The weather outside is frightful.  Snow and ice are everywhere, at least in most parts of the country, and it feels like it’s 13 below zero. Nobody wants to go outside for anything, and a trip to the mailbox is an Alaskan adventure.  But the dog is giving you that look again: if you don’t take him outside, shredding the cushions might become his new favorite activity.

Some people think that dogs don’t need as much exercise in the winter as they do during other parts of the year. This is not the case.  They need the same amount of exercise.  If anything, the winter months are a time when exercise is most crucial.  If you are stuck inside, use the time indoors to think of ways to get exercise and stimulation, without either one of you freezing your tail off.

The weather may be cold and uninviting, but that doesn’t mean outdoor time can’t happen at all. It just means it can’t be for as long, and there are some extra precautions to consider.

Outdoor Play:

If you’re going to engage in outdoor play in winter weather here are some things to keep in mind:

•Don’t walk on the sidewalks or streets that have recently been treated with sand or salt. These can cause abrasions to the dog’s foot pads, which can lead to more serious foot problems

•Keep your dog warm. He may have fur, but that doesn’t mean he won’t catch hypothermia. Heating up too fast during exercise, and cooling down may bring on symptoms.  Avoid over exercising.

•Avoid long exposure. This can cause the dog to become hypothermic as well. Spending too much time in the wet snow and ice can also cause frostbite in your dog’s feet. So bundle Fido up with a sweater and boots before venturing out!

•Watch your dog during his play out in the snow. The new substance on the ground may have covered up many of his familiar smells, causing disorientation. This effect is very unlikely to have any bad effects (if it occurs at all) since, like any good pack leader, you’ll be with him. But it’s worth the consideration.

•Older dogs. The senior members of your house may have joint problems, so be sure the cold won’t aggravate those conditions, before taking older dogs outside.

Indoor Play:

For ease, for time’s sake, for health and safety, or for whatever the reason—if you’ve chosen indoor play for your dog—here are a few ideas to get the ball rolling. (Remember: the activity should be just as stimulating for his mind as it is his body).

•Do some training. Obedience or trick training can be a good way to keep an intelligent and energetic dog happy while being stuck inside. His brain will be simulated, and you’ll have some new entertainment for guests.

•Puppy push-ups. Get your dog to sit up and lie down repeatedly on command. This “push-up” will help your dog burn off some energy.

•Playing “catch” with the dog between two family members is another good game. To play, each person stands at the opposite side of the room and takes turns calling the dog to them.

•Fetch. It may be old-fashioned, but the classics never fail. A good round of fetch will be good exercise. Spot will have something to chase; though you’ll probably tire of the game before he does!

•Doggie Daycare/indoor dog parks. Doggie Daycare can be a nice way to give your dog some social interaction with others of his kind, without having to mess with a walk. Indoor dog parks are few and far between, but if you’ve been graced with one nearby, you may consider utilizing it. A nice warm way to enjoy the park, but without the cold and wet. Unlike outdoor parks, these indoor facilities have cost associated with them, so do some research before hand. Also, be sure that you understand the rules of the park before bringing your dog. Good courtesy to the other participants, and a sure way to make sure everyone has a good time.

•Dog Treadmill. These are expensive, running easily in the thousands. But if you have the means, a canine treadmill could be a good investment in your dog’s health and wellbeing. These treadmills are designed to maximize dog-friendliness, while minimizing injury. However, like with all new things, there is an adjustment period. Your dog may need encouragement and positive reinforcement, before he comes around. Supervise your dog, and start slow. If you’re interested in looking at a dog treadmill visit: www.jogadog.com. It ‘s one option, but will give you an idea of what to look for.

Lastly, if all else fails, settle for taking him along with you on some of your errands. When all is said and done, your dog enjoys nothing more than being with you. If you can, bring him along on a trip to the post office or pharmacy. The car ride will break up the monotony of an otherwise predictable day, and provide the two of you with one more opportunity to bond (don’t leave him long in a cold car, though!).

A new chew-toy or treat will do in a pinch. It will give your companion something to focus on and play with, making boredom less likely. Which is good news for that Persian rug and leather couch.

With a combination of these activities and enrichments, it should be easier for you to get Rover the exercise he needs. Well-exercised, he will make the winter months more enjoyable, and before you know it, the Thaw will come. The sun will come out, and Rover can roll in the green grass once more.

By: Kirsten Laulainen

Special Thanks To: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net/ for the image.

Resources:
21 January 2009. “Winter Activities For Dogs.”
<http://www.doctordog.com/DrdogNewsletter/dogactivity.html>

21 January 2009. “Urbanhound”
<http://ch.urbanhound.com/newsletter/CH/newshound006.html>

21 Woehr, Jelena. Accessed: 21January 2009. “Baby, It’s Cold Outside: Exercising Dogs Through
the Winter.” < http://www.petlvr.com/blog/2008/11/baby-its-cold-outside-exercising-dogs-through
the-winter/>