Ten Things to Do with Your Dog this Season
Westend61 / Getty
Winter has a way to make you feel bored. Recently, I found myself bored after my regular after-work walk. I can only walk in the dark You have to do it so many times that it feels like a grind. I discovered that my dogs can be bored just like I am, so it’s time for us to add variety to our day.
To prevent my pups from falling into the boredom trap, I have created a winter bucketlist. It includes 10 activities your pup and you can do together to beat the winter blues and stay active.
1. Bake homemade treats
Jason Donnelly
I love spending a winter day baking in the kitchen. We can’t let our dogs lick the bowl of the brownie batter spoon so it is better to make them their own treats. These are some easy ways to get started in baking. peanut butter coconut oil dog treatsThis is for all future Great British Baking Show contestants. dog birthday cake This is sure to impress.
2. Explore a New Outdoor Activity
murmakova / Adobe Stock
Do you want to avoid becoming a couch potato for the next few month? Good! Good! health benefits of movement Bundling up for you and your pet is worth it. This year, make it a point to take your dog for a walk or try something new. You may have heard of skijoring? Skijoring with your dog is a great alternative if you are unable to make it up to the mountain. You can put on skis and your dog will pull you through the snow. You and your dog may not find this feasible. shih tzu (Will not be participating in this event!) Here are ten more winter outdoor activities You could try.
3. Introduce your dog to nose work
Aleksandr Zotov / Getty
Use your pet’s amazing sniffer to make a difference scent training. These activities are easier than any other sport that requires special equipment. Anyone can participate. nose work Give it a shot. Engaging a dog’s senses of smell can be incredibly enriching for their mental health and mentally stimulating. You can start small by placing some treats or kibble underneath a blanket or towel, and then let your dog smell them (or a snuffle pad). When they are comfortable with blankets, you can gradually make it more difficult by giving them treats in open containers and placing them around your house. It is important to begin slowly, work your way up, have fun, and engage with your dog.
RELATED: Why You Should Let Your Dog Sniff During Walks—A Lot!
4. You can run, jump, dig, and play in the snow
Cavan Images / Getty
Playing in the snow is what makes me feel like I’m a child again. Get out there with your dog and unleash your inner child. You’re their best friend and they will have more fun together. Make sure it isn’t too cold outsideKeep your dog’s exposure to snow limited to short periods so that they don’t become too cold.
RELATED: Why Do Dogs Love Snow So Much?
5. Try a puzzle
Lenti Hill/ Adobe Stock
If you have a family like mine, then we are your best friend. puzzle fiends During the winter months in the Midwest. It’s more engaging than Netflix, and it gives you a sense of accomplishment when you finish. It’s the best. Enjoy the company of your pet dog. their own puzzle. Be patient and start with the easy ones, then move up to the more difficult ones.
6. Super Bowl Paw-ty
Amazon
Do not forget to mention the dog jerseys Enjoy your favorite team pup-friendly snacks?, and toys To keep everyone happy. These are our top picks paw-ty-throwing tips Throw a memorable Super Bowl party.
7. Get crafty
Better Homes and Gardens
You can make a craft to help you get through those cold winter days. This is how it works DIY dog toy Easy to put together in just three steps using items you likely already have at home. Warning: Your dog may be aggressive if they are not trained properly. tough chewerYou might skip this step to ensure that your hard work isn’t destroyed in 10 minutes.
8. Get your dog comfortable with boots
Wendy / Adobe Stock
They might be a scourge for our dogs, but they love them. dog boots They are both practical and essential for cold and hot climates. They are useful in winter to help prevent frostbite Protect your dog from dangerous situations ice melt. You have plenty of time to make sure your dog is comfortable before the weather changes and you get in a tight spot. Take a look at our best training tips You can help your dog to get used to the strange sensation of wearing shoes.
RELATED: 7 Ways to Protect Your Dog’s Paws From Snow, Ice, and Salt This Winter
9. Install an indoor agility course
Katja / Adobe Stock
Try building an indoor agility track if you have a snowy backyard. It is not only practical, but it also makes your backyard look more appealing. agility training It’s a fun activity that is both entertaining and stimulating for your dog. You will need to clear space around your home to avoid accidentally breaking anything. Set up a course by using objects from your home such as an ottoman and broomsticks, empty boxes and stacked pillows and blankets. To help your dog get used to the course, walk them through it and then let them run. Here are 12 more indoor agility courses to help you master your indoor agility course. indoor games to play with your pup.
10. Relax and watch a good movie together
Aja Koska / Getty
After all the outdoor training and excitement, it’s time to relax on the couch with your favorite TV show. You’re looking for something different to watch? Here are some suggestions. seven new movies and shows Stream in January. Don’t forget these movie-night essentials.