Keeping Your Dog Entertained in Winter
What types of activity do dogs need?
Winter in Ireland often means keeping our pets indoors due to inclement weather. The rain seems almost constant, and while our dogs might love playing outside, it usually ends with them soaked, cold, and bringing all that mucky, wet joy indoors. After a few enthusiastic shakes, you’re left with a mess to clean up. Despite their thick coats, recent studies show that dogs feel the cold just as we do, much like how our skin is waterproof but we still wear clothes for warmth.
Being cooped up indoors can be disappointing for both you and your dog. While an active dog is a happy dog, there are plenty of ways to keep them engaged and entertained even when outdoor adventures are off the table. Here are some tips to help you keep your dog stimulated indoors during the winter months.
Dogs need both mental and physical activity to stay healthy and content. Physical activities include walking, running, and playing, while mental stimulation can come from a variety of sources. Whether it’s tracking scents, focusing during obedience training, or working out how to extract kibble from a puzzle toy, intense mental concentration can leave a dog exhausted but satisfied.
Without enough stimulation, dogs often find their own, sometimes destructive, ways to release pent-up energy, like chewing on furniture or your favourite socks. Providing plenty of mental and physical stimulation is crucial to keeping your dog happy and well-behaved.
Below we offer some ideas on how to keep your dog’s body and mind alike busy during the winter.
Teach your dog a new trick
One great way to keep your dog engaged is by teaching them a new trick. The possibilities are endless, from shaking a paw to identifying the names of their toys or even learning to crawl under a chair. A particularly fun trick is teaching them to clean up their toys. Start by showing them how to pick up a toy, carry it to a box, and drop it inside. Gradually, you can increase the challenge by scattering toys around the room and having them pick up and put away each one on command.
Another great trick is teaching your dog the names of their toys – it can be easier than it sounds and is a fantastic way to keep them mentally stimulated. Start by playing with one toy and repeatedly using its name. Encourage your dog to fetch the toy by name, rewarding them with treats or praise when they get it right. Gradually increase the difficulty by asking them to pick out the named toy from a group of different toys.
Let them watch the world outside
Dogs love watching the world go by. Create a safe space near a window where your dog can observe the outside world. If it’s safe and you’re comfortable with it, crack the window open so they can also enjoy the sounds and scents from outside.
Conduct daily obedience training sessions
Daily obedience training is excellent for mental stimulation. Spend 5 to 10 minutes each day reviewing commands your dog already knows and introducing new ones. Regular practice ensures that commands are deeply ingrained in their memory and that your dog can reliably perform them when needed.
Rotate your dog’s toys
Just like children, dogs love novelty. Make their toys more interesting by rotating them. Store some of the toys out of sight for a few days, then bring them back out while putting others away. This keeps the toys fresh and exciting for your dog.
By incorporating these activities into your routine, you can ensure that your dog stays happy, healthy, and entertained, even during the long winter months. Remember, a stimulated dog is a content dog, and a little creativity can go a long way in making sure your furry friend enjoys their time indoors.
