Dogs are great companions that can easily become part of the family, but they’re also a lot of fun to spend time with. Cold-weather activities are an excellent way to spend time with your best friend, and winter is no exception. However, don’t let the cold weather keep you from taking your pup for a hike, skiing, or snowshoeing. Follow our tips for dog-friendly winter activities below.
Winter walk
One of the best activities for winter fun is going on a long walk in the country with your dog. During this time, you can make new discoveries and stretch your legs while exploring a new environment. Dogs generally enjoy the outdoors, so they’ll be happy to accompany you on these adventures. More importantly, fresh air helps your dog’s respiratory system and blood flow, which is especially beneficial during cold weather. Take your dog on a walk through nature, or show them how exciting winter can be. Winter is the perfect time to go sledding with your pup and see what fun awaits you!
Have a Pet Portrait Session
Cute pets are all the rage and pet portrait sessions are an amazing way to connect with your favorite furry family member. Pet portrait sessions can be relaxing for both you and your dog, as you snap away at their best expression. Winter is a beautiful time of year to take photos of your furbabies, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to have gorgeous photos taken!
Make Homemade Dog Treats
Winter and baking just go together, so why not plan a baking day with your pooch pal?
Homemade dog snacks are a great way to bond with your dog and make some great new flavors for both of you. There are lots of different recipes you can try, so why not get creative? But no need to worry your pup will be left out of the loop – these homemade treats are just as tasty and fun to make as they are to chow down on. Also, you can put them in puzzle toys. The only thing better than having a great meal is when you can share it together.
Create Some Paw Art
Pets are more than just cute creatures and unconditional companions. They’re also talented artists! Give your dog a chance to express their inner painter with some paw painting. All you need for your dog’s masterpiece are some nontoxic washable paints and a large piece of paper. Dip your dog’s paws in the paint and then encourage them to walk across the paper making art as they go. And when you’re satisfied with the results, finish off by giving your dog an outdoor bath.
Unleash Your Pup’s Inner Artist
Your dog not only needs play time, he also needs to let his creative juices flow. Unleash your pup’s inner artist with a canine-friendly canvas and some colorful paints. Once your dog is done creating his masterpiece, clean his paws thoroughly so that they don’t stick to the paint or leave paw prints on the new sofa.
Go to an Indoor Dog Park
Indoor dog parks are a great way to keep your dog healthy, happy, and active. As far as we’re concerned, getting out of the house once in a while is good for you and your pup. So if you can’t always take him on regular walks, bring him to an indoor dog park instead where he can run around with other dogs and play without the stress of bad weather or heavy traffic.
Try Scent Work
Scents can be so mysterious. And they’re also mysterious to dogs—a dog’s sense of smell is 100,000 times stronger than ours. What if we could harness that talent and channel, it toward solving puzzles and problem-solving? Scent work is my favorite way to hone my dog’s skills! It’s also a great way for me to take mental breaks during those long days when it seems like she never stops thinking about things. I just need a few things: some essential oils, jars, cotton swabs, etc. Then with a few simple lessons starting in the backyard or the park, you can start playing scent games! For an informal version of the game, hide treats around your yard or sprinkle kibble in the lawn and let your dog sniff for the goodies!
Have a Winter Puppy Party
Your dog will be more than happy to bring their friends over for some fun in the snow, which is a chance for your pup and other dogs to socialize. This would also be a great opportunity to host a used toy exchange: After everyone brings their dog’s old toys, they can play with the new ones they’ve received!
Try Skijoring
Skijoring is a winter sport in which you hook your skis into the harness of your dog, who then pulls you around with her natural energy and speed. You attach a handle to your ski poles so they don’t fly away while you sprint across the snow. Skijoring can help build a strong bond between you and your dog, as it’s fun for both of you to be out on the trail together!
Snuggle Up With a Sniffer App
Snuggle up with your dog, cat, or one of many other kinds of animals and download Sniffer app. When you need comfort and companionship, this app will be there for you.
Give your pup a treat, then lay down on the couch with your phone so the two of you can browse through hundreds of dog profiles to find the perfect match for your pup. This app connects pet owners and their four-legged friends in a way like never before. Sniffer app is guaranteed to create memories that will last a lifetime.
