5 Easy Ways to Keep Your Dog Active at Home

April is Canine Fitness Month, the perfect time to get intentional about helping your dog stay healthy, happy, and moving. The best part? You don’t need fancy equipment or tons of space to get started. Here are five fun, low-stress ways to keep your pup active right at home.

1. Tug-of-War: This timeless game isn’t just fun—it’s a great workout for your dog’s muscles and joints. It builds strength, burns energy, and offers a mental challenge. Just be sure to use a soft toy and let them win sometimes to keep things fun!

2. Hide and Seek (With Treats or Toys): Put your dog’s nose to work by hiding treats or their favorite toy around the house. This game taps into their natural instincts while keeping them moving and mentally engaged. Bonus points if you use a high-value treat like Snappin' Salmon to really get their tail wagging. It turns your home into a scent-fueled playground!

3. Indoor Obstacle Course: Use pillows, boxes, chairs, and other household items to set up a mini agility course. Guide your pup through it with commands like “over,” “under,” and “through.” It’s an awesome way to build coordination and focus while also getting in some physical activity.

4. Training Sprints: Practicing basic commands like “come,” “stay,” and “sit” in short, energetic bursts helps reinforce training and burns energy at the same time. Add in some running between commands and you’ve got a mini workout session that keeps their brain and body sharp.

5. Stair Climbs: Got stairs? Use them! A few rounds of gentle stair climbs help build leg strength and endurance. Always supervise closely and avoid this one for senior dogs or pups with joint issues.

Remember, consistency is key. Short, engaging activities throughout the week can have a big impact on your dog’s overall health and happiness. Just a few minutes of movement each day supports longevity, prevents boredom, and boosts the bond between you and your furry friend.