How to exercise your dog in bad weather
We’re seeing some signs of better weather, but those Spring showers are never far away! Your pooch still needs exercise and stimulation even when it’s raining cats and dogs outside. Here are our tips to help you exercise your dog in bad weather.
Use your garden
If it’s a thoroughly wet day or too cold to go for a walk, staying inside is best. However, you can make the most of a break in the showers by heading into the garden, where you can get inside quickly if you need to. Try playing with different toys, such as a softer ball you can throw outside and inside without risking any breakages. It’s generally a good idea to vary your doggo’s toys as it stops them from getting bored.
All PetStay dog carers have secure gardens where your dog can enjoy some fresh air and exercise during their stay.
Revisit your training
If you’re training a new puppy, practice new techniques regularly to help them sink in. You can practice a lot of the basics and some new tricks inside in bad weather. Practice sitting, rolling over or asking your pup to give you their paw. You could encourage them to weave through your legs if you have the space. Activity toys can be great for introducing some variety and improving your dog’s concentration no matter how old they are, but remember to choose toys suitable for your pooch’s age and activity level.
Create an obstacle course
If you have a large living room or other indoor space, an obstacle course can be great fun for you and your dog. You can use furniture to create an entertaining course, encouraging your doggo to duck underneath tables, jump over chairs, or circle them. Blankets and cushions can make tunnels and slaloms; if you have kids at home, encourage them to get involved by creating a dog-friendly version of a blanket fort!
To prevent injuries to you or your pooch, remember to avoid using wooden or other slippery surfaces and keep the area free from other obstacles.
Hide some treats
Dogs are skilled at using their fantastic sense of smell to find tasty treats, so use it to help them get some exercise. Hide a few of their favourite snacks around the house, and they’ll be rewarded for their exercise. You can hide treats according to their ability and find ways to increase the amount of movement they do. For example, you can encourage them to go up and down stairs or do a full lap of the house. Remember where you’ve hidden them so you’re not finding dog biscuits for days!
Alternatively, you can hide treats inside a Kong and freeze it so your pooch has to work to release the treat. This is great for mental enrichment, too.
Play tug of war
Playing tug-of-war with your dog helps them burn off energy and gives you a workout. Of course, you can always enlist other family members to take over if you need a break. Go carefully with this, as some dogs can get overexcited or become aggressive during rough-and-tumble games. Stay calm, and make sure your doggo knows you’re in charge. Take breaks to calm them down, and stick to non-slip surfaces to avoid falls.
At PetStay, your dog’s safety and well-being is our first priority. Our dog carers look after every aspect of your dog’s care so that you can enjoy a holiday or day out without worry. Check here to see why we’re your best choice for quality dog boarding!