Surviving a Deep Freeze!
With the winter months upon us we may need to become more creative when training our dogs, especially when the temperature drops below zero. While some breeds may thrive in these arctic conditions, for others we will need to consider alternative options when the weather is cold to keep our pets safe. As we all know, our dogs need daily training that includes mental and physical exercise, even when it’s chilly outside. So, here are a few ideas on how to keep your pup engaged during colder weather.
First, if you are taking your dog outside, make sure that your canine is safe from the elements. Ensure that your dog’s paws are protected with boots or a product like Musher’s Secret. Musher’s Secret will protect your dog’s paws from a variety of winter conditions, including salt residue, ice melt, ice build up, snowballing, and cold temperatures. Additionally, for those that have pups with fine or long fur that clumps in the snow, try spraying the areas of your dog that are usually affected (paws, belly, chest, etc.) with cooking spray before you head out. The oil will prevent the snow from sticking to the fur and there will be less of the painful clumping that those puppies often experience. Finally, keep your pal warm with a jacket that is the appropriate size, weight, and composition. It is also important to note, that even with all these protective measures in place, you may need to reduce the overall amount of time that you are outside with your dog. Consider shortening the duration of each exposure, try to go outside when it is the warmest, and perhaps move some training inside.
Indoor training can be extremely beneficial as it often demands both mental and physical training to take place simultaneously. For example, try a game of Hide & Seek in your house. Place your pooch in one area of the house, go hide in another area of the house, and then have them try to find you. Don’t forget to praise them when they do it successfully. This game teaches them to “wait” until they are called and encourages them to use their ears and nose to find you.
Another great way to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated at home is to give them a puzzle toy. These toys require your dog to use their problem solving skills to try and obtain an (often tasty) reward. There is a wide variety of puzzle toys that offer an assortment of challenges, all of which can occupy dogs for hours.
When you need a change of scenery, try taking your mutt for a drive. Going for a drive, or better yet, going shopping with your dog can be mentally exhausting, for you and the dog! There are several retail stores in the area that allow dogs to accompany you while you shop, and we encourage you to support them. These dog friendly establishments are a great way to socialize your canine in a controlled environment, practice your dog’s manners while there are lots of distractions, and introduce your puppy to new situations. Just don’t leave your pup in the car when it’s cold.
There are so many indoor training opportunities to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated over the winter months. Dogzies provides a variety of essentials products at their online store to enrich your dog’s training.
* Winter Safety:
- Musher’s Secret
- Ruffwear or Canine Equipment Boots
- Great White North or Ruffwear Coat
* Puzzle Toys:
- Bumpy Treat Ball
- Buster Ball/Cube
- Busy Buddy Waggle
- PetSafe Ninja Star
- Bully Grip
* Treats
- Sardines
- Bully Sticks
- Variety of peanut/fish/gluten free/duck/rabbit/etc. treats
Your dog won’t even notice that it’s cold outside when they’re all bundled up in their winter gear, searching to find you in your house, entertained with a puzzle toy, or out shopping with you for the afternoon! Enjoy the last few weeks of winter with your hound, spring will be here soon!
