How to Help Dogs Deal With Cabin Fever

Winter isn't the only time of the year when dogs can go stir crazy. When bad weather any time of the year keeps them inside; dogs can go bonkers if they don't get enough exercise. A bored dog can turn into a destructive pet when left to find his own entertainment. I had a dog that would stare out the front window when the weather kept us inside. Cabin fever is just as real for your dog as it is for you and it can result in him marking areas inside the house, racing around at full speed, chewing on furniture or even show signs of depression. You can't change the weather, but you and your dog can still enjoy activities, inside or outside, when the weather permits.

Snowball catch. Most dogs like to go outside and sometimes simple games are the most fun. My dogs love catching snowballs and it gives them a way to get rid of extra energy. A soft snowball will break apart when they try to catch it, which gives them something else to do trying to find it. Yeah, that means you have to bundle up and go outside, but in the process of playing with your dog, you're also getting fresh air and exercise which helps you get rid of that cooped up feeling.

Skijoring. There's no rule that says we have to hibernate during the winter months. We aren't bears and neither are our dogs. If you enjoy cross country skiing and have a high energy dog who loves to run, skijoring is a perfect winter activity for both of you. It's a sport that combines cross country skiing with dog pulling and you can use one or two dogs. As long as your dog is healthy and strong enough to pull you on skis, this sport is guaranteed to give your dog a good workout.

Hiking is a great way to help you and your dog work off excess energy. Head out to a favorite trail that's not off the beaten path; when the weather permits. Let someone know where you plan on hiking and don't forget your cellphone. Pack a backpack with a warm hat, gloves, extra sweatshirt, first aid kit, some rope, water/food for you and your dog, flashlight with extra batteries, a hunting knife, matches/lighter and a wind/water proof coat and booties for your dog. I also pack 3 or 4 reflective emergency blankets; just in case. You should always be prepared with emergency supplies and gear when hiking no matter what time of year it is so you're ready for the unexpected.

Inside games. For humans and dogs who prefer playing indoors, interactive dog toys and games give your dog something to do and helps to stimulate his mind. It's not healthy for a dog to do nothing but lie around the house all day. Activities that requires a dog to get up and move around helps him keep excess weight off and helps ward off boredom which can lead to destructive behavior. You can find a variety of interactive toys, puzzles and food bowls online at reasonable prices.

Training. All dogs should be taught basic commands. As pet owners, we're expected to be able to control our dogs at all times and when they understand how we want them to act, it makes our job easier. Training a dog isn't difficult to do, but it does require commitment and patience on your part. Dogs want to do things to please us and any dog can learn no matter how old he is. When your dog knows how to do the basics, move on to more complicated commands and tricks. By the time summer rolls around, you can have a well mannered dog who knows how to follow commands and do tricks. Training is another great way to keep your dog's mind active.

Ball drop down the steps. My dogs love to chase tennis balls, but playing ball inside the house isn't the same as chasing one outside. Plus, there is always a danger of breaking something. Sit at the top of the stairs and drop a tennis ball down the steps. It gives your dog exercise running down the steps to retrieve the ball and then racing back up the stairs so you can do it again. If you have a bored cat, try dropping one or more ping-pong balls down the stairs.

It doesn't take a lot of imagination to help your dog deal with cabin fever. An extra walk around the neighborhood or a romp in the backyard can do wonders for a bored dog. Winter may not be your favorite time of year, but there's no reason why you and your dog can't have some fun during the colder months. Take extra precautions when playing outside and know when to go back inside. If your dog is shivering, he is cold. Know the signs of hypothermia for you and your dog. Get your pet moving to help keep him healthy in body and spirit during the winter months. You and your furniture will be glad you did.

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