Adventures Together: Seasonal tips

Best Winter Activities with Dogs

Whether it’s an untrodden trail of fresh snow, or frosty breath in the crisp air, winter adds a fresh layer of excitement to outdoor adventures. Some of the best winter activities with dogs who enjoy being outside can include hikes and scavenger hunts, while other activities can be more challenging. Here are some winter activities for you and your canine companion to enjoy together, as well as tips to ensure they stay safe and warm.

Top Winter Activities to Try

Winter adventures allow dogs to encounter new terrain and scents that they don’t experience during other seasons. From snow-covered trails to frozen streams, sensory stimulation keeps your dog engaged.

Plus, with shorter days, getting outdoors ensures your dog gets the exercise they need to stay healthy. Winter activities provide both a physical workout and mental stimulation that can be harder to achieve indoors.

Snow hikes or walks are among the best winter adventures with dogs. So simple, yet so invigorating — because whether you’re on a familiar trail or a new one, snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland that is endlessly exciting on four furry legs. Remember to make sure to pack extra water, as your dog will need to stay hydrated even in the cold.

Snowshoeing is an activity suited for larger parks or nature reserves. Wearing snowshoes allows you to cover snowy terrain more easily, while giving your dog plenty of space to roam and run. Plus, snowshoeing is a great low impact workout for you, and good exercise for furry friends with lots of energy.

Snowy scavenger hunts are a wintry twist on a familiar game. Among the best winter adventures with dogs that feels like play, hunting and retrieving toys in the snow challenges your dog to stay mentally sharp and engaged.

Dog skijoring is a challenging winter sport thought to be from Scandinavia. It’s a combination of cross-country skiing and dog-pulling where a person wearing a special harness is pulled on skis behind a dog. The skier provides most of the power, and taller, athletic dogs are best suited for this fun, high-energy activity.

Safety Tips for Winter Outings

Keep your dog’s safety in mind when planning your winter adventures.

• Add a Layer: Ensure your dog stays warm. Breeds with shorter coats or smaller dogs may need insulated jackets.
• Protect Their Paws: Booties protect their paws from ice and salt on sidewalks.
• Stay Vigilant: Be mindful of signs that your dog may be too cold, such as shivering, hesitancy to walk, or lifting their paws frequently.
• Avoid Frozen Water: Don’t let your dog wander onto frozen lakes or ponds, as the ice may not be strong enough to support their weight.
• Don’t Risk Slipping: Watch for slick spots that might cause your dog to slip and fall.
• Beware of Snowbanks: Never allow your dog to jump into deep piles of snow unless you know there are no sharp objects or hazards beneath.
• Drink Water: Hydrate. Even though it’s cold, your dog still needs to drink water, especially during longer activities.
• Pack Snacks: Being outdoors in the cold burns a lot of energy. Take regular breaks to ensure your dog stays comfortable and energized throughout the adventure.
• Bring a First Aid Kit: You never know when your dog might step on something sharp or need relief from ice or snow. A small first aid kit can make all the difference.

Protective Gear

Even the best winter adventures with dogs are better with the right gear. Consider insulated jackets, paw balm or booties in colder temperatures or on icy roads. Booties are typically a must-have as they protect paw pads from sharp ice and prevent them from drying out on contact with road salt. With less daylight, a reflective leash or collar is another must-have. When you’re unleashing adventure on a short winter day, you may find yourself outdoors in low-light conditions. Visibility keeps your dog safe from cars or other dangers.

When You Get Home   

Take care of your furry friend when your adventures are over. Remove any clinging snow, and fully dry your pup to help bring up their body temperature. Frostbite in dogs can be spotted almost immediately after extreme cold exposure or develop over several days. 

Part your pup’s fur to make sure their skin doesn’t have persistent cold spots. Their skin should feel evenly warm with a healthy color. Look for any blisters, cracks or swelling on paw pads that might be causing discomfort.  

Let your dog warm up indoors by providing a cozy blanket or bed to snuggle in. Also, offer them fresh water and a nutritious meal to replenish any energy spent during their adventure. Black Gold Original Formula 26/18 will help restore endurance and stamina with its healthy balance of protein, fats and carbohydrates for active dogs.

Finally, Embrace the Cold

It’s tempting to stay in for a long winter’s nap, but the best winter adventures with dogs are incredibly rewarding. With the right gear and a few safety precautions, you and your adventure buddy can fully enjoy all that the season has to offer. 

Bundle up, leash up, and head outside to make the most of the cold months ahead!

Winter weather changes your dog’s energy and nutritional needs. Learn how to adjust by checking out our article on winter nutrition here: Cold Weather Nutrition for Dogs.