Winter Activities To Enjoy With Your Dog
Unless you are an avid outdoor enthusiast or – dare we say it – someone who LOVES winter, you may find it…difficult to get outdoors when the weather is cold. However, spending time outside is important for you and your dog, especially if you have a high energy pup who needs a lot of exercise! Here, we’ve compiled a list of activities to try with your dog if a long walk in the cold doesn’t sound appealing.
Take A Hike
Okay, we know we said we would suggest things other than long walks…but instead of the usual route around your neighborhood, try driving to a different location for a change of scenery. If you have a dog who loves the snow, you might even try snowshoeing with him or her!
Visit An Indoor Dog Park
Let your dog run around and play with other dogs while you get a chance to relax. If you don’t have an indoor dog park available, dogs who love snow will still enjoy visiting outdoor dog parks. Or, try signing up for a Dog Training Elite class to help your dog brush up on skills and socialize.
Try Skijoring
No, it’s not a made-up word. Skijoring, from the Norwegian word skikjøring, is a combination of skiing and dog sledding. If you’re an avid skier, this one’s perfect for you. Find some snowy, flat trails, hook yourself to your dog’s harness, and the two of you are on your way! This activity is only suitable for medium to large, athletic dogs.
Go Sledding
If you have small children, they and the family dog might enjoy sledding together. Set up a small course in a relatively flat area for your dog to pull your kids on a sled. As with skijoring, make sure your dog is wearing a harness for this activity, because it’s too much weight for a dog to pull with their neck. Otherwise, your dog may enjoy running alongside or chasing you down a hill as you sled!
Go To A “Doga” Class
Check out local yoga studios in your area to see if they offer classes where you can bring your dog. This activity is only suitable for well-trained, obedient dogs, and while it won’t give your dog the cardio he or she may need, it will be a fun bonding activity for you both.
Play Fetch
It’s a classic for a reason. If your dog loves snow, he or she may enjoy attempting to catch snowballs you throw. Otherwise, make sure to use a brightly colored toy or ball so your dog can find it easily.
Set Up A Scavenger Hunt
For dogs that love to track or are learning how to, hide toys and/or treats all over your backyard in the snow to test and exercise their tracking skills. Your dog will get plenty of exercise running around trying to find things, plus enjoy plenty of mental stimulation from the exercise.
Stay Inside
We know this is a list about ways to get OUTSIDE with your dog – but sometimes, you just need a cozy day in. There are loads of activities you can do with your dog inside that can provide them with mental stimulation, and at least a little exercise, and there are many ways to bond with your dog while indoors. Learn to bake your own dog treats and let your dog be part of the process, or help your dog “paint” a picture you can hang on your wall.
Stay Safe
A well-trained dog is a safe dog. If you choose to take your dog skijoring or hiking where they’ll be in big, open spaces, you want to make sure your dog is obedient and will come when called to make sure they stay out of harm’s way. Dog Training Elite’s professional trainers and training method are the best way to help your dog learn to obey commands automatically. If you choose to do an activity where your dog will be around other people, and potentially other dogs, Dog Training Elite can also help your dog learn to socialize with other dogs and people, as well as continue to obey when they are surrounded by distractions.
Of course, another great winter activity to do with your dog is sign them up to train with Dog Training Elite! Find a trainer near you to receive a free in-home evaluation for your dog, or to see a training demo today. Whatever activities you try with your dog this winter, we hope you stay safe and warm!