How to Keep Your Dog Happy and Active in Winter
Shorter days, colder mornings, and that familiar “do we really have to go out?” expression –
winter can disrupt the routine of some dogs. Walks may become shorter, energy builds up
indoors, and sudden bursts of excitement appear at the least convenient moments. The good
news is that, with a few thoughtful adjustments, winter can be just as enriching and enjoyable as
the warmer months.
Why Winter Needs a Plan
As daylight hours reduce and temperatures fall, dogs naturally move less and rest more. For
some dogs, without sufficient stimulation, this can lead to weight gain, unsettled behaviour in the
evenings, and a noticeable dip in mood. A little structure, combined with purposeful enrichment,
helps keep both body and mind engaged throughout the season.
Make Outdoor Time Count
Shorter walks do not have to mean reduced benefits. Focus on quality rather than quantity:
● Brisk Power Walks
Two shorter, purposeful walks each day can be more effective than one long, slow
outing. A slightly faster pace raises the heart rate and improves mood.
● Sniff Walks
Set aside five minutes for slow, scent-led exploration. Sniffing provides excellent mental
stimulation and is pleasantly tiring.
● Winter Play Bursts
Two or three five-minute sessions of fetch or tug at the park can be more rewarding
than standing around in the cold for extended periods.
Dress for Comfort and Safety
Comfortable dogs are more likely to enjoy their walks:
● Coats and Jumpers
Particularly important for short-haired breeds, senior dogs, and puppies. Always dry your dog thoroughly after wet outings.
● Paw Protection
Boots or paw balm help protect against ice, grit, and road salt, which can irritate paws and lead to excessive licking. Rinse paws after walks.
● Coats and Jumpers
Particularly important for short-haired breeds, senior dogs, and puppies. Always dry your dog thoroughly after wet outings.
Bring the Playground Indoors
When weather conditions are poor, indoor activity can meet some of your dog’s needs
● Tug with Structure
Short tug sessions that include clear cues for starting and stopping help burn energy
while reinforcing impulse control.
● Mental Agility Games
Find and fetch, dog safe puzzles and toys.
● Positive reinforcement training
For the right reward, your dog will love learning some new tricks. This is a great way to
stimulate your dog indoors.
Exercise the Brain (It’s More Tiring Than You Think)
Mental stimulation often results in calmer behaviour than physical exercise alone:
● Scatter Feeding
Spread food across a snuffle mat or towel to encourage natural foraging.
● Puzzle Toys
Rotate two or three toys regularly to maintain novelty.
● Scent Games
Play “find it” by hiding treats around a single, safe room.
● Short Training Sessions
Five-minute refreshers on basic cues, alongside introducing one new trick each week,
can be highly effective.
Establish a Winter Routine
Consistency helps dogs feel secure and relaxed:
● Anchor Points
Keep walking, meals, training, and rest times as predictable as possible.
● Micro-Sessions
Two short play or training sessions in the morning and afternoon are often more
beneficial than one long evening session.
● Rest Zones
Provide a warm, draught-free bed away from busy areas of the home.
Support Emotional Wellbeing
Reduced daylight can affect dogs as well as humans:
● Social Interaction
Arrange playdates with compatible dogs or short indoor scent-based meet-ups.
● One-to-One Time
Ten minutes of gentle grooming or massage can significantly improve relaxation and
bonding.
Common Winter Pitfalls to Avoid
● Overexposure
Avoid prolonged walks in freezing conditions – frostbite and hypothermia are genuine
risks.
● Slippery Surfaces
Ice increases the risk of strains and ligament injuries, so keep play controlled.
● Salt Ingestion
Rinse paws after walks and discourage licking to prevent irritation.
● Overfeeding
If activity levels decrease, adjust food portions to maintain a healthy weight.
Final Thoughts
Winter does not have to lead to restlessness or boredom. With warm, practical gear, short but
purposeful outdoor sessions, and plenty of indoor enrichment, your dog can remain fit, content,
and well-rested throughout the colder months. Keep activities brief, balance physical and mental
exercise, and maintain a consistent routine. Before long, you will notice the reward at bedtime: a
happily tired dog, curled up and snoring – whatever the weather outside.
