Just like you, your dog needs exercise for its physical, mental and emotional health. Find out how to exercise your dog in the winter. Being outside in fresh air and sunshine, running, or walking, enjoying nature and the sights can be incredibly healing when the days are shorter, and the temperatures are colder.
Your best friend does not need to hibernate, and it’s essential that they get exercise every day. Learning how to exercise your dog in the winter also helps strengthen the pack bond between you and your dog.
Some days can be too cold to venture outside and remember that extreme cold can damage your dog’s nose and paw pads. Still, there are ways to work out your pup during the winter.
Here are five ways to stay in shape with Fido this winter.
How to Exercise Your Dog in the Winter
Play Fetch
Playing fetch can easily be done indoors or outdoors. If you have a long hallway with little clutter, you can toss or roll your dog’s favorite toy. You can catch a workout, too, by racing them to get the toy. You’ll both be active and revived in no time at all.
Utilize Your Stairs
Turn your house into a doggy boot camp by using your existing spaces. If you have stairs, march your dog up and down together. This workout is great for your quads, and your dog can enjoy racing you.
Squats for Treats
While in the squat position, hold your dog’s favorite treats or toy in your hand. When you squat down, let them see what’s in your hand. As you rise, bring your hand up over your head, so they jump for it.
Yoga for Dogs
That’s right! Even your pup can enjoy stretching and relaxing with dog yoga, or doga. Many resources can help you get started, and many dog owners report that it helps them connect with their dogs and help them de-stress.
Go For a Morning Walk
Even animals need structure! No matter what type of day it is: sunny, rainy, hot, cold, your doggie will need to go outside to do their business. Even if you don’t want to go outdoors, think about the cardiovascular health benefits you will both receive by going on a nice daily walk.
Most bigger dogs love the snow, and it won’t take much to convince them to play in the show. Spend at least 30 minutes plowing through the snow to give your dog the workout they need. Afterward, remember to wash their paws clean to get rid of any salt.
Find Unique Ways To Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy
Once you start finding ways to keep you both entertained, the sky’s the limit. For example, if you like to ski, you might be interested in skijoring. A combination of mushing and skiing, you can harness your dog to yourself and let it pull you while you use your poles and skis to help push.
Set up a doggie Olympics at home with obstacle courses that will give you both an invigorating workout. Dogs enjoy learning new tricks, and you can keep them crawling, jumping, hopping, and bouncing around the room.
If you live in an area with a long cold season, check to see if there are any indoor pet centers around you. These places are big enough to do things you can’t at home, like play frisbee or run around a track. Some even have pools so you can both swim laps together.
This winter season, you can keep yourself and your best friend in tip-top shape for when spring rolls back around! Check out our other tips on staying active during winter.
