As winter arrives and the weather gets colder, it’s important to find ways to keep your pup healthy and exercised, even if you’re confined to the indoors. It’s important for you and your dog to stay active.

Although it can be difficult to find things to do in the winter, the American Kennel Club suggests the following tips to get through the season.

Create an indoor agility course. This may sound complicated, but setting up an obstacle course in your house can be simple. Place a broom on top of two buckets (or even just hold it!) to create a small jump for your dog. This is a great way to keep your dog engaged indoors. Always do your research to make sure that the activities you are doing with your dog are appropriate.

Set up a playdate. Whether with other dogs or humans, socialization is important for your dog. Even though winter can make us hibernate sometimes, it’s always beneficial to keep your pup socialized and provide reminders of what good behavior looks like. Make sure the other dogs are properly vaccinated.

Gain a new skill. Consider which of the Canine Good Citizen skills your dog has yet to learn and set up a training routine to do with your dog each day. “Sit,” “down,” “come” and “stay” can all be taught indoors and in a small space.

Add a trick to your repertoire. Old and new dogs can learn new tricks! Not only will learning another trick exercise your dog’s body, but it will mentally stimulate his mind too. Mental stimulation is equally as important as physical activity, and it will tire your dog out!

Consider doggie daycare. Some doggy daycare centers will offer socialization classes. This can be an ideal way to cut down on the time that your dog spends by himself and facilitate your dog’s interaction with other pups.

For more ways to keep your dog active and engaged, explore the American Kennel Club Virtual Programs, which act as a steppingstone to further in-person training. Programs include Home Manners, Obedience, Trick Dog, and more!

For more information on responsible dog ownership, visit the AKC at www.akc.org.

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