Just because the fluffies enjoy plenty of outside time in this weather, doesn’t mean that I do. I am a summer loving girl and count down the days until the warm weather returns again. Unfortunately, Montana likes to keep the warm months to a minimum.
If there’s too much snow, too much wind, or the cold just doesn’t agree with your dog, here’s some indoor activities for dogs to keep them stimulated in the winter.
Training
Pyrs aren’t trick dogs, but that doesn’t mean we can’t work on training. Rather than focusing on adorable tricks, we spend a lot of time on impulse control. Training requires a lot of mental attention which can be more exhausting than physical activity. Rubicon Days and ZoePhee are great examples of bonding with your dog through trick training.
Interactive Toys
Do you have a puzzle toy or treat dispenser? The fluffies love when I add some treats to their Kong Wobbler
or IQ Treat Ball
. Mauja will knock the ball around to get the treats and Atka will follow behind to gobble up the treats she misses. Teamwork. Adding peanut butter, yogurt, wet food, or your dog’s favorite treat to a Kong Genius
and popping it in the freezer is also a great time-consuming activity.
Agility
Have a little extra space in your living room? Many agility pieces can be easily broken down and stored when not in use. Look into a basic agility kit
or head to your local hardware store to create your own!
Hide and Seek
Does your dog need to brush up on his recall? Why not make it a fun game! Put your dog in a sit/stay while you hide somewhere in your house (keep in mind your dog’s skill level). Call your dog and praise lavishly when he finds you!
Find It
This is another fun game that we used to play with Kaeto all the time. Hide a strong smelling treat and encourage your dog to use his nose to find it. Kaeto loved searching for hot dogs!
Go on an Outing
I like to take the fluffies to stores that allow pets in the winter. It gets them out of the house and we can work on training and improve socialization. Make a stop at Starbucks for a puppuccino as an added treat!
Cuddle
There’s nothing better than some cuddle time with your favorite pooch. Curl up on the couch and take a nap after all your indoor fun!
How do you keep your dog entertained during the winter months?
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