4 great ideas to keep your dog active this winter

Winter and even fall months can be a difficult time to get training and exercise for your dog. Even if you live in a warmer climate location, outdoor temperatures can be too cold to let your dog walk, play, and exercise. This is a real problem because every dog needs their exercise, as do humans. Decreased exercise leads to potential health problems, along with pet anxiety that results in damaged furniture, excessive barking, and aggression. What are the best solutions to getting through the cold months and still enjoying the benefits that great exercise brings for you and your best friend? Here are some options to consider:

Hit the Treadmill

What is the go-to when it is too cold outside, but you want to get your morning jog? If you own a treadmill, that is one of the best solutions to getting a good run in without enduring the weather. Now, for many, they may be concerned that a treadmill is not dog-friendly. However, you will be surprised how quickly your dog - no matter their size - can pick up running on the treadmill. Begin by setting the dog on the treadmill and starting with a slow setting while managing them with a leash. As they get the hang of it, you can increase the speed and continue until you are confident enough to take them off of the leash. Getting a good run every day is one of the best ways to keep you and your dog fit, and the cold outside doesn't need to nip you in the bud.

Creative Fun-Filled Activities

Dogs have a great personality, and they love to be fun and playful through entertaining activities. The weather doesn't need to stop you from getting needed exercise with a little fun. You may be connected with your pet enough to know the kind of fun activities that they will positively react to, and one idea can be as simple as a scavenger hunt. Encouraging your pet's natural abilities to hunt by taking their favorite snack and placing it in random places throughout the house and lead on the hunt. Other ideas can range from tug-of-war, obstacle courses, hide and seek, and chase. You should always reward your pet with a treat as they play to encourage them to continue.

Dog Classes

For many people, they may not prefer to have the potential ruckus that comes from playdates and activities in the home. If that is your case, a great alternative to outdoor exercise is going to classes for dogs. Dog classes are not always expensive and are great for dog interaction, training, and of course, needed exercise. Dog courses can range from swimming classes, frisbee and flyball, and other sports, obedience training, and even freestyle dance classes. You will be surprised how many options are available just by searching online for local dog classes near you.

Playdate

Many dogs thrive when they have regular interactions with other dogs, which is why dog parks are great for your best friend. When the weather is too cold to go to the park, an organized playdate with a friend's dog or neighbor is a great way to encourage exercise and interaction. Studies have proven that it is healthy for dogs to interact with one another, and they naturally jump around and play. Give them a few squeaky toys and treats, and enjoy watching them be thoroughly entertained.

Winter months do not need to prevent you and your canine from enjoying physical exercise and fun. Every dog needs to get their needed activity, not only for them to enjoy life but to thrive and be themselves. Man's best friend deserves the best, and as you see with these recommended indoor activities, a little effort can go a long way. May this season be bright to you and your canine friends.

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