When the snow piles high, it can be hard for you and your furry soldier to conduct operations outside. It can also be hard to stay active and fit, especially with all the calories consumed during the holidays. At Scoop Soldiers, we want every pet to stay physically and mentally stimulated to ensure their overall well-being, no matter the season. In this blog post, our pet waste removal team discusses the tactics you can employ to keep your small army active during the colder months. Keep reading to learn more about winter dog care.
Dogs actually need more calories during winter — 70 to 100 more calories than in other seasons. However, the lack of movement and tendency to eat more during holidays makes dogs more prone to weight gain and the associated risks.
Indoor activities are essential to counteract these effects. When your furry friend stays active, they can burn off the excess calories and keep muscles working. Nobody wants a lethargic soldier in battle!
Apart from physical health, physical activity helps combat boredom. We all know how bored dogs can wreak havoc on your sofa or shoes! When the animals have other missions in mind, they are less prone to destructive behavior.
Best of all, doing indoor activities with your furry friend can strengthen your relationship. These close bonds create the loyalty that wins any battle.
Here are some of our most recommended indoor activities during winter.
Dogs relieve boredom through destructive behavior and clingy attitudes. Winter is a particularly notorious time because your pet can’t socialize with other dogs, cooped up inside due to the weather. Here are some things you can try to keep your pet entertained in the barracks.
Winter is the best time to reinforce obedience or teach fun new tricks. Your interactions should be positive and rewarding, focusing on building trust and encouraging good behavior.
On the internet, you can find many innovative toys and feeders that work like puzzles, working only when certain conditions are met, like when your dog pushes a specific lever or button. These items keep your dog entertained and mentally sharp.
Scent Games
Hiding treats around the house keeps your dog on alert. Watch them as they let their noses lead the way, stimulating their sense of smell and making them reconnect to their true nature.
Let’s face it: some dogs get the zoomies more than others. If your furry companion is high-energy and can’t sit still, here are a few things you can try.
Don’t let harm get in the way of fun! Here are some things to make the battleground less hazardous for your soldiers.
Remove breakable items and other hazards on the floor. These include delicate electronics, sharp objects, and wires that may snag your dog while they’re running.
These items prevent accidents on slippery floors. Make sure to add these mats on stairs, tiles, and outdoor areas that may get wet when snow melts.
Soldiers need their commanders to look after them. Make sure to always monitor your dog during active games to avoid injury. If something does happen, you can immediately come to the rescue and treat minor issues.
Keeping your dog active during winter helps stimulate their mind and body during the colder months. With the indoor activities we outlined above, you can keep your furry companions active. You can also experiment with other games and activities to find out what your dog prefers.
It’s important to keep your home clean while enjoying indoor play, too! Let Scoop Soldiers help with professional pet waste removal services so you can focus on quality time with your pup.