Take a Winter Hike
Dogs love romping around in the forest. Not only is it a change of scenery from the backyard, but it also gives your dog the chance to explore loads of new scents and views. Given all the science backing the benefits of nature on humans – from stress relief to better concentration to enhanced creativity – it only seems right to extend the benefits to your furry pal, too.
Go to an Indoor Dog Park
Get out of the house and make your way to an indoor dog park where your dog can run, jump, slide and play with other dogs to burn off his pent-up energy.
Try Skijoring
Snow days were made for skijoring, a cross between cross-country skiing and dog sledding. It’s also the “best dog sport you’ve never heard of,” according to Rover.com. Put a harness on your dog, clip into your skis and glide across the snow as your dog runs up ahead. As you can imagine, skijoring is better suited for medium to large athletic dogs.
Play Fetch
Just because there’s snow on the ground, that doesn’t mean your favorite furry pal doesn’t want to play fetch with you. Use a brightly colored toy or ball so he doesn’t spend more time hunting for it in the snow than retrieving it and returning it to you. It’s also a great opportunity for both of you to get outside and get some exercise.
Snuggle Up With a Movie
Treat your pup to a dog bone (or three) and snuggle up in front of the TV for a doggie movie marathon. A few flicks to queue up include A Dog’s Purpose, Beverly Hills Chihuahua and Air Bud: Golden Retriever. What better way to spend a cold, wintry evening than by binge-watching a handful of canine classics with your furry BFF.