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As the weather turns colder and the nights draw in, those summer adventures with your pup feel like a distant memory. However, while you may no longer have the warmth and long daylight hours, you can still do plenty of fun things with your furry friend in winter.
Naturally, you may not be inclined to take your pup on multiple walks each day. However, if you're spending less time outside, finding ways to keep your dog's body and mind active indoors is vital for their well-being.
So if you're wondering how to keep your fur child entertained (and active) during the colder months, read on. Here are five fun winter activities for your dog that you will both love!
1. Make an indoor agility course
If you want to stay warm and cozy, bring the outdoors inside by creating an indoor agility course. The best thing about this activity is that you probably already have all you need at home. Chairs, blankets, broomsticks, and hula hoops are all excellent objects for creating an agility course.
This winter activity is equally beneficial for you and your pup. As you set up the course, you'll work your brain and tap into your creative potential. Then, your dog will enjoy a fantastic body and mind workout as he navigates it. Just be sure to create a stable course to keep your furry friend from knocking it down as he goes.
2. Head to an indoor dog park
While nowadays you'll find outdoor dog parks in most towns and cities, indoor versions are also starting to pop up in Canada. These venues are ideal for cold, rainy, and snowy days when your pup has tons of energy to burn.
Along with allowing your pup to run, jump, slide and play in a safe environment, your fur child will also make many new canine friends at an indoor dog park.
If you're close to Lethbridge, Alberta, check out Paw Time Indoor Dog Park, which also offers doggy day care services so you can leave your pup for a full day of fun. Or, if you're in or around Vancouver, head to Gus' Indoor Dog Park and Daycare.
3. Bake holiday treats
One of the best things about winter is the festivities. So why not get into the spirit with festive baking with your canine buddy?
First, you'll need to find some dog-friendly recipes. I recommend these healthy homemade dog treats, loaded with sweet potato, peanut butter, whole oats and cinnamon. Humans and canines find them delicious, and the touch of cinnamon gives them a festive flavour. You can also use holiday cutters to make them extra Christmassy.
The baking process itself is just as enjoyable as the eating part. While your pup may not be able to assist you much in the preparation, he will surely offer his services to lick the bowl clean afterwards!
4. Get artsy
Another fun indoor activity you can do with your dog on cold winter days is making art. Now, I'm not suggesting that you let your dog loose with a tin of paint in your home! Instead, an excellent creative activity to do together is to make a paw print canvas using dog-safe washable paint.
As most dogs love getting mucky, your pup will surely jump at the chance to dip his paw in a tray of paint. Buy some high-quality canvas paper to place the paw prints on. Moreover, you can make it a family portrait by adding your hand prints.
Paw print canvases make a fantastic holiday gift for any family member who loves your pup as much as you do! Just remember to wash your dog's paws thoroughly afterwards to avoid him spreading his artistic talents around the rest of the house.
5. Go on a winter hike
Finally, although it's cold out, winter landscapes are magical, especially when it snows. So wrap yourself up in warm clothes, put on your pup's coat and booties, and head outdoors.
Forest walks are particularly magnificent during the snow season, with the snow-capped trees, crunchy ground, and crisp, fresh air. The change of scenery and scents that come with winter will have your dog in awe as he sniffs around and explores with pure amazement.
As long as your dog wears booties and a coat, he shouldn't feel the cold. Still, be sure to put on the heating, or better yet, the fireplace, once you return home.
Final thoughts
As you can see, there is no reason why your furry friend should get bored when it's cold outside. These five winter activities with your dog will keep her happy and entertained all season long. For those that choose to make an indoor agility course... send Furkin some pictures or videos to be featured on our social media channels!
