.

5. Training sessions

Training sessions are great for keeping your dog busy in an apartment. You can teach your pup new tricks or practice old ones.

Start with simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.”

Keep sessions short, around 5-10 minutes. This helps your dog stay focused and engaged. Use treats and praise to reward good behavior.

Try training during everyday activities. Ask your dog to sit before meals or practice “stay” when you open the front door. This makes training a natural part of your routine.

Remember to be patient and consistent. With regular practice, your dog will learn quickly and enjoy the mental stimulation.

6. Fetch in the hallway

Playing fetch in your apartment hallway is a fun way to keep your dog active. Choose a soft ball or toy that won’t make noise or damage walls.

Toss the toy down the hall for your dog to retrieve. This gives them exercise and mental stimulation. Make sure to praise them when they bring it back.

Keep the game short to avoid disturbing neighbors. Use this time to practice commands like “sit” and “stay” between throws. Your dog will love the bonding time with you.

Remember to be mindful of others in the building. Stop the game if you hear someone coming.

7. Frozen Kong with peanut butter

KONG Easy Treat 14oz & Snack Combo, Peanut Butter - Large

Frozen Kongs with peanut butter are great for keeping your dog busy in an apartment. Start by spreading a thin layer of peanut butter inside the Kong toy. Make sure to use unsweetened peanut butter that’s safe for dogs.

You can mix in some kibble or small treats to make it more interesting.

Then pop the Kong in the freezer for a few hours. The frozen peanut butter will take your pup longer to lick out.

This chilly treat is perfect for hot days. It gives your dog a fun challenge and helps prevent boredom. Just remember to supervise your dog while they enjoy their frozen Kong.

8. DIY obstacle course

Create a fun indoor obstacle course for your dog using everyday items. Set up chairs, boxes, and cushions for your pup to weave through or jump over.

Use a hula hoop as a jump or crawl-through. Roll up a towel to make a small tunnel. Place treats along the course to encourage your dog to complete it.

Start simple and gradually add more challenges. Guide your dog through the course with treats or toys. This activity provides great mental and physical exercise for your furry friend.

Remember to keep safety in mind. Ensure all obstacles are stable and won’t hurt your dog. Supervise your pup as they navigate the course and have fun together!

9. Chew toys

Chew toys are great for keeping your dog busy in an apartment. They give your pup something to focus on and can help reduce stress.

Look for durable options like Kongs or Nylabones that can withstand heavy chewing. You can stuff Kongs with treats to make them even more engaging.

Rotate different chew toys to keep things interesting for your dog. This prevents boredom and extends the life of the toys.

Always supervise your dog with new chew toys. Remove any that become damaged to prevent choking hazards.

10. Doggy daycare

Doggy daycare can be a great option for keeping your apartment pup busy while you’re at work. These facilities offer a safe place for your dog to play and socialize with other dogs during the day.

Many daycares have indoor and outdoor areas for dogs to run around and burn off energy. They often provide toys, games, and activities to keep dogs mentally stimulated too.

Staff members supervise the dogs and can give your pup attention and playtime. This helps prevent boredom and loneliness when you can’t be home. Doggy daycare can tire out your dog, leading to a calmer evening at home in your apartment.

11. Pet-safe bubbles

Bubbles can be a fun indoor activity for your dog. You can make pet-safe bubbles at home with a few simple ingredients. Mix 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of gentle dish soap.

Blow bubbles for your dog to chase and pop. This gives them exercise and mental stimulation. It’s a great way to keep them busy in small spaces.

Make sure to use dog-safe soap. Avoid bubble solutions made for kids, as these can be harmful if swallowed. Always supervise your dog during bubble play.

12. Doggy treadmill

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A doggy treadmill can be a great way to keep your pup active in an apartment. It lets your dog exercise even when the weather is bad or you’re short on time.

Start slow and use treats to help your dog get comfortable on the treadmill. Gradually increase the speed and time as your pup gets used to it.

Always supervise your dog while they’re on the treadmill. Keep sessions short at first, around 5-10 minutes. You can slowly build up to longer workouts as your dog’s stamina improves.

A treadmill gives you control over your dog’s exercise. You can set the pace and duration to match your dog’s fitness level and needs.

Physical Exercise

Even in small spaces, you can keep your dog active.

Play fetch in a hallway or use stairs for exercise. Teach your pup to use a treadmill for indoor walks.

Short, frequent walks are better than one long outing.

Aim for 3-4 walks daily, mixing up routes to keep things interesting. Use a long leash in open areas for more freedom to run and explore.

Try indoor agility exercises with household items.

Set up jumps with cushions or teach your dog to weave between chair legs. Use toys on strings for “flirt pole” play sessions. This gives your pup a good workout in a small area.

Remember, a tired dog is a happy dog. Adjust activities based on your dog’s age, size, and energy level.