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10 Things To Do With Your Dog In Ontario This Winter

Get ready to have a paw-some day.

Ainsley Smith
by Ainsley Smith

BuzzFeed Contributor

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With the cold weather on the horizon, there's no need to let the chilly Ontario temperatures keep you from having an unfurgettable day with your pup. If you're running out of fun things to keep you and your dog entertained, read on to learn about 10 dog-approved activities to try in Ontario this winter.

1. Take a winter hike.

Woman on a hike with her dog.
Getty Images / Via gettyimages.ca

Who doesn't love a good hike in the snow? Not only are hikes a great change of scenery from the backyard and neighbourhood dog park, but they also give your fur baby the chance to explore new scents and views. If you and your pup are up for a hike, consider finding some hiking trails in Ontario near you. Also, keep in mind if your dog needs extra protection to stay warm.

2. Have a puppy play date.

Two dogs running with stick in their mouths.
Getty Images / Via gettyimages.ca

When the cold weather arrives, chances are you and your dog will be spending more time indoors away from your friends. On a nice day, get together with some of your friends or family members who have dogs for an outdoor doggo play date. You can meet at a dog park or even at one of your houses so the dogs can play in the snow together. 

3. Go on a shopping spree.

Young woman and a dog going for a walk with shopping bags.
Getty Images / Via gettyimages.ca

There's truly nothing better than a little retail therapy and you can bring out your pup's inner fashionista with a doggie shopping spree. Head to your local pet store for warm, colourful sweaters; winter booties; and insulated parkas or vests. And while you're at it, you might as well treat your pup to a new treat or a toy (or two). 

4. Try skijoring.

A couple and their dog skijoring.
Getty Images / Via gettyimages.ca

Don't worry if you haven't heard of skijoring before; you're definitely not alone. Well, if you know what skiing is and you have a large dog that enjoys the snow, you are all set! Essentially, it's a cross between dogsledding and cross-country skiing, and utilizes your dog's pulling power to guide you through snowy trails on a pair of skis. 

5. Go snowshoeing.

Young woman snowshoeing in woods with pet dog.
Getty Images / Via gettyimages.ca

If you and your dog love being outside in the snow, an excellent way for both of you to get some exercise and burn off some energy is to go snowshoeing. A winter adventure along a snowshoeing trail is a great way to spend time with your best four-legged friend. It’s a great bonding experience that will get you both in shape. Plus, Ontario is home to a number of great snowshoeing trails so chances are there's one close to you. 

6. Grab your sled and hit the hills.

Parents with two small boys and dog enjoying winter outside.
Getty Images / Via gettyimages.ca

We all know how much our dogs want to spend time with us so let them join in your winter activities. Bundle up your pup and head to a nearby sledding hill for a day of outdoor fun. If you trust your dog to be off the leash, let your doggo chase you down the hill or carry them along for the ride.

7. Visit a holiday market.

Pug in a Christmas sweater at a holiday market.
Getty Images / Via gettyimages.ca

Ontario is home to a number of outdoor holiday markets, including the world-famous Toronto Christmas Market, which means you and your pup should get into the festive spirit and visit one together. There will surely be plenty of fun holiday photo ops to look out for, which could make for the perfect holiday card.  

8. Just play outside.

Border collie running toward camera while holding a red ball.
Getty Images. / Via gettyimages.ca

Of course, there's nothing wrong with heading to your local dog park for a good old-fashioned game of fetch. Not only is playing fetch is a great way to burn some pent-up energy, but it also gives you some extra time to bond with your dog. We recommend selecting a toy that will be easy to find in the snow so aim for a toy or ball that's bright and large enough to spot. 

9. Prepare your pup a healthy, hearty meal.

Small dog eating a bowl of Kabo Hearty Turkey.
Kabo / Via kabo.co

After a long day playing in the snow, chances are your dog is going to be hungry!  Treat your pup to a hearty and tasty bowl of Canadian-made Kabo. Kabo is a fresh dog food company that uses information about your pup — from weight to age — to deliver healthy, customized meals to your doorstep to make mealtime enjoyable and healthy again. Plus, with fresh recipes like Tender Chicken, Savoury Beef, Hearty Turkey, and Luscious Lamb, and fresh kibble in Hearty Turkey & Salmon, Duck, and Chicken, there's a flavour for even the pickiest of dogs to enjoy. 

10. Bring the fun indoors.

Young woman playing with fluffy pet at home, dog jumping and trying to catch the toy.
Getty Images / Via gettyimages.ca

On the days when it's far too cold to venture outdoors, you can give your pup some much-needed exercise without setting a paw outside. From playing hide and seek and fetch to making an indoor agility course complete with chairs, blankets, broomsticks, or any other objects that you already have around your house, you can create a course and then spend time training your dog to navigate it. 

We know that it can be tempting to let your dog hibernate the winter away with you but it’s so much better for their health to keep dogs mentally and physically active. And with a little creativity and planning, you and your furry bestie can stay fit and healthy despite the chilly temperatures.

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