Fun Snow Games To Play With My Dog Outside
Most dogs love the outdoor activities: running around, playing with toys, and chasing birds are just a few of the activities that dogs LOVE to partake in. However, when it gets to the Winter time and snow starts to fall, these activities are a little harder to do. But, there are a ton of fun snow games that you can play with your dog instead!
When it snows, this can add a whole new element to your dog’s play time routine. Today we’re going to get creative by thinking of a few innovative games that you can play with your dog in the Winter season.
Snowball Fights
It’s no secret that dogs love to chase things. Having a snowball fight with your dog is a great way to work on your throwing arm, while getting your dog some exercise.
Either your dog will chase the snowballs, or even chase you – which is endless fun for both you and your pup. When making your snowballs, just be careful to use soft snow free of debris, and not to pack them too tight. We don’t want any injuries happening to anybody!
Once you get your mound of snowballs, gently toss them at their dog and watch he or she go crazy! A great variation of this game is to make a little harder packed snowballs, and then toss them high in the air. Your dog will love jumping to try to catch these.
Hide-N-Go-Seek
Dogs love to bury things and then dig them up again. So why not use the snow to recreate this little game? Take your dog’s favorite toy, treat, or ball and hide them in the snow. Then you can tell them to go find them! This game is great because it exercises both your dog’s mind and their physical being.
For dogs that aren’t super great at seeking, you can give them hints on where to look to make the game even more enjoyable. However, keep track of everything you’re hiding, as you don’t want it to get lost until the Spring.
It’s not always a good idea to play this game while the snow is falling, either. This can make it increasingly difficult for your dog to seek.
Winter Hiking
Hiking is one of the best activities to do with your dog, even when it isn’t cold or snowing outside. However, hiking in the snow can add a new challenge to your dog’s regular exercise routine, as well as your own.
It’s safe to say that trekking in the snow can be much more difficult than regular ground. So, you and your dog will have to use extra strength and in turn – burn more calories! Dogs love to experience new places and smells, and hiking is one of the best way to do this.
Plus, there are a ton of hiking trails that are absolutely beautiful in the Winter. Consult Google or the newspaper for some breathtaking hiking trail hotspots.
Whatever You Choose, Safety Is Key!
Playing with your pup in the Winter and in the snow can be lots of fun – but there are some dangers to it as well. Just like humans, dogs are susceptible to conditions such as hypothermia or frostbite. This is why it’s so important to keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior and physical condition when out in the snow. If it seems like your dog is getting too cold, don’t be afraid to take the playtime inside. You and your dog’s safety is always #1 priority!
So with that, have a fun-filled, playful Winter – just make sure you and your dog are both staying healthy and safe.