Winter Games to Play With Your Dog
Tuesday, January 24, 2023 12:14:21 PM America/Los_Angeles
Play time can feel limited during the winter months when cooler weather tends to keep us and our pups indoors. But that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! From taking advantage of the snow outdoors to some healthy mental stimulation indoors, there are plenty of winter games to keep your fur ball’s tail wagging throughout the season.
Photo by Marcus Löfvenberg
Hide and Seek
If you live in a snowy area, you don’t have to go far for this one. Simply bury a snack in the snow – not too deep, since your pooch will need to sniff it out – and see if your furry one can dig out their winter treat! A strong-smelling, dark-colored, and good-sized treat is best so that it won’t be impossible to find. A long bully stick or warm chunk of pet-safe meat is the perfect choice for playing hide and seek in the winter snow!
Catch
Catch can take on a whole new level of fun when romping through the snow to chase a favorite toy. Or, switch things up by tossing crunchy snowballs in the air for your pup to nosh on! For doggos who are a bit more nervous about running through snowy terrain, booties that keep paws from getting too cold can make the experience less intimidating.
Skijoring
For those of us who are more adventurous dog pawrents, skijoring can be a great way for dogs to enjoy some exercise with their human. Skijoring is when a person on skis is being pulled by animals or a motor vehicle. If appropriate, skijoring with your dogs is a fantastic way to bond as well as get rid of that cabin fever that’s been building up all winter!
Interactive Dog Toys
Sometimes, going outdoors just isn’t a practical option. Make staying in fun with interactive dog toys that provide more mental stimulation than a traditional toy. There’s nothing like the excitement of discovering a favorite treat hidden in a snuffle mat!
If going out is impossible due to inclement weather, keep basics like an indoor dog bathroom handy. A real bark pee pad like Bark Potty is a great way to offer a taste of the great outdoors without actually having to go outside!