Surviving the Winter with Your Dog

Winter in much of the U.S. can mean shorter days, bad weather, freezing temperatures, and bored pets. Those dreary winter days can start to seem endless if you don’t find a way to mix it up and keep your dog occupied. Bored pets will often act out, and an active dog that is cooped up indoors can start to exhibit unwanted behaviors. Know how to tell if your pet is bored this winter and what you can do about it.

Signs that your dog is bored

Here are some signs that being cooped up in the winter is getting to your dog and causing boredom.

Your dog has become destructive

When dogs get bored they seek to entertain themselves. Unless you provide your dog with plenty of stimulation during the day they might try to find their own. This often results in destructive actions like chewing on forbidden items, getting into the trash, digging at the carpet or floor, and other unwanted behaviors. If your dog starts exhibiting these more than usual, it is a strong sign that you need to provide more stimulation.

Your dog follows you everywhere

Some dogs, when they are bored, will follow their owners from room to room all day long. If you find yourself tripping over your dog or bumping into them every time you turn around, they might be trying to tell you that they need more attention. You are, afterall, your dog's main source of entertainment.

Your dog actively seeks your attention

While some dogs will silently stick to your heels in an attempt to get you to relieve their boredom, others will not be quiet about their unhappiness. If your dog is whining, barking, or otherwise loudly seeking your attention, you might want to think of some ways to help relieve their boredom and maybe some of your own in the process.

Tips for stimulating your dog

Relieving your dog’s boredom during the winter is important not only for your own sanity, but for the health of your dog as well. Here are five tips for surviving the winter and keeping your dog active and healthy

1.Get outside when you can

Taking your dog outside for regular walks and playtime is the best way to keep them healthy and happy in the winter. If your dog has a hard time in the cold, bundle them up just as you would yourself. A snowsuit designed for dogs is a great option for sustained outdoor play in the snow. Most dogs love romping through the snow and a dog snowsuit makes it possible even for dogs that get cold easily. A lighter option, more suited for walking or running with your dog in the winter, is the a runner dog coat. You do not want your dog overheated if they are exerting a lot of energy. A dog coat designed for running will offer cover enough to keep warm, while still allowing for uninhibited movement and breathability.

2.Make the indoors fun

Even for dogs who love to go outside in the winter, some days are just too cold or too stormy. On these days it is important to make the indoors entertaining for your dog. While it might be hard to play fetch inside, there are other games and ways that you can help keep your dog occupied. Dog toys like a puzzle or chew toy, which stimulate the mind and exercise your dog’s chewing muscles, are a great way to stave off your dog’s boredom. Used with your dog's favorite treat, these kinds of toys can keep your dog occupied and chewing for a good amount of time. If you want in on playtime, give your dog a tug toy. Most dogs love a good game of tug-o-war, and spending some time playing with your dog each day is an important part of maintaining and building your relationship.

3.Go to your regular vet checkups

Did you know that dogs, just like humans, can get viruses like the flu? While they are not the same viruses that infect humans, they spread through dogs much the same way they do between people. If your dog attends doggie daycare or is around other dogs, they can catch illnesses. These viruses are more common in winter when dogs are indoors and in closer proximity to one another. Taking your dog to the veterinary clinic in the winter months is a good idea. Also make sure that your dog is up-to-date on their vaccinations. If your dog does contract an illness, make sure to follow the veterinarians instructions for treatment and administration of medications to ensure the quickest possible recovery.

4. Celebrate with your pet

Did you know that January 14th is national dress up your pet day? It’s true! Use it as an excuse to have some fun with your dog. Arrange a party with your fellow friends and their dogs. Create a costume competition or fashion show. Who can resist a pup in a cute costume ? And don’t forget Valentine’s Day. Your pup is a special part of your life, so don’t forget to pamper them on this day as well.

5. Treat your dog to a spa day

A day at the dog spa will help keep your dog’s coat and skin fresh and healthy. While you may want to keep your dog’s coat longer in the winter than the summer, you should still make sure that it is clean and well groomed in order to prevent matting and skin irritation. If your dog is indoors more, it may also mean that his claws are not naturally wearing down as quickly, and you will want to be sure that they are clipped regularly. When your dog is home from the spa smelling sweet and feeling soft, it will be a joy to snuggle together on a cold winter evening.

Don’t let winter get you down! It can be a wonderful time with your dog both outdoors and in. Focus on your relationship and remember that if your dog is acting out, it may just be that they need a little more time and attention.