When the temperatures drop, it’s tempting for both us and our dogs to curl up on the couch and wait out the winter with cozy snacks.
But like humans, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy—no matter the season! With shorter days, icy sidewalks, and freezing weather, keeping your dog active during the winter can feel like a challenge.
The good news? There are plenty of creative ways to keep your pup moving and engaged indoors!
Why Do Dogs Gain Weight During Winter?
Winter weight gain in dogs is common and happens for various reasons.
The colder months often reduce physical activity, as freezing temperatures discourage outdoor play and exercise. With less movement, dogs burn fewer calories, even if their food intake stays the same.
Just like humans, some dogs naturally adjust their behavior in winter. They may sleep more, move less, and become less energetic, contributing to weight gain. Some breeds’ instincts kick in to conserve energy for warmth, a trait passed down from their ancestors who faced harsh winter climates.
Another factor is how we, as dog owners, respond to the cold season. We’re more likely to skip walks or cut them short, and sometimes, we compensate for boredom or inactivity by giving our dogs extra treats or bigger portions. These habits can quickly lead to unwanted weight gain.
How Caloric Burn Changes With Activity and Cold Weather
Caloric burn in dogs is closely tied to their level of physical activity, and when activity decreases in winter, so does their overall calorie expenditure. Those activities burn significant energy if your dog is used to running in the park or going on long walks.
Replacing them with shorter walks or less vigorous indoor play can lead to a calorie imbalance—especially if their diet remains unchanged.
Interestingly, cold weather itself can also impact caloric burn.
For dogs that spend significant time outdoors, their bodies may burn more calories to generate warmth. This only applies to certain dogs (such as working breeds or those with thick coats) and only under specific conditions. For most dogs, time spent indoors during winter is sedentary, meaning they aren’t using those extra calories for energy or warmth.
The Importance of Monitoring Your Dog’s Weight
Your dog’s weight plays a significant role in their overall health, especially during winter, when decreased activity can lead to unwanted pounds.
Extra weight doesn’t just affect your dog’s appearance—it can lead to joint issues, reduced energy, and an increased risk of severe health conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
By monitoring their weight and making necessary adjustments to diet and exercise, you can help your dog maintain a healthy, active lifestyle all year round.
How to Weigh Your Dog at Home and Track Progress
Weighing your dog at home is easier than you might think!
For smaller dogs, simply step on a scale while holding your dog, note the combined weight, and then subtract your weight. If you’re struggling with much larger dogs, many pet stores and veterinary clinics have scales you can use.
To ensure consistency, weigh your dog every three weeks during winter. At K9 Basics, our board-and-train dogs are weighed weekly, even in winter, to ensure their caloric intake aligns with their activity levels.
This regular tracking helps you catch small changes before they become bigger issues, allowing you to adjust their food intake or activity levels as needed.
How to Keep Your Dog Active Indoors During Winter
When outdoor exercise isn’t practical, indoor activities can keep your dog moving and engaged.
Set up an obstacle course with household items, play fetch down a hallway, or engage in tug-of-war. Training sessions focusing on obedience or tricks can also burn calories while providing mental stimulation.
For high-energy dogs, consider interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or even canine treadmills to help them stay active.
Remember, any activity is better than none, so get creative and have fun with your dog indoors.
3 Diet and Nutrition Tips for Managing Winter Weight
- Low-Caloric Treats: During training, opt for low-calorie options like shredded carrots or Volhard Liver Treats. These are perfect for rewarding good behavior without adding unnecessary calories. Avoid treats with lots of ingredients or those that are oversized, as these can quickly add to your dog’s calorie intake.
- Portion Control: Adjust meal portions based on your dog’s activity level. If they’re less active, reduce their portion size slightly to prevent weight gain. Use a measuring cup for accuracy and avoid free-feeding, as this makes it harder to track their intake.
- Healthy Snacks: Swap calorie-dense treats for healthier options like plain green beans, cucumber slices, or apple pieces (without seeds). These snacks provide a satisfying crunch without excessive calories, making them perfect for winter training or just as a light snack.
Keeping Your Dog Healthy and Active All Winter Long With K9 Basics!
Don’t let winter slow your dog down! At K9 Basics, we’re here to help you keep your furry friend fit, happy, and engaged all season long. From personalized training plans to expert guidance on diet and indoor activities, we’ll give you the tools you need to ensure your dog stays active and healthy—no matter the weather.
Call us at (866) 592-2742 or, if you’re from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, or New York, visit us at 131 Kenilworth Road, Marlton, NJ 08053, to learn more about our group training classes.
Also, browse our blog and social media for various topics about dogs and their lives with us!
