Okay, with all of this rain we've had lately, we are assuming your dogs are going a bit stir crazy like ours. Anyone with a dog knows rainy weather poses a whole host of issues from the obvious....wet dogs, wet dog smells, hot spots, ear infections, etc...to the less obvious but equally problematic...boredom!

Here is a list of suggestions we have come up with to help alleviate "cabin fever." Not everything will appeal to everyone but hopefully you can take away one or two ideas to try out with your pack. Please add your own suggestions by commenting on this blog. And remember, sunny days are ahead!

RAINY DAY FUN WITH YOUR DOGS

1. Sit on the floor and play with your dog...kind of obvious but sometimes we forget or are too busy to make time to just sit and play with our dogs.
2. Play hide and seek in the house...take some of your dog's favorite toys or treats and hide them throughout the house or play peek-a-boo by running and hiding yourself.
3. Play fetch in the house...roll a ball along a long hallway and have your dog retrieve it. If the ball won't do any damage, you can even bounce it off the walls/doors to make it more exciting. A variation of this game is to have your dog stand at the top of a staircase (preferably carpeted) and you stand at the bottom. Throw the ball up to the landing and then encourage your dog to drop it down the stairs. The ball will bounce down the stairs and then you can throw it back up.
4. Play "school"...dogs like the challenge obedience training offers so a rainy day is the perfect time to practice your training lessons or commands. Pick one or two "rusty" commands and practice them.
5. Teach your dog a new trick...have you always wanted to teach your dog a new trick but haven't had the time? Well, a rainy day is a great opportunity to focus your dog on learning a new skill.
6. Watch a movie...some dogs are simply content to have a little cuddle time. Our lives are so hectic, we don't always get to spend quality "down time" with our loved ones and this includes our pups. Pop a movie in and invite your dog into your lap for some one-on-one time.
7. Groom your dog...give your dog the bath you have procrastinated giving her or spend a little extra time brushing your dog. Use this time to catch up on your dog's grooming.
8. Bake some dog cookies...yes, we know (most) dogs don't know how to bake but they can keep you company in the kitchen while you whip up a batch of their favorite homemade treats.
9. Go shopping...take your dog on an outing. Hit the bank or other local dog-friendly businesses where your dog will get some attention (and maybe a treat or two). Stop at your local dog boutique and let your dog pick out a special treat.
10. Embrace the rain....throw on your rain gear and just go out for a long walk in the rain. It is just water and if it is not cold outside, walking in the rain can be quite refreshing. And if your dog loves towel time, you'll have plenty of that when you get back home.

HAVE FUN!