Look at this guy… Can you tell, Winter is Coming?

In the summer, we’re all outside, running around at the dog park, in the yard, going for walks, going on play dates. But when it gets cold outside how do we keep our dogs in shape? Because they don’t hibernate and can gain that little extra weight (just like us humans).

Here are 6 tips I found online that can help keep your pooch active and sharp - even during the slow, quiet, cold winter.

#1: Play games with your dog

Hide & Seek: Hide treats for your dog to go find. It fits right in with the fact that our dogs LOVE to have chores to do.

#2: A good nose challenge

Our dogs sniffer is incredibly powerful. Create an obstacle course for your fur baby that leads them to their food.

#3: Doggy treadmill

If you don’t have a doggy treadmill yours can also work. Just make sure you take time to familiarize your dog for safety.

#4: Sign your dog up for classes

There are indoor pools and playgrounds for us to take our dogs to for some indoor exercise and play time. Just check out your local area.

#5: Targeting practice

Never heard of this? Me either. But I’m going to try this with my Rylee! Teaching your dog to touch the back of your hand with their nose, on command, is targeting. This has other benefits as its distracts your dog from barking and again, its like a chore (something to do) that keeps them focused.

#6: Just do it - get outside

If you get snow - you’re dog likely LOVES IT. Let them play in it. You can encourage them to run around like a crazy too. When they’re done, just dry them off when bringing them in. I know Rylee loves the snow. He jumps INTO it from the porch and blazes his own trails - and ONLY follows those trails. It’s pretty cool.

This should provide a little variety for working out your puppy during the winter. I can tell you for Rylee (our corgi) we throw the ball down our long hall from the family room to the front door and he RUNS! When he’s not running, we’re playing “catch-it” in the family room or at least throwing the ball for him in the backyard - more work for us since he is NOT a retriever. haha

Happy Wintering Workouts!!

For more information on these tips I found, visit: 6 Winter Exercise Tips For Your Dog - Cesar's Way (cesarsway.com)