How to Keep Your Dog Fit This Winter

When winter weather hits, sometimes you just want to cuddle up next to the fire and wait it out. If you feel this way, chances are your dog feels this way as well. While it’s probably fine to cuddle up next to the fire once in a while, you both need exercise and stimulation to stay fit. Not sure how to achieve this for your dog when it’s frigid outside? The following are some ideas to get you started!

Make Mealtime Entertaining

You don’t have to just fill a bowl with dog food and sit it on the kitchen floor. There are different types of dog toys and puzzles that allow your dog to get both physically and mentally stimulated while trying to get the food out. Some dog food toys are adjustable to meet the challenge level your furry family member is at, and others have a standard difficulty level to keep any dog engaged. Dog food mazes and balls are non-toxic, safe, and fun, and will help your dog burn calories indoors.

Many dog behavior classes can be held indoors. If you’ve been thinking about signing your dog up for a class, winter is a great time to get it done. These types of classes give your dog an opportunity to socialize outside your home while learning some great behavioral skills. Obedience school might include lessons in greeting guests properly, sitting, patiently waiting for food, walking on a leash and other important skills. Being involved in such a class also keeps your dog moving on a regular basis, whether you’re in class or practicing skills at home.

Implement a Treadmill Into Your Dog’s Daily Routine

A doggy treadmill is a great way to keep your pet moving when it’s cold outside. With products specifically designed for dogs, such as the DogPacer Dog Treadmill – LF3.1 , you can work on preventing obesity and encouraging good health during winter. Place your dog treadmill next to your own so you and your pet can enjoy going on walks together. With adjustable speeds, your dog can get his energy out at a pace that’s right for him.

Cautiously Walk Outdoors

It is ok to walk your dog outdoors if the conditions are right and you are prepared for the weather. You should avoid early mornings and late evenings when it’s dark, but when the sun comes out and the afternoon warms a bit, don’t be afraid to head out for a short walk. Remember the following as you head out.

Pay attention to how you’re feeling. If you feel like it’s getting too cold, your dog probably feels the same. If your feet are getting too wet, your dog’s feet are probably soaking wet as well. If it’s too much, head back inside.
Watch for signs your dog is experiencing hypothermia. This could include shivering, weakness, loss of mental ability or other similar symptoms. Take your dog indoors as soon as you recognize symptoms and warm up by a fire, heater or in a warm blanket.
Change the dog’s clothes if they get wet. Before you leave on your walk, put a sweater, jacket or coat on your dog . There are a lot of options to choose from, with some being trendy and cute, and others being practical and simple. If the dog gets splashed in a puddle or rolls around in the snow, change his jacket or coat to one that is dry for the remainder of your walk.
Put shoes or boots on your dog, depending on the weather. If it’s wet on the path you’re taking, be sure to use waterproof dog boots . If it’s simply cold, you could probably get away with non-skid socks.

Before beginning any type of exercise regime with your furry family member, you should take him to a veterinarian for a wellness checkup. If the vet determines it is safe for your dog to spend time in the cold, only then should you follow these steps for a winter walk.

Search for a Nearby Dog Gym and Visit It

More and more these days, businesses are accommodating to pets. Search online for a nearby dog gym or a human gym that allows dogs. There are some facilities with specific machines for your dog, and others that have wide open spaces with turf where your dog can run around. Your dog will be able to socialize, and he will get the proper exercise he needs.

Schedule Some Time at a Doggy Daycare

Yes, it will give you some time for yourself so you can run errands without worrying about old Fido, but doggy daycare is also great for your pet. Many facilities have scheduled physical activities that get your dog moving while you’re gone. Some doggy daycare facilities have trainers on hand who work with the dogs, teaching them obedience and other proper behaviors, which is not only a bonus for you, but a great indoor activity for your dog.

Play With Your Dog More Than Usual

Keeping your dog physically and mentally fit during the winter might simply come down to you spending some extra time with your canine counterpart. Sit at the top of your basement staircase and play fetch with a rope ring toy , giving your dog the exercise that comes with running up and down the stairs. Wrestle with him in the back room where it doesn’t matter if you get a little rough. It’s easy to just send your dog outside during the summer so he can run around, but if you get even a little more creative during winter, he can get as good a workout as any.

Make a Plan and Go for It

As an important member of your family, your dog’s health matters as much as anyone else’s. Don’t let winter get in the way of a healthy and strong canine. With so many ways you can exercise your dog and keep him fit during winter, there’s no excuse for obesity or lethargy. Create a winter fitness plan for your dog today and get going with it!