[PET CORNER]

Indoor Activities to Keep Your Dog Entertained During the Winter Months

by Melissa Magliocco

Not a fan of those bitter cold days? Me either and neither is my pup. But he still needs to release his energy so that he’s not driving me bananas! There are some days that are just too cold to venture outside. Those sub-zero temperatures for weeks at a time can be taxing on you and your beloved pooch to find entertaining activities to do together. The following list of indoor activities can provide some relief from the boredom of being cooped up in the house:

1. Take your dog to agility or obedience classes. With several K-9 Training Facilities all over the country, there are many options for obedience training or agility classes. Local pet stores usually offer training classes, as well. A quick Google search will provide you with a list of classes in your area.
2. Teach a new trick. Training can be completed at home, as well. YouTube is a great resource to find various dog tricks to teach your dog. Pick one you want to work on, grab your pups’ favorite bag of treats, and practice.
3. Walk around the pet store. A visit to the store can be extremely stimulating for your dog. They will encounter many new scents that will keep them nose-to-the-ground from the moment they walk through the door. They will be happy to sniff and check everything out. Some hardware stores allow pets, too. Be sure to check the store’s website before bringing them.
4. Go for a ride in the car. Getting out for a drive is a perfect way to entertain your dog for a bit, even if it’s just a quick trip to get a cup of joe from the coffee shop drive-thru. Never leave your dog in the car unattended, especially when the temperatures are frigid.
5. Doggie playdates. Invite a friend and their dog over for a play date. Your dog will enjoy playing with their friend while you enjoy chatting with yours. Be sure to slowly introduce the dogs before turning them loose to play.
6. Walk on a treadmill. Some dogs have more energy than others and require several long walks during the day. You can invest in a treadmill to give your do
7. Interactive stimulation games. There are several games you can play with your dog to offer them the needed stimulation to keep them from becoming bored.
• Hide and Seek: This game should be played with two or more people. Person One should wait with the dog while Person Two hides. Person Two can call for the pup. After the dog finds Person Two, reward the dog with a small treat and play again. This time Person One can hide.
• Tug of War: Using a long rope or toy, have your pup hold one end in his mouth while you hold the other end in your hand. Move it around, tug, and pull. Allow your dog to try and pry the rope from your hand.
• Three-Cup Game: With your dog watching, place a treat under one of three cups. Mix the cups up then have your pup try to uncover the treat.
• Treasure Hunt: Hide several treats or favorite toys around your house. See how many your dog can sniff out.
• Fetch up and down the stairs: Playing fetch with your dog up and down the stairs is a great way to run your dog’s energy out and
get them some needed winter exercise. Throw your dog’s favorite toy down the stairs. Allow them to retrieve it and call them back up to do it again. Some dogs will even enjoy chasing a laser pointer up and down the stairs.
• Obstacle course: Set up an obstacle course for your dog to complete. Use tunnels to run through, pillows to jump over, and chairs to weave between.
8. Puzzle toys. Local pet stores sell a plethora of puzzle toys that will provide your dog with lots of stimulation while trying to get to their favorite treat. There are many different kinds of puzzle toys. Try to rotate through various ones so your pup doesn’t fully master the toy right away.
9. Purchase or make a snuffle mat. Like puzzle toys, these mats make it challenging and entertaining for your dog to find their treats. You can also use it to hide their food, promoting slower eating.
10. Cuddle up and take a nap.There is nothing wrong with snuggling up on the couch under a blanket and bingewatching your favorite Netflix show with your favorite furry friend snoozing by your side.
Hopefully, this list will provide you with many opportunities to entertain your dog during these icy cold months. Stay warm!