dog sledding. To get started, check out this helpful guide by the Pacific Sled Dog and Skijoring Association. Then, see if there are any skijoring events scheduled in your region this winter. Attending can help you connect with like-minded pet parents who can help you connect with trainers and local groups. This trust-building activity — where you must count on the dog to obey your commands — can strengthen the human-canine bond and provide a magical mode of transport across the winterscape. [Is your dog built for winter? Read Dogs and climate: Best breeds based on where you live]
leaping up to snap at them with his mouth. Should you go ice fishing with your dog? As much as we love ice fishing and hikes along the frozen surface of the river, your safest bet is to keep your furry friend on the shore. The slick and frozen surface can cause injury, either through a fall or by exposure. More importantly, ice thickness can change very quickly as you make your way across the surface. That can create a dangerous situation for a dog that’s bounding happily ahead of you. If you do end up on or near the ice, keep your dog leashed. Because even if your dog is well-trained to respond to voice commands, all it takes is the sight and scent of one goose to distract him. If he does fall through, don’t attempt to pull him out. After all, if the surface of the ice can’t hold your dog, it’s not going to hold you, either. Instead, call the authorities. Many ice rescue teams have the equipment to safely retrieve
dogs from the water.
But what if you have an indoor dog?
Maybe your dog isn’t terribly outdoorsy (or maybe you’re the one who doesn’t want to go outside more than you have to). If you need a cozier option for your dog to run off steam, get in touch with your local doggy daycare. Some centers host open playgroups on weekends so pups can safely romp and run where it’s climate-controlled. Some places now offer indoor swimming for dogs, while other entrepreneurs have taken the indoor dog park to the next level by combining them with brewpubs so pet families can enjoy a day out together. Check your community and beyond. You might get lucky and find a great inside option for your dog to stretch his legs this winter. Article gathered from https:// nutrisourcepetfoods.com/blog/ pet-parents/5-fun-winter-activities- to-try-with-your-dog-and-one-to- avoid/
Can dogs catch snowballs?
If your dog already is a fan of the snow, then, yes, going after a snowball should make him pretty happy! Of course, make sure the kids understand they should never pelt your pet with snowballs. But do try tossing a few small lightly packed snowballs in his direction, and see if he’s interested in chasing them or
Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 39
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