It’s easy to get into a couch potato way of life during the winter months.
Heck, even your dog would rather lie down in front of the fireplace or cuddle up to the wood stove than go outside when the temperatures start falling below zero!
Funny thing is… our furry companions are happy to follow our lead, no matter where we’re headed.
So, why not bundle up and get outside into the fresh air?
Winter brings all sorts of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Here are some fun ways that you AND your dog can combat cabin fever together:
#1 – Dog Sledding
Professional dog sled racing is a fun sport to watch during the winter months.
But you don’t have to be resigned to simply WATCHING these events…
Recreational dog sledding is a great way to enjoy the sport first-hand!
With as few as 3 dogs, an adult can hit the trail.
Even 1 dog is sufficient to pull young children on lightweight sleds for afternoon outings to enjoy the day outdoors.
The best way to enjoy recreational dog sledding with your own dog is to sign up for a specialized “skijoring” or “recreational mushing” experience. There, outfitters teach you how to harness your dog to a sled.
Top Dog Sledding Locations
- Minnesota – Points Unknown Dog Based Adventures in Hovland provides training, and Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge in Ely is a premier spot for dog-powered vacations.
- Colorado – Redemption Dog Sledding at YMCA of the Rockies (Snow Mountain Ranch) offers a slew of hands-on dog sledding experiences.
- Michigan – Nature’s Kennel in McMillan provides day trips where you can learn to drive your own team of sled dogs.
- Pennsylvania – Nemacolin in Farmington provides sled dog tours and “Touri Carts” (wheeled sleds) when the snow is low.
- Alaska – All around Fairbanks, you’ll find LOTS of authentic, historic dog sledding experiences.
- Vermont – The Catamount Trail near Harriman Reservoir is a popular spot for recreational dog sledding.
No dog sledding events in your neck of the woods?…
You can still get into the spirit of dog sledding by taking your dog for a walk in the winter snow to the nearest park or sledding hill near you. Sometimes, watching others have fun in the snow is almost as much fun (if not more) than doing it yourself. And, as long as you walk to your destination, then you and your dog will be getting in some valuable exercise.
MY TAKE AS A DOG OWNER: I haven’t done it yet… But I plan to! I’ve been to Alaska a few times and visited some of their dog sledding facilities. I definitely can’t wait to try it!
#2 – Skijoring (aka Cross-Country Skiing)
All that’s required for Skijoring is you, your dog, and a pair of skis.
Even small dogs will enjoy this outdoor activity!
Cross country skiing is a popular activity all throughout the snowbelt.
Bring your dog along to enjoy the experience and I bet you’ll find they’re just as excited to help pull you along the trail.
That’s what Skijoring is all about!
With many organized Skijoring events held throughout the winter months, you can choose to participate or simply be a spectator. Either way, the fresh air will do you good and keep those winter blues at bay.
MY TAKE AS A DOG OWNER: I lived in Lake Placid for a few years. A friend and I took her dog cross-country skiing once. We had a blast!
#3 – Playing In The Snow
In case you’re wondering if dogs like snow or not, the dogs in this video prove that snow can provide hours of fun:
My favorite parts from the video:
- They ‘doggie paddle’ to propel themselves down the hill.
- They snack along the way, munching on snow as they’re sliding.
- They stay out of each other’s way.
- They’re fully aware when they’re getting close to the trees.
- They stop to enjoy a good snowy back rub at times (similar to a doggie snow angel).
- They enjoy the downhill ride so much, that they don’t mind running back up the hill to do it all again.
- The pure joy that shows on their faces… and tails!
Need MORE proof?…
MY TAKE AS A DOG OWNER: Now THIS is something I can 1000% get behind. I’ve done this with my dogs several times — let them explore trails freshly covered with snow AND hills where others are sledding.
The Bottom Line
In the end, it’s all about going outdoors and getting some exercise — with your dog.
So… Bundle up in layers, stay warm, and go out there and enjoy!
As cute as it is to see big pawed dogs run around like little puppies, they need to be watched carefully for signs of dehydration. Snow poisoning is the term for a dog that is essentially dying of thirst while surrounded by snow. Yes, snow is frozen water — however, it has very little amount of actual water in it. So, the next time you’re out in the snow playing with your dog, make sure that you have some actual water on hand for them to drink.
