Beating the Doggie Winter Blues
Winter can mean fun outdoor adventures with dogs, from snowy play dates to winter hiking when conditions permit. However, not all dogs or their humans enjoy the colder season. In some cases, winter can mean ice and wind which definitely puts a damper on outdoor activities with or without our canine companions. Looking for ways to beat the doggie winter blues? We’re here to help!
Indoor Entertainment
When the mercury drops, active high-energy dogs can get a bit bored or stir-crazy. Sometimes that means bad habits such as unwanted chewing or barking start occurring. While getting the same amount of physical exercise in colder months can be challenging, there are productive ways to beat the doggie winter blues.
Indoor entertainment can be as simple as a game of tug-of-war or hide-and-seek with your pup. If you’re lucky enough to have a big enough indoor space such as an open floor plan or large garage, a controlled game of fetch may even be an option. Depending on your dog’s preference and chew-style, American Dog makes some great tugs and flyers with and without squeakers, that are American-made and built to last. Among our favorites are their collections of tugs and durable toys along with their simple and affordable Lucky Dog $7 collection.
Another great indoor option for doggie entertainment on cold days are puzzle and treat toys and games. Tractor Supply has a large selection of interactive toys that are a great way to break up doggie boredom when you don’t have time to entertain them yourself. Whether you’re out on the ski hill, stuck in meetings, or have other plans away from home, ensuring your dogs have mental stimulation when you are gone is a great way to prevent bad habits from reappearing.
The Woof Pupsicle is a great interactive toy with options for refills, or a DIY tray to make your own.
Outdoor Adventures
Sometimes you and your pup just need to get outside! For starters, if you’re planning a winter adventure, be sure to read our blog, “Winter Adventures with Dogs.” Next, consider your dog, the outdoor adventure you are planning, and figure out what you and your dog need to have fun while staying protected from the elements.
For short bursts of outdoor activity, a plowed driveway or area with lower snow in your yard or neighborhood is a good place to start. While many dogs love playing in the depper snow, not all dogs enjoy it and some may be sensitive to the cold. Thinner-coated dogs may need protection in the form of a doggie jacket or even boots, while hardier breeds such as Huskies and Malamutes are more likely to be content without any added gear. Playing fetch in a plowed driveway can be a lot of fun for you and your dog, while providing a great respite from indoor-boredom.
Playing fetch in a plowed driveway can be a fun way to beat the doggie winter blues.
When heading outside for a game of fetch, it is important to make sure that the area in which you’ll be playing is clear of ice, which poses a risk of injury to you and your dog. Icy conditions can mean slipping and sliding, and even dogs are susceptible to leg and joint injuries. Chunks of ice can act like glass when stepped upon, causing cuts and abrasions, or even ice splinters. Ice over pavement is extremely hazardous not just due to its slippery nature, but also because it can cause abrasions on paws and pads, and broken toenails which are quite painful for your dog. Should any issues arise that need first-aid attention, head inside and grab some Curicyn! Our blood stop powder is perfect for broken or split nails, while our wound care clay is soothing and healing for pads and paws.
If you plan on going on a longer adventure exploring or hiking, we recommend bringing a first aid kit with you on trail. Cuts and abrasions can happen anywhere and our easy-to-carry pet care kit has everything you need in a lightweight, easy to carry pack. Be sure to check the weather, and plan your day accordingly. If there are chances of high winds or snow squalls, avoiding higher elevations and exposed ridges is prudent as even dogs can get windburn and frostbite. Plan to be back well before sundown, allowing additional time to go slowly through challenging terrain or difficult conditions due to the season. Rushing through the forest or hiking up a hillside takes longer when there is frozen ground or snow to contend with!
What do you do to create fun winter playtime activities with your dog? Please tag us on social at @Curicyn and share your winter boredom-busting dog activities with us so we can follow your adventures, too!
Winter hiking with dogs can be a ton of fun when you are prepared.