Don’t let the winter blues get your animal down!
There are plenty of fun things you can do to keep your pet entertained and happy indoors.
You can keep your pet stimulated and amused all winter with a little effort. And that means less trouble for both of you when cabin fever starts to set in.
In this article, we’ll give you plenty of ideas on how to keep your dog busy this winter, especially if you’re looking to keep your dog entertained indoors.
Benefits of Keeping Your Pet Busy
As the temperature outside drops, spending more time indoors cuddling up with your furry friend is easy.
However, ensuring your pet is still getting enough exercise, even during winter, is important.
There are several benefits to keeping your pet active during the colder months.
- First, it helps to keep their muscles strong and joints healthy.
- Exercise also helps to boost their immune system, making them less likely to get sick.
- Additionally, staying active can help to reduce boredom and destructive behaviours.
- So next time you’re tempted to spend all day on the couch with your pet, remember that a little bit of exercise can go a long way!
Importance of Keeping Your Pet Healthy and Exercised in Winter Months
As the weather gets colder, it’s easy to hunker down and stay indoors with our furry friends. However, keeping them healthy and exercising during the winter is important. Here are a few reasons why:
- Winter weather can be tough on pets’ paws and skin. Ice and snow can irritate their paws, and the dry air can make their skin itch. Regular exercise will help them stay warm and limber, and keeping their fur groomed will help protect their skin from the elements.
- Pets tend to gain weight in the winter. Like us, they tend to eat more and move less when cold outside. However, extra weight can strain their joints and affect their breathing. Getting them out for a walk or a run will help keep them at a healthy weight.
- Winter can be a gloomy time for pets (and their owners!). Spending time outside in the fresh air and sunshine will help lift everyone’s spirits.
Different Breeds Have Different Needs in Winter Months
Depending on the breed, some dogs take to winter weather quite well while others do not.
Breeds that were originally bred for colder climates, like Huskies, Malamutes, and Bernese Mountain Dogs, have a double-coat of fur that helps protect them from the cold. These breeds typically enjoy being outdoors in the snow and don’t mind spending long periods in sub-zero temperatures.
Other breeds, however, are not as well-suited for the winter months. Breeds with short coats or single coats, such as Chihuahuas and Whippets, can get cold easily and are more susceptible to frostbite. These breeds should be kept indoors or given a sweater or coat to wear when they go outside.
In addition, all dogs should have access to fresh water at all times, as cold weather can lead to dehydration. By understanding the needs of different breeds, dog owners can ensure that their pets are comfortable and safe during the winter.
23 Ideas to Keep Your Animal Entertained in Winter Months
As the days grow shorter and the weather gets colder, it can be easy to let your animal become bored and restless. However, there are several ways to keep your furry friend entertained throughout the winter.
By taking a little extra time to entertain your animal during the winter, you can help them stay happy and healthy all season long.
Teach Your Dog the Names of Their Toys
One way to keep your dog entertained (and mentally stimulated) is to teach them the names of their toys. Start by picking out a few of their favourite toys and giving each one a name.
For example, you could call the toy “ball” or “tug.” Then, when you are playing with your dog, use the toy’s name as you play. You may need to repeat the name several times before your dog catches on, but eventually, they will start associating the name with the toy.
Once they have learned the names of a few of their toys, you can start to mix things up by asking them to bring you a specific toy by name. Not only is this a great way to keep your dog entertained, but it can also help to improve their communication skills and overall intelligence.
Play Interactive Games
Games like fetch or tug-of-war provide mental stimulation and allow your pet to get some much-needed exercise. In addition, playing games with your pet is a great way to bond and strengthen the connection between you and your animal companion.
Play a Game of Tug of War
Not only is a game of tug of war a fun game for you and your animal, but it also provides a great workout. Next time you’re feeling chilly, grab a rope and start playing! You may find that you both end up enjoying yourselves.
Play a Game of Fetch
One fun way to keep your furry friend occupied (and burn off some pent-up energy) is to play a game of fetch. You can use your dog’s favourite toy or ball that they already enjoy playing with, and if they’re not sure what you’re doing at first, be patient and keep throwing it for them. Soon enough, they’ll catch on and run back and forth for hours.
Not only will they love the exercise, but you’ll also get a kick from watching them have so much fun.
Teach Your Dog to Clean Up His Toys
Toys are a great way to keep your animal entertained, but they can also be a source of frustration if your pet is constantly knocking them over or losing them under the furniture. One way to help your furry friend get the most out of his toys is to teach him to clean up after himself. Start by placing all of his toys in a designated spot, such as a toy box or basket. Then, whenever he finishes playing with one, encourage him to put it back in its place.
With a little patience and persistence, you’ll soon have a pet who knows how to keep his toys tidy and is always ready for some fun.
Get Some Puzzle Toys for Your Dog
Puzzle toys are a great way to mentally stimulate your dog and give them something to do when they’re bored. They will have fun figuring out how to get the treats out of the toy and get a little extra exercise as they play. Various puzzle toys are available, so you’re sure to find one your dog will love.
Teach Your Dog a New Trick
One idea is to teach your dog a new trick. Not only will this provide mental stimulation, but it will also allow you to bond with your pet. There are many different tricks you can choose from, but some simple ones to start with include “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” You and your dog can master any trick with a little patience and practice.
Play a Game of Find the Treats
One fun activity is to play a game of “find the treats”. It can be done indoors or outdoors, depending on your pet’s preferences. Hide some of your pet’s favourite treats around the house or yard to get started. Then, let your animal loose to find the hidden treasures. Not only is this activity a great way to keep your pet mentally stimulated, but it’s also a great way to bond with your furry friend.
Teach Your Dog to “Go Find” Their Toys
Most dogs love to play with toys but can get bored of the same old things after a while. If your dog seems disinterested in their toy box, it might be time to teach them a new trick. “Go find” is a great game that will keep your pup entertained while giving them some much-needed exercise.
Choose one of your dog’s toys and hide it somewhere in the house to play with. Then, tell your dog to “go find” the toy. Most dogs will be eager to start searching, and once they find the toy, they’ll be thrilled with their success. You can also make the game more challenging by hiding the toy in a different room each time.
Not only is “go find” a fun way to keep your dog entertained, but it’s also great for their mental and physical health. So next time your pup feels bored, break out the toys and teach them this new trick.
Make Your Dog Work for His Food
Dogs love a challenge, and food is a powerful motivator. If your dog is used to getting their food without working for it, winter is the perfect time to change that. Try using a food puzzle toy to give your dog his meals. These toys require your dog to use his nose and brain to figure out how to get the food out. Not only will this provide him with much needed mental stimulation, but it will also help him burn off some extra energy. You can even try hide-and-seek with your dog’s food if you’re feeling ambitious. This game is great for mental and physical exercise, and it’s a lot of fun for you and your pup.
Work on Some Clicker Training
Clicker training is a positive reinforcement technique that may help you teach your dog new skills or routines. It’s based on the principle that animals learn best when rewarded for their desired behaviour.
With clicker training, you’ll use a small hand-held device that makes a clicking sound to mark the precise moment your dog performs the desired behaviour. You can then give your dog a treat as a reward.
Clicker training may be a fantastic method to get to know your dog and keep their brains active while at the same time being entertaining!
Treat Stuffing & Treat Dispensing Toys
Being cooped up inside all winter can be downright boring if your pup is used to playing fetch in the backyard or going for long walks. But plenty of indoor activities, like food dispensing toys, can keep your four-legged friend happy and occupied.
These toys are a great way to stimulate your dog while providing a tasty reward mentally. To stuff a treat dispensing toy, simply insert your dog’s favourite treats into the toy and let them go to town. Dispensing toys come in all shapes and sizes so that you can find one perfect for your pup. And best of all, they’re a great way to bond with your furry friend during the long winter months.
Master Basic Obedience Training
One great way to keep your dog entertained during winter is to focus on mastering basic obedience training. Sit, stay, come, down, and heel are all essential commands that every good dog should know. And fortunately, they’re not too difficult to teach.
Start with short training sessions a few times a day, and be sure to use plenty of praise and treats as rewards for good behaviour. You may even want to enrol in an obedience class together; many dog trainers offer winter discounts.
With a little patience and practice, you’ll be amazed at how quickly your four-legged friend picks up the new tricks. Soon enough, you’ll have a well-mannered pup – and a lot more fun – during the cold winter months.
Play the Shell Game
One fun way to keep your dog mentally and physically active is to play the shell game. This classic game is easy to set up and can be played indoors or outdoors.
To start, you will need four cups and a small treat. Place the treat under one of the cups and then mix up the cups. Once the cups are shuffled, let your dog sniff around and choose a cup.
If your dog chooses correctly, they get the treat! You can challenge the game by using more cups or adding obstacles. The possibilities are endless!
Teach Them How to Use Talking Buttons
One way to help keep your dog entertained and engaged is to teach them how to use talking buttons. This simple activity can provide hours of fun and stimulation for your dog and is a great way to bond with your pet.
To get started, choose a few different types of buttons (such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” or “down”) and attach them to a toy or piece of clothing. Then, show your dog how to press the buttons by pressing them yourself.
As your dog becomes more familiar with the process, you can add more buttons and rewards for successful button presses.
Play a Game of Hide & Seek
Playing a hide-and-seek game is a great way to keep your pet entertained. To make the game even more fun, try hiding treats around the house for your dog to find. You can also try hiding in different places each time so that your dog never gets bored.
Play ‘Which Hand?’ Game
Start by showing your dog a treat and holding it in one hand. Then, close your fist around the treat and hold it out for your dog to sniff. Next, extend one or both hands, palms up, and let your dog choose which hand the treat is in. If your dog chooses correctly, give them the treat as a reward. Repeat the game a few times, varying the number of hands you extend and the location of the treat. This game helps to keep their mind sharp during the long winter months.
Teach Your Dog to Help With Tasks
Start by teaching simple tasks like bringing you their leash or fetching their toys. Once they’ve mastered these, you can move on to more complex commands. Not only will this provide them with much-needed stimulation, but it can also be a great bonding experience for you.
Set up a Puppy Play Date
Walking around the block isn’t as fun when snow is on the ground, and your dog might get bored just hanging out at home. One great solution is to set up a puppy play date! Invite some of your dog’s friends over for an afternoon of fun. Your dog will love playing with his buddies, and you’ll appreciate not having to go out in the cold yourself.
Make sure you have enough space for everyone to run around and get along well. With a little planning, a puppy play date is a great way to keep your dog happy and entertained all winter.
Visit an Indoor Dog Park
Short days and cold weather can make it hard to get out and about with your furry friend. However, one activity is sure to put a smile on your dog’s face – visiting an indoor dog park!
These climate controlled facilities offer a safe and fun environment for dogs of all shapes and sizes to play. Whether chasing a ball or socialising with other pups, indoor dog parks provide the perfect way to keep your dog entertained – and exercised – during the winter months.
Grooming
One idea is to take up grooming. With a little care, grooming can be a fun activity for you and your dog. Not only does this give you a chance to check for any health issues, but it’s also a great way to show your dog some extra love. Start by brushing their fur to remove any knots or tangles. Then, if they’re comfortable with it, try trimming their nails and cleaning their ears. You may even want to bathe them. Just be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo, as human products can be too harsh for their delicate skin.
Visit a Pet Store
Pet stores typically have a wide variety of toys and treats available, so you can find something to suit your pet’s preferences. You may even find some new items you and your pet can enjoy together or your furry friend’s next favourite toy. Not only will your pet have a chance to explore a new environment, but they’ll also be able to socialise with other animals.
Have a Movie Night
One great idea is to have a movie night. Start by turning off the lights and popping some popcorn. Then, find a cosy spot for your pet to curl up in front of the TV. Not only will your pet love snuggling up with you on the couch, but they’ll also appreciate the extra attention. You can even put together a basket of chew toys and snacks for them to enjoy during the show.
Final Thoughts Keeping Your Pet Busy in Winter
Keeping our pet happy and entertained can be tough as winter starts to creep in. The days are shorter, and the weather is often dreary, so how can we ensure our dogs thrive during this time of year? By playing indoor games, not only will your pet be happy, but you’ll also be giving your dog’s mind a good workout.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Keep My Dog Entertained in the Winter?
Finding ways to keep your dog entertained during the winter can be difficult. When it’s cold and snowy outside, it’s tough to get them to want to go for a walk, and they may not have as much energy as they do during other times of the year.
However, there are still plenty of ways to keep your furry friend happy and engaged. One way is to invest in fun toys they can play with indoors. Endless options are available, from Kongs stuffed with treats to puzzle toys encouraging them to think. You can also create an indoor scavenger hunt by hiding their favourite toys or treats around the house and letting them search for them. And don’t forget about simple things like taking the time to cuddle or playing fetch indoors.
By getting creative, you can help your dog enjoy the winter months just as much as any other time of year.
How Do You Keep Animals Entertained?
There are a variety of ways to keep animals entertained. For example, many pet owners provide their furry friends with toys to play with. It can help to keep them active and mentally stimulated. Some animals also enjoy having access to a yard or garden to explore and play. Others may prefer to take walks or go on hikes with their human companions.
In addition, many animals enjoy interacting with other creatures, so regular socialisation is important.
Ultimately, the best way to keep an animal entertained will vary depending on its individual needs and preferences. By taking the time to learn what your pet enjoys, you can help to ensure that it remains happy and healthy.
What Can I Give My Dog for High Energy in the Winter?
In the winter, many of us tend to hole up indoors and conserve energy. However, our dogs still need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy.
If you find that your dog has a lot of energy during the cold months, you can do a few things to help them burn off some steam.
- One option is to invest in some cold-weather gear, such as a coat or boots, and take them for a hike or walk in the snow.
- You can also look for indoor activities to get them moving, such as playing fetch in the house or setting up an obstacle course.
- And, of course, make sure to provide them with plenty of attention and affection; even just cuddling on the couch can be a great way to bond with your four-legged friend during the winter months.
You can help your dog stay active and engaged all season long by taking some simple steps.
Do Dogs Calm Down in the Winter?
No scientific evidence supports the claim that dogs calm down in the winter. However, there are a few possible explanations for why some people believe this to be true.
One theory is that the colder weather makes dogs less active, which makes them more relaxed. Another possibility is that the change in routine with the winter months (e.g., less time spent outdoors) can cause dogs to feel less stressed.