Winter is fast rolling in, bringing with it darker, longer evenings, colder weather and a stubborn impracticality when it comes to spending very long outside. While this may not be too bothersome for some people, for canine pet parents, winter can make it trickier to ensure that your furry friend gets the exercise that is so vital for his health and wellbeing.
However, physical activity in winter isn’t impossible. To help you get around the chill and unpredictable weather, here are our winter exercise tips for dogs.
Play games
Many owners underestimate the exercise that your dog gets from simple games such as fetch and hide and seek. Rushing around inside your home uses a surprising amount of energy, and if you are playing hide and seek, your pet is also getting a great deal of mental stimulation as she tries to find you. Even playing games for an hour each day will give your furbaby plenty of exercises.
Use a treadmill
It may surprise you to know that an increasing number of dog owners are now encouraging their pets to use a treadmill when the weather makes it impractical to head outdoors. There are even treadmills designed just with canines in mind! However, whether you are hoping to get your dog on a human or canine treadmill, specific precautions will need to be made to keep him safe. This includes a reasonable introductory period so that your dog can feel comfortable with how it works.
Start off stood in front of the treadmill with a treat, with your dog walking on it on a very slow speed. Then over the course of a few days, you can gradually increase the speed so that he is moving a little faster and for a little longer. As your pet gets used to the action of the treadmill, you can build up to him walking on it for the same amount of time as your usual outdoor walkies.
Indoor classes
If you ask around your local area, or speak to your veterinarian, you may find that there are indoor agility or swimming classes nearby. These provide an excellent opportunity for controlled socialization with your pet, and activities such as swimming or flyball are excellent physical endeavors that help ensure your dog gets the exercise that he needs to keep him fit and healthy.
Stair climbing
Another great physical activity that you can do in your own home is stair climbing. It won’t hold your dog’s interest for long, but a couple of short bursts of this game is a great exercise for your furry best pal. Throw his favorite toy to the top of the stairs and encourage him to chase after it. Once he has it, use recall to get him to bring it back down to you. Then repeat! Your furbaby will be feeling the burn in no time!
Doga
Dog yoga – known as doga – has gained in popularity in the last few years. Although not intense exercise, it is a wonderful way for you and your dog to stretch and relax together. It is also considered to help strengthen the bond between dog and owner. Ask around to see if there are any doga classes local to where you live.
Brave the weather anyway!
Wrap up warm and face the weather – some intense physical fun such as ‘dog tag’ will get both you and your furball moving quickly, which will help to keep you warm. If you have snow, it provides an extra work out for you both, as moving through it is much harder than standard walking or running. A quick blitz of interval exercise outside is excellent for your dog’s heart, lungs and muscle tone – and you will benefit too!
For more information about how you can make your dog fit even during winter, contact Dr. Gregg J. Gormley today.
