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Winter has a way of bringing on that feeling of boredom and blah, and recently I’ve been sick of my usual post-work dog walk. I can only walk in the dark so many times before it starts to feel like running. If I’m bored, my dogs probably are too, which means it’s time to add some variety to our days.
So that you don’t fall into the boredom trap this winter and share some new experiences with your pups, we’ve put together a winter list of ten activities you and your pup can do together this winter to beat the winter blues, stay active, and strengthen your relationship (as we count down the days until summer time starts again).
Bake homemade treats
A cold winter day spent baking in the kitchen is one of my favorite ways to survive the winter. Unfortunately, our dogs can’t lick the cookie dough spoon, so making your own dog treats is a much better option. If you’re new to baking, try these simple ones peanut butter coconut oil dog treatsand for all future Great British Baking Show contestants, this dog birthday cake sure to impress.
Try a new outdoor activity
Trying not to succumb to couch potato life for the next few months? Good! The health benefits of movement because both you and your dog are worth collecting. Imagine trying a new outdoor activity together this year. Ever heard of skijoring? If you can’t make it to the mountain this season, skiing with your pup may be the next best thing. You can strap on your skis while your dog wears the harness and pulls you across the snow. If that doesn’t sound doable for you and your dog (the shih tzu won’t participate in this activity!) here are ten others winter outdoor activities you can try.
Familiarize your dog with nose work
Put your doggies amazing sniffer to work smell training. These activities are more accessible than other sports that require special equipment, so practically anyone can do them nose job try. Plus, engaging a dog’s sense of smell is incredibly rewarding and mentally stimulating. Start small and put treats or treats under a towel or blanket, then let your dog sniff them (or you can try a sniffing mat). Once they’ve mastered the blankets, slowly make it more difficult by placing treats in open boxes and placing them around the house. The key is to start small, work your way up slowly, and have fun socializing with your dog!
Romp Around in the Snow
Something about playing in the snow makes me feel like a kid again. Tap into your inner child and go crazy in the snow with your pup! They’re already running around excited to experience this magical white stuff, and they’d have even more fun with you. Just make sure it’s not too cold outsideand limit snow play to short sessions so your dog doesn’t get too cold.
Make a puzzle
If your family is anything like mine, we become puzzlers during the cold Midwest winter months. It’s more mentally engaging than a Netflix binge, and the sense of accomplishment when you put that last piece on? Nothing compares. Let your pup join in the fun with his very own puzzle. Just remember to start easy and work your way up so you don’t get frustrated.
Get Crafty
For those cold days when the last thing you want to do is bundle up and go outside, make a craft instead. This DIY dog toy it’s easy to make in just three steps and things you probably already have around the house. Warning: If your dog is a tough cheweryou might want to skip this so your hard work isn’t ruined in 10 minutes.
Teach your dog to be comfortable with boots
Our dogs may hate them, but dog boots in fact, they are practical and necessary for both hot and cold climates. In winter they can help in prevention frostbite and protect your dog from danger melting ice. Now is the perfect time to get your dog comfortable in them before the weather turns and you’re in trouble. Check out our best training tips to help your puppy get used to the strange feeling of wearing shoes (although those first few steps are funny, laughing at your dog while he struggles is not recommended).
Do an indoor agility course
If your yard is covered in snow, try making an indoor agility course. Not only is it agility training excitement to watch, but it gives your dog much-needed mental stimulation and physical exercise, and may even strengthen your bond. Free up some space in your home so you don’t accidentally break anything and set up a course with items around the house, such as an ottoman, a broom, empty boxes, and stacked pillows or blankets. Guide your dog through the trail while walking to help him orientate, then encourage him to run. Once you’ve mastered your indoor agility course, here are twelve more indoor games to play with your puppy.
Cuddle and watch a movie together
After all that outdoor excitement and indoor training, you both deserve to snuggle up on the couch with your favorite show playing in the background. Looking for something new to watch? Here are our favorites movie night basics.
