When temperatures soar, skipping the walk isn’t lazy—it’s smart. With the mercury rising to 30°C and beyond, it’s simply not safe to head out for your usual walk.
But that doesn’t mean your dog has to be bored, frustrated or bouncing off the walls. There are plenty of ways to keep them mentally engaged, gently stimulated, and beautifully calm—without setting paw outside.
Here are 7 simple, walk-free ways to help your dog stay cool, settled and satisfied.
1. Scatter Feeding
Ditch the bowl and let your dog forage! Sprinkle dry food or small treats across a cool room or shaded garden space and let them sniff out every last crumb.
✅ Builds calm focus
✅ Encourages natural behaviour
✅ Great for dogs who get bored easily indoors
2. Frozen Treats & Lick Mats
Stuff a Kong with their usual food, add a dollop of yoghurt or mashed banana, and freeze it. Or spread some wet food or soft cheese onto a lick mat and pop it in the fridge.
✅ Soothes and cools
✅ Encourages calming licking
✅ Keeps them busy with little effort from you-
3. DIY Scent Games
Use old cardboard boxes, flowerpots, or even rolled-up towels. Hide treats underneath, let your dog search, and reward when they find the right one.
✅ Low-energy enrichment
✅ Great for older or heat-sensitive dogs
✅ Mental exercise = physical tiredness
4. Teach a Slow Trick
Choose something gentle, like chin rest, touch, or spin. Use tiny treats and short, quiet sessions.
✅ Keeps their brain active without overexertion
✅ Strengthens your bond
✅ Ideal for rainy or too-hot days
5. Create a Chill Zone
Set up a comfy, shady spot with a fan, cool mat, and some soft background noise. Encourage your dog to relax there with a chew or frozen toy.
✅ Promotes natural resting behaviour
✅ Helps prevent overexcitement indoors
✅ Especially good for puppies and anxious dogs
6. Scentwork Indoors
Hide a scented item or even a toy with a bit of cheese scent rubbed on it. Let your dog sniff it out in one room at a time.
✅ Builds confidence
✅ Mimics working dog brain activity
✅ Great practice for anyone considering scent classes later on
7. Short, Structured Games
Play 2–3 minutes of calm games like:
Catch Me (you take a step away, they come to you for a treat)
Middle (come to stand between your legs)
Find It! (toss a treat, let them sniff and find)
✅ No high energy needed
✅ Reinforces cues and connection
✅ Keeps dogs mentally tuned-in
Final Thoughts
On hot days, your dog doesn’t need long walks to stay happy—they need the chance to use their nose, brain, and body in small, satisfying ways. Swapping your usual routine for cooler, calmer alternatives isn’t just OK… it’s brilliant.
So skip the guilt, stock the freezer, and let enrichment do the work.
Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy a slower pace together 🐾☀️
The Canine Hub 