Keeping our dogs in shape during the colder months can prove to be a difficult task. Not only is it just too cold to go on walks sometimes, it can actually be dangerous to our dog’s bare paws and the risk of slipping is much higher. So what are some of the best ways to exercise our dogs during winter?
#1 – Dog Treadmill
While treadmills might seem like something only for people, there are treadmills and other mills made specifically to keep dogs in shape. Regular dog treadmills are very similar to those for people and are a great way for your dog to get some cardio in if it’s too cold to go outside. Slat mills and carpet mills are used by many people participating in dog sport that requires the ultimate body condition. These are designed to make your dog work harder than a regular treadmill, though they are harder to find and sometimes much larger and louder. Keep in mind that while using a human treadmill can benefit smaller dogs, they are often too short for larger dogs to extend their legs fully.
#2 – Indoor Agility
Agility training doesn’t have to be done indoors, but during frozen weather it might be much safer and more enjoyable. There are a number of facilities that offer indoor agility classes for experience competitors and beginners alike. Remember that both groups of people are ultimately looking to have fun with their dogs and indoor agility is a great way to do that.
Photo by SheltieBoy via Flickr.
#3 – Skijoring & Sledding
You don’t have to have a Husky to enjoy dog sledding or skijoring. Dog sledding is fairly self-explanatory, and skijoring is a sport in which a dog or team of dogs pull their owners on skis. Both sports are great fun but do require regular conditioning and training. Either way, if you’ve got a dog that loves to run rain or shine or snow, these sports are a great opportunity for you to keep him fit and occupied during the winter.
#4 – Indoor Obedience Class
Just like indoor agility, obedience classes are held at facilities year-round. This is a great opportunity for your dog to get both mental and physical exercise and for you guys to improve your bond and share time together. Obedience is always beneficial and many owners don’t realize how fun and exciting it can be to train!
#5 – Don’t Feed More
Unfortunately, many dog owners are under the impression that it’s a good idea to increase their dogs calorie consumption during the colder months because the extra fat will keep them warm. Not only is this unnecessary, it can actually cause dangerous weight gain. Fluctuating weight is not good for our dogs and with the lack of exercise many of them get during winter, feeding them more will only lead to obesity and increased risk of injury.
Toledo, United States.
