Updated to add dog treat recipe (pumpkin & peanut butter)
Looking for some fun activities to enjoy the winter weather with your furry friend? Look no further! From snowball fetch and sledding to indoor picnics and homemade treats, there are plenty of ways to have fun with your dog this winter. And don't forget about all the great outdoor activities you can do together like hiking and exploring the playground. So bundle up and get ready for some fun in the snow with your four-legged friend.
Six Winter Activities to Get You and Your Dog Moving This Winter!
Winter does not have to mean the end of outdoor fun! There are still plenty of fun activities you can do outside, even during the colder months. Check out our breakdown of these six exciting ways to enjoy the great outdoors during the winter, and why they are such great options. The cold doesn't keep you from the great outdoors, it just has you seeing it in a different way.
Take a Walk or Hike in the Snow
Just like Spring, Summer, and Fall, one of our favorite winter activities with our dogs is hiking! Hiking with your dog in the snow can be a great way to enjoy the winter season. Just be sure to take some basic precautions to keep you and your pup safe and healthy during colder weather. Here are a few tips for hiking with your dog in the snow:
Invest in some quality cold weather gear for your dog. A good coat, hoodie, or sweater will help keep your dog warm, while boots or booties can protect their feet from the cold and ice.
Start slow when first hitting the trails in the snow. Let your dog get used to walking on slippery surfaces before increasing the pace or distance of your hike.
Be aware of signs of hypothermia or frostbite in your dog. If your dog starts shivering, has trouble walking, or seems lethargic, it's time to head back indoors.
Keep an eye out for icy spots on the trail. Both you and your dog can slip and fall on ice, so it's important to be cautious when hiking in snowy conditions.
Lastly, don't forget the basics! Bring plenty of water and snacks for both you and your pup, as well as a first aid kit in case of any emergencies.
With a little preparation, hiking with your dog in the snow can be a great way to enjoy the winter season together.
Fetch the Snowball
There's nothing quite like playing fetch with your dog. Whether you're at the park or in your own backyard, it's a great way to bond with your furry friend and get some exercise. And, let's be honest, it's just plain fun. When there’s fresh snow on the ground, try tossing a snowball or grab some socks and fill them up with snow, then let your pup try to catch them.
Of course, not all dogs are natural fetchers. Some need a little help (and patience) to learn the ropes. But once they catch on, there's no stopping them. So if you're ready to give fetch a try, here are a few tips to get you started.
First, choose the right toy. A Frisbee is a classic choice, but any type of ball or flying disc will do. Just make sure it's durable enough to stand up to some vigorous fetching. Or in the winter, a good old fashioned snowball!
Once you have your toy, it's time to get your dog's attention. wave the toy around, call their name, and make it clear that you're ready to play. If they seem interested, ask them to sit or lie down, then toss the toy a short distance away.
As they go to fetch it, praise them enthusiastically. And when they bring it back to you, be sure to give them lots of love and treats. With a little practice, they'll be fetching like a pro in no time.
Indoor Dog Park
If you're looking for a fun-filled activity to do with your dog this winter, why not check out an indoor dog playground? These facilities provide a safe and stimulating environment for your pooch to play in, and are perfect for those days when the weather outside is less than ideal.
Indoor dog playgrounds typically feature a variety of obstacles and toys for your dog to enjoy, and many also offer classes and other activities that can help keep your pup mentally and physically stimulated. If you're worried about your dog getting cabin fever this winter, an indoor dog playground is definitely worth checking out!
Discover the thrilling world of agility courses! Unleash your dog's potential with our Fetch The Sun Adventure Guide, brimming with invaluable tips, amazing benefits, and expert preparations for dog agility.
Dog Café
Indoor dog cafes are the perfect place to take your pup on a cold winter day. Most cafes have plenty of space for your dog to run and play, and they often have special winter-themed activities like snow ball fights or doggy ice skating. Plus, you can warm up with a cup of hot coffee or cocoa while your dog enjoys a tasty treat.
Snow Sledding
This is a great activity for high-energy dogs. If you don’t have a sled, you can use a toboggan or even a baby stroller. Just make sure you’re careful on the hill and keep an eye on your pup at all times. Here are a few tips to get started:
Choose the right sled
Make sure your dog is properly outfitted with warm dog clothes
Start off very slow and not very high on the hill
Let the dog get the feel for the sled
If you sense any signs of fear, back off and take a break
Have fun
Make homemade dog treats
Making homemade dog treats is a great way to show your furry friend some extra love during the winter months. Not only are homemade treats typically healthier than store-bought varieties, but they can also be tailored to your pup's specific dietary needs and preferences. Here’s a short list of some of our favorite recipes:
There are tons of recipes online, so you can find something that suits your pup’s taste buds.
Enjoy Some Quality Time with Your Dog This Winter
With a little creativity, you and your pup can have a blast this winter. From indoor picnics and homemade dog treats, to going to a dog cafe or playground, there are endless possibilities for fun. And don't forget about hiking! Winter is a great time to explore the outdoors with your furry friend. Just make sure you take precautions in cold weather and always keep an eye on your four-legged friend.
