Is Your Dog Packing on Winter Weight?

You know it is cold when you open the door to let your dog out, and he turns around and goes back to bed. Even dogs that are normally high-energy balk at going outside when the mercury drops and the snow flies. But that doesn’t mean that they don’t still need to release that energy. It is also very important for sedentary dogs. While they may be perfectly content to curl up in front of the fire – or near a heat vent – they can start putting on weight that can be damaging to their health. And when your dog can’t get out for his walk, you’re not as likely to get out for your walk, and you can put on some winter weight of your own. How can you both get some physical activity and mental stimulation to get through long winter days?

First, unless there is a winter weather advisory for terrifically cold weather, you will likely not die if you go out for a half hour, especially if you are moving briskly. Some temps are definitely too cold – but don’t waste those warm 20 and 30 degree days! If you have a short haired dog, he may need a fleecy coat or a pair of boots to make the walk more tolerable for below-freezing temperatures. Both of you can bundle up, take a deep breath, and plunge into the fresh air. You could also leash your pup up while you snowshoe or cross-country ski. People do go outside in the winter.

But some days, it’s just too cold; freezing rain is pouring from the sky, snow is blustering around so you can’t see a foot in front of you. Ok, this is a good time to use the winter excuse. No, you don’t have to go. Work on tricks and training indoors. Have someone in the kitchen call your dog. When he gets there, you call him from another room. Work on begging (which works the back and leg muscles), toss a throw toy around and work on fetch.

One of the best ways to get doggie energy out is to let them play with another dog. If you have a friend with a fun-loving dog, set up a play date or offer to dog sit. Chances are the other dog could use some exercise, too. Dogs, especially puppies, need some release, and playing really works out energy.

Dogs also begin to misbehave when they are bored. If they are not getting their normal stimulation outdoors, where they can sniff, look around, and see the world, they tend to have a lot of pent-up mental energy. You can relieve this, and relieve misbehavior, by treating your dog to some brain activities. Whether it is hiding treats around the house and having him hunt, using food puzzles, or simply providing him with new chew toys and bones (chewing is a mental activity for pups), your dog will like the challenge.

Instead of your daily walk, take some time to do some indoor training and games. The rewards are a healthier dog and a happier home with less chewed-up shoes and furniture.