6 Ways To Keep Your Dog Entertained This Winter

Winter is here and for most of us that means below freezing temperatures, icy conditions, and days where it feels like the sun only comes out for an hour before setting again. Forcing myself to leave the house during the winter is a dreaded task every single year, but that doesn’t mean our furry friends should suffer with us! A bored dog is a destructive dog, so today I’m sharing with you 6 ways to keep your dog entertained (and out of trouble) in the winter. 

Teach A New Trick

From sitting pretty to doing back flips, there are tons of different tricks your dog can learn! Keep your dog entertained, and active, this winter by teaching them a new skill that they can show off next time they get with their friends for a puppy play date. 

To get you started, here’s a list of 100 tricks you can teach your pup. 

The next time you notice Fido seems a little bored, break out his favorite treat and teach him a trick that’s sure to impress all of his furry friends!

Get A Puzzle Toy

Puzzle toys are bound to keep even the smartest dogs entertained. There are plenty of puzzle toy options out there, from treat dispensing toys to plush hide and seek toys. 

You can also find DIYs online to create your own puzzle toy with objects you most likely already have at home! 

Put Them In Doggy Daycare

Daycare is a great option for dogs who need some stimulation and to get out of the house during the colder months. Not only does daycare allow your pup to make some new dog and human friends, but it also allows them to get exercise and works to improve their social skills! 

Daycare is a great option for dog moms and dads who work outside of the home as it gives your pooch a safe place to go during the day. 

Find A Long Lasting Treat

Most dogs LOVE treats. Keep your pup entertained by giving them a treat that will last them for hours! My personal favorite treat option for keeping Luna entertained is bully sticks. While they’re on the pricier side, the right bully stick will last for hours and keep your dog entertained long enough to allow you to get some work done. 

Another great option is a stuffed Kong! There are plenty of recipe ideas online for a stuffed Kong that any dog will drool over. You can freeze the Kong to keep them busy even longer!

Buy A New Toy

What dog doesn’t love to receive a new toy? Buying your pup a new toy will give them plenty of excitement during the long winter months! I love to shop for dog toys at stores such as TJ Maxx or Home Goods, they always have plenty of options for much cheaper prices than the big name pet stores. Other great options for purchasing toys is chewy.com or amazon.com! 

Buying a variety of different toys for your dog will give them plenty to do during the day and keep them from turning your shoes and furniture into their own personal chew toys!

Take Them Outside

Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean we should keep our dogs cooped up for months. For smaller and shorter haired dogs you can purchase coats and boots to keep them warm while outdoors during the winter season. Believe it or not, most bigger and fluffier dogs enjoy the cold! So bundle up and take your pup outside for some playtime in the snow and the opportunity to get some fresh air.