15 Winter Exercise Ideas to Keep Your Dog's Tail Wagging

It is dark by five, the sidewalk is ice, and your dog is staring at you like you personally canceled summer. Winter dog exercise is harder, but a restless dog in a small house is harder still.

The good news: you do not need a gym membership or a two-hour hike. A mix of short outdoor walks and a few structured indoor games keeps most dogs fit, tired and happy until spring.

How much exercise does a dog need in winter?

Exercising your dog in winter is a challenge because of the cold and the weather, but the need does not go away when the temperature drops. What changes is where the exercise happens. On mild days, walk. On bitter ones, bring it inside, and lean on games that work the brain as well as the legs. Our post on why winter walks alone are not enough explains why the mental side matters so much.

What are the best indoor exercise games for dogs?

These seven can all be done at home, most in a hallway or living room.

1. Indoor fetch. Use a soft ball or toy and play for a set amount of time each day. Supervise so your dog stays safe on slippery floors and around furniture.
2. Indoor tug of war. A rope toy is all you need. Keep an eye on things so the game does not end with a damaged couch.
3. Stair climbing. Taking your dog up and down the stairs is a real workout for heart and legs. Start with a few flights and build up as your dog gets comfortable.
4. Treadmill training. A treadmill offers low-impact exercise once your dog is taught to use it. Start slow, increase speed and duration gradually, and always supervise.
5. Interactive toy games. Long-lasting Freezbone toys and puzzle games stimulate your dog's mind and give them a workout at the same time.

6. Scent work. Hide treats or toys and let your dog find them using their nose. It is mental and physical exercise in one, and it works in any room.
7. Indoor agility. Indoor agility equipment builds coordination, balance and overall fitness. Start slow and increase the difficulty gradually.

Where can my dog exercise indoors when it is too cold?

If your home is small or your dog needs more than a hallway can offer, look outside the house.

8. Doggy daycare playtime. A chance to play and socialize with other dogs and burn off excess energy.
9. Exercise classes. Classes such as agility training give structured physical and mental exercise and help overall fitness.
10. Indoor play areas. Pet centers with indoor play spaces let your dog run when the yard is frozen. Ask how sessions are supervised before you book.
11. Swimming. Some indoor swimming facilities allow dogs, and it is a great low-impact workout. Check beforehand whether dogs are allowed and what the rules are.

What winter activities can I do outside with my dog?

For dogs who love the cold, winter opens up a few activities summer cannot.

12. Snowshoeing. A demanding workout for both of you. Bring the right gear for you and your dog.
13. Winter hiking. A challenging physical workout. Pack boots and a warm coat for your dog as well as yourself.
14. Skijoring. Your dog pulls you on skis. It needs specialized equipment and training, so do your research before you try it.
15. Snowball fetch. Toss snowballs in a snow-covered area and let your dog chase. Supervise so the game stays safe.

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How cold is too cold to walk my dog?

It depends on the dog. Cold-weather breeds can handle brisk leashed walks below freezing. Short-coated and small dogs need a coat, and paw wax, once it drops below 32°F.

For more on keeping a housebound dog content, our guide to keeping your dog happy indoors in cold weather has plenty of ideas.

How do I settle a restless dog on a snow day?

Some days the weather wins and nobody gets far. That is when a long-lasting chew earns its place. It gives your dog's jaw something to work on and helps them settle while you get a rest of your own.

Prep two or three toys on the weekend so there is always one in the freezer when a storm rolls in. If short days are leaving your dog bored and wired, winter indoor boredom covers what changes when the walks get short.

With a bit of planning and creativity, your dog can stay active and healthy all winter.

Stay warm,
Dan from Freezbone

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