If you’ve got a large dog, you already know they don’t just want activity—they need it. But when you’re stuck indoors (hello, wet weather or 40° days), you still need ways to keep them mentally sharp and physically engaged.
I’ve tried it all with Mack, my German Shepherd, and these are the toys and games we go back to again and again—because they actually work and hold up to big-dog energy.
1. Brain Games & Puzzle Toys: Mack loves a good brain game! Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, especially for working breeds. Enrichment activities like puzzles are perfect for indoor time—and a great way to settle a dog who’s stuck inside.
Try our Puzzle Toy for Dogs – it’s beginner level (I’m still trying to find an intermediate and advanced level) with multiple sliding covers to hide treats. It encourages sniffing, pawing, and problem-solving without frustration.
- Slows down eating – you can stretch out dinner time if you give your dog some of their dinner in the puzzle toy
- Boosts focus
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Helps to build resilience – Mack is learning to manage his frustrations
I bring this one out once a week—it still keeps Mack thinking.
2. Tug of War That Actually Tires Them Out: Tug isn’t just fun—it’s a controlled outlet for energy. Plus, it builds your bond and gives you a chance to practice drop/release commands.
We use the Tug Toy – Black – strong webbing, stitched to last, and satisfying to bite.
- Compact but tough
- Good grip for humans
- Mack-approved for full-force tug sessions
Tip: End each tug game with a sit or down—it helps your dog shift from hype to calm.
3. Indoor Fetch Without the Chaos: You can absolutely play fetch indoors—as long as you’ve got the right toy.
The Soft Indoor Ball is a favourite in our house. It’s squishy, quiet, and won’t knock things over (unless Mack does it himself).
I’d also recommend our octopus, flying duck and Mack’s favourite ball.
- Lightweight, fabric-coated
- Tough enough for big dogs
- Perfect for hallways or tiled floors
If you’ve got a bit more space, the Hard Red Ball on a Rope is great for controlled fetch and tug.
4. The Flying Toy for Indoor or Outdoor Precision Play: For dogs with high prey drive or laser focus, nothing beats a frisbee.
If we’re using our Yellow Dog Frisbee indoors we roll it down our hallway rather than throw it. It works a treat. It’s soft-edged, easy to catch, and gentle on big dog mouths.
- Bright and easy to see
- Safe alternative to hard plastic
- Great for drive-building indoors or out
If you’ve got a hallway or clear room, short tosses can be part of your training and exercise routine—especially if your dog thrives on precision tasks.
5. Obstacle Courses & DIY Agility: You don’t need professional equipment to build a quick agility game:
- Stack cushions for jumps
- Use chairs and broomsticks for weave poles
- Add commands like “over,” “under,” and “wait” to boost impulse control
Use their favourite toy (like the Soft Indoor Ball or Tug Toy) as a reward at the end.
6. Wind-Down Time: Once your dog’s had a workout—mentally and physically—you need to let them decompress, I encourage calm with:
- A chewable Hard Ball (shop here) — great for supervised downtime
- An antler
- A frozen stuffed toy or ice cubes with treats inside
- A calm mat and a practice of “place” command
Downtime helps dogs settle and reduces hyperactivity later in the day.
Final Thoughts from Mack:
Entertaining a big dog indoors doesn’t have to be chaotic. With the right mix of brain games, tug, chase toys, and structured rest, you can turn a boring day into a productive one—and keep your dog happy and balanced.
All of the toys mentioned here are available at Big Dog Things. Mack and I have tested every single one—because we only stock what holds up to real-life big dog play.
Shop the full indoor play collection now – from puzzles to tug toys, and everything in between.