Care Corner: Cold Weather Fun for Dogs

When the weather outside gets frightful you may be inclined to want to stay inside, but your dog still needs exercise and mental stimulation in the cold, dark winter month.

We’ve got some tips for fun activities that can motivate you to bundle up and get outside with your pooch plus some creative ways for dog-friendly inside fun, too!

Why It’s Important

Keeping your dog active can help keep them happy and healthy. And while that may be harder as the cold weather sets in, there are plenty of activities that will help as long as both of you are safe, of course.

Something as simple as walking around the block and looking at holiday decorations can be lots of fun. And if you live in an area where it snows, head out and play in the snow with your dog–-there’s nothing like chasing snowballs!

If it really is too cold or icy outside, consider indoor options, such as indoor dog parks and games in your own home. For an indoor dog park, remember that the same outdoor dog park rules generally apply (check out our Care Corner post for safety tips on dog parks). While inside, try hiding treats for your dog to find or creating your own obstacle course with furniture, shipping boxes or anything else. Be creative!

Colder weather and shorter days can be challenging for dog moms and dads, but with some planning and some creative dog-friendly ideas, you can both get through the winter months and get some energy out. 

Check Out These Resources

Visit our Care Corner web page for more on how to have cold-weather indoor and outdoor fun with your dog.

What You Can Do To Help

Phinney’s believes in keeping people and their beloved pets together. We do this by extending a helping hand to pet parents in need when these emergency vet visits become too costly for some to afford. Ways you can help include donating to Phinney’s or volunteering.  And, anyone in need of help in caring for their pets can visit our Get Help page for more information.