5 Cold Weather Activites For Dogs

Winter in Minnesota can mean week upon week of not too many long walks or trips to the park with the dogs especially when you have two short-haired mutts who shiver when the temps hit below freezing!

Not sure about yours, but our dogs let us know when we go even a single day without a good, long walk or run. There is an evident abundance of built-up energy. So how on earth do we make it through winter without our dogs (and quite frankly, ourselves) losing their minds?

Here are five ideas for entertaining our four-legged friends through the cold months:

1: Enrichment toys

Think KONG, wobble balls, treat dispensing toys, puzzles, etc. These will provide a challenge to your dog and also reward them with a tiny treat when they figure it out! Keep several and rotate them so your dog doesn't get bored with the same puzzle each day.

2: Training

Whether at home or in a training class, the winter months can be a great time to practice with your dog! Stimulating your dog’s mind can wear them out more than you’d imagine. This can be a fun time to test out agility, flyball, and other activities!

3: Treadmill

You know you’re the dedicated dog owner when you have invested in a treadmill - solely for your pooch. A little training and you’ll be on your way! This is an excellent solution for exercising when time or weather is an issue. Please be sure to have a full checkup at the vet to determine if your dog isn't suffering from any medical or pain-related issues before trying this.

4: Indoor Dog Parks / Dog-Friendly Stores

Dog daycares and indoor dog parks are popping up more and more; a simple Google search for an indoor dog park might have you surprised to find one in your area. Also, check with local doggy daycares or training facilities as many offer open play times or private play times (gather a few friends and have a playdate!).

Another idea is to take your dog on a mini outing. Make it a date and visit your local dog-friendly pet store, work on some training while you’re there, pick up a bag of treats or a new toy and you’ll have one happy pup!

5: Bundle Up

Sometimes we just have to bundle up, protect ourselves (and dogs) from the cold and have fun! Consider purchasing Musher’s Wax (or booties) for those with sensitive paws. Snowshoeing, hiking, and even skijoring (if you’re more adventurous than me) can burn calories and make for a day filled with adventure.

And of course, there’s always one of my favorite things to do: cuddling up on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa and embracing the warmth and comfort of having a dog by our side.