Puzzle and enrichment toys can be our best friends this time of year. While these toys do not replace walks, on the days where we can’t get outside they can be as mentally exhausting as a walk. I love using lick mats with things like plain pumpkin, plain greek yogurt or canned food. Pop these in the freezer for an extra challenge, these can keep the pups busy for 30-45 minutes. Puzzles, snuffle mats, and treat dispensing toys are also great to have on hand. Always keep an eye out for frustration, these activities should be mentally stimulating and calming and may not be for every dog. 

One of Felicity’s favorite winter games is what we call “Find It”. We hide freeze dried food throughout the house and tell her to “find it”. Felicity knows that “find it” means she needs to use her nose. There are lots of ways to incorporate scent games like this so get creative with it! We have also played hide and seek, where I will hide somewhere in the house and Felicity will have to use her nose to find me. Don’t leave out the kitties on this one, hide treats in their favorite spots, like cat trees, window sills, bookshelves, wherever they’re likely to jump for a treat. 

Natural chews are not only great for dental health but they are awesome boredom busters as well. Dogs need to chew, if they’re not given the correct things to chew on, they may chew on the wrong things, like your dining room table. Chewing is relaxing and calming. After a 30 minute chew session, most dogs are ready for a nap. Just be mindful of the ingredients in these chews. I recommend single ingredient chews and never anything containing rawhide. 

Don’t keep your pups cooped up just because you don’t enjoy the cold. Put on your warm boots, insulated pants, winter jacket, hat and gloves and take those pups outside! If your dog gets cold, you’ll want a winter jacket for them and  maybe some boots or paw wax. Depending on your dog, you may not be able to spend as long outside, but you can at least spend 15-30 minutes at a time outside on most days. And for those of you with a dog that loves the cold and snow, I sure hope you do too, because they’re not going to want to go back inside! 

Find ways to keep your dogs entertained and happy. Find new games, new toys and new treats. If you’re creative enough you can easily find ways to make games out of things you already have in your house. And don’t forget, while it may be cold outside for us, our dogs still need exercise and fresh air. So bundle up and get outside!