AKC is a participant in affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to akc.org. If you purchase a product through this article, we may receive a portion of the sale.
If you and your dog are getting a little weary of winter, there are still plenty of seasonal activities to liven up your days. After all, your dog needs activity and stimulation, regardless of the weather, and it’s good for you, too!
Engaging in outdoor activities is a great way to ward off the winter blues and ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Here are some fun ways to enjoy the season with your dog.
Skijoring
Skijoring, a popular Scandinavian sport, has caught on in the U.S. It translates to “ski-driving” and combines cross-country skiing with some of the same skills as dog mushing. It requires one or two dogs that weigh over 35 pounds and enjoy pulling, cross-country skis and poles, a pulling harness for your dog, a skijoring belt, and a towline. Basically, you’re cross-country skiing with your dog leading the way.
Although you might think it’s a sport meant only for northern dog breeds like Siberian Huskies, almost any dog that loves running, weighs enough, and is tall enough to negotiate snow makes a great skijoring partner.
Skijoring is becoming so popular that there are even competitions, with regional and national championships. So whether you’re longing for some winter competition or just love the quiet and exhilaration of skiing a fresh trail through snow, skijoring is wonderful exercise and a great bonding opportunity for both of you.
Kicksledding
If you and your dog are not quite ready for the Iditarod but love the idea of mushing, try kicksledding. Developed in Scandinavia as a way to navigate icy streets, kicksledding requires a sled, a harness for your dog, and a towline.
It’s not meant for deep snow and works best on flat, slick surfaces or packed snow. It also requires that your dog learn some kicksledding cues, since they must respond to your voice commands. While not quite as complicated or taxing as mushing, be prepared for a pretty vigorous workout.
Snowshoeing
For a gentler winter workout, try snowshoeing with your dog. All you need are snowshoes, a belt, a harness, and a towline. Depending on how adventurous you’re feeling and how much exercise your dog can handle, a snowshoe outing can be as leisurely as gliding through familiar trails and parks or as rigorous as making your way through deep powder.
Canicross
You don’t need snow to enjoy winter activities with your dog. Canicross is cross-country running, but as a team, with your dog in the lead. Canicross requires minimal equipment. Your dog will need a well-fitting harness that allows them to move freely and run. You’ll need a waist belt and a bungee line.
As in kicksledding and mushing, the human is the driver, issuing voice commands, so your dog should know and respond to commands. Your choice of locale is virtually unlimited, from forest trails to local parks to the beach or the mountains. It’s best to vary the terrain between harder and softer ground since that will be easier on muscles for both of you. Although working breeds tend to be most popular for Canicross, any dog that likes to run and is in good shape can make a great teammate.
Scavenger Hunts
Who says you have to venture away from home to have outdoor adventures with your dog? How about a scavenger hunt in your own backyard?
Make little snow mounds or dig out shallow holes in the snow to hide treats and toys. Then have your dog use their nose (and eyes) to find them. Not only will they get exercise, but they’ll also have to use tracking and problem-solving skills to find the prizes.
Before you embark on any adventures with your dog, assess whether it’s appropriate for their age, size, abilities, and general health. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. Once you’re confident that you’re both up for it, get out there and have some fun!
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.