Winter activities to do with your dog

Photo by: Nele We (Pexels)

• High-energy winter activities for active dogs
• Low-impact winter activities for older or less active dogs
• Essential winter safety tips for outdoor activities
• Preparing your dog for cold-weather exercise
• Make the most of winter and create a year-round active lifestyle

High-energy winter activities for active dogs

Photo by: Erik McLean (Pexels)

Assuming that they are dressed and prepared for the cold weather, working breeds and younger dogs are likely to see the winter as a unique landscape for high-intensity fun. Here’s some energetic outdoor inspiration.

Hiking on snowy trails, and winter sprints

As long as you keep to cleared paths, there are plenty of opportunities for exploring and running off energy on a wintery hike, just as you would in the summer. It’s surprising how much dogs love being out in nature, whatever the weather!

Just make sure it isn’t too cold for your dog before setting out.

Before you leave, get prepared with the right gear, such as an adjustable harness that will keep your dog secure and fit comfortably over their winter jacket and dog boots, which are a good option for long walks to improve their grip and keep those paws warm.

Fetch and tug games in winter weather

If you are lucky enough to have deep snow, fetch, tug, and all the usual games have a fresh sense of novelty and are a great way to bond.

Just make sure that you choose open areas away from hazards and supervise carefully. Thick snow can impact a dog's perception of the ground, and they may not be able to spot when they get too close to a road, river, or other dangerous areas.

Low-impact winter activities for older or less active dogs

Photo by: Josh Sorenson (Pexels)

Senior dogs, smaller breeds and pups with less energy may not need to run around as much, but will still need stimulation to keep their minds sharp.

Indoor games and training sessions

Sometimes the outdoors is just too cold or rainy. On those days, it’s time to turn your living room into a playground:

• Hide and seek: Hide high-value treats or their favorite toys around the house to engage their nose and tracking instincts.

• Puzzle toys: Use interactive feeders to provide mental stimulation. These come in many shapes, including puzzle mats and balls.

• Indoor agility: Make use of what you already have in the house. Cushions, boxes and toys can all be integrated into obstacle courses that you can run together. Perhaps set up a mini-slalom using sturdy boxes in the hallway, or a low jump using a broom handle across two cushions.

Remember that staying indoors doesn’t mean you are neglecting your dogs! As Dogs Trust explains, “the mental exercise of training can be just as tiring as physical exercise for our dogs. So, teach your dog new tricks using reward-based training. Not only will they learn new skills, but it will also help improve your relationship and boost their confidence.”

Walking and scent trails

Of course, not all older dogs have to stay indoors. When you do decide to head outside for a breath of fresh air, keep the walks to short sessions of 10-15 minutes so they can stretch their legs without overexerting or getting too cold. Monitor for signs of shivering or lifting paws, which indicate they are struggling and that it's time to head back into the warm.

If they are having fun, you can create scent trails - an outdoor version of hide and seek. This will keep them engaged and stimulated, without the need for an extensive hike.

Essential winter safety tips for outdoor activities

Safety is the priority when the temperature drops. Use these tips to stay protected:

• Paw care: Wipe paws after walks to remove salt, grit, and ice.

• Visibility: Use reflective dog collars and leads during dark winter afternoons.

• Frozen water: Never allow your dog to walk on frozen ponds or lakes.

• Spot signs of discomfort: Watch for hypothermia symptoms, such as excessive shivering or lethargy. If you're wondering if it’s too cold to walk your dog, always err on the side of caution.

• Avoid eating snow: Dogs typically love the snow, but avoid letting them eat too much, as it can contain harmful bacteria and the cold may ‘shock’ their stomach. There is also the risk that the snow could be hiding dangerous objects, like stones, that could damage teeth or cause choking.

• Stay vigilant: Stick to cleared paths to avoid hazards.

• Food and water: Don't let the cold fool you; dogs still get thirsty! Offer fresh water (warmed slightly if outdoors) and consider adjusting their post-play meal if they've burned extra calories staying warm.
  

Preparing your dog for cold-weather exercise

Before heading out, perform a quick health and readiness check:

• Begin with a 5-10 minute indoor warm-up to get their muscles ready for the cold.

• Ensure their coat is in good condition and use an adjustable harness to keep them secure.

• For dogs new to the snow, use gradual exposure to help them acclimate.

• Grab some brightly coloured toys and stock up on treats.

• Layer up and have fun!

Make the most of winter and create a year-round active lifestyle

Photo by: Jani Kantokoski (Pexels)

By building a seasonal routine, you can make sure that your dog is thriving year-round with indoor games and exciting trails to explore.

Don’t be intimidated by the weather. As long as you have the right accessories and listen to your dog when they show signs of tiredness or discomfort, there are plenty of memorable adventures to be had in the winter months!

Ready to brighten up those grey winter days? Explore TopDog’s colourful range of harnesses and then check our blog for more expert tips, guides and insights.