At Yorkson Creek Veterinary Hospital, we believe that keeping your dog active isn’t just about burning off energy—it’s essential for their overall health, happiness, and longevity. But depending on the time of year, it can be tricky to find creative ways to keep your pup moving.
Whether you’re dealing with snowy sidewalks, rainy spring mornings, or scorching summer afternoons, we’ve rounded up 10 fun and safe dog exercise ideas you can enjoy through every season.
1. Indoor Fetch or Tug-of-War (All Seasons)
When it’s too cold or wet outside, indoor games can be just as energizing. Toss a soft toy down a hallway or use a sturdy tug toy for a game that builds both strength and connection. Bonus: it’s a great way to reinforce commands like “drop it” and “leave it.”
2. Winter Walks With Paw Protection
Snowy weather doesn’t have to mean staying indoors. Just be sure to use dog-safe booties or paw wax to protect against salt and ice. Keep walks shorter, and always dry their paws after you return to prevent irritation.
3. Agility Courses at Home
Set up a simple agility course using chairs, broomsticks, or couch cushions. Encourage your dog to jump, crawl, or weave between obstacles. This can be done indoors during winter or in the yard during spring and summer.
4. Hiking Adventures (Spring & Fall)
These are the perfect seasons for a hike. The weather is moderate, and trails are full of new scents and textures. Just make sure your dog is on tick prevention and that they’re physically ready for steeper terrain.
5. “Fitness Buddy” Workouts
Trying to squeeze in a home workout? Let your dog join! Have them sit or lie beside you during planks, hold them during squats, or reward them for staying while you do a yoga sequence. This encourages calm behavior while promoting bonding and balance.
6. Swimming in the Summer
Swimming is a low-impact dog exercise perfect for older dogs or breeds prone to joint issues. Whether it’s a lake, pool, or even a sprinkler in your yard, always supervise closely—and consider a canine life jacket for safety.
7. Mental Games for Rainy Days
Exercise isn’t just physical—mental stimulation is equally important. Try puzzle toys, hide-and-seek with treats, or teach new commands. This is a fantastic way to tire out your dog when the weather keeps you both inside.
8. Dog-Friendly Social Time
Playdates with other friendly dogs in your home, yard, or at a dog park give your dog a chance to run, socialize, and burn off energy in a natural way. Always supervise, especially in public spaces.
9. Stair Climbing (Indoor or Outdoor)
If your dog is healthy and doesn’t have joint issues, supervised stair climbing can be a great way to add resistance and cardio to their routine—perfect for short winter bursts of indoor activity.
10. Evening Walks in Summer
Too hot to walk during the day? Switch to early morning or post-sunset walks. Use reflective gear and stay on well-lit paths. Even a short stroll can do wonders for digestion, energy, and mental stimulation.
Small Steps, Big Impact
You don’t need complicated gear or a massive backyard to keep your dog healthy. A little creativity and consistency go a long way. And every dog is different—some may thrive on high-energy runs, while others love calmer walks or sniff sessions. What matters most is keeping them moving safely and regularly.
If you’re unsure whether a particular activity is safe for your dog’s breed, age, or health status, our team at Yorkson Creek Veterinary Hospital is always here to help. From fitness-friendly checkups to seasonal wellness advice, we’re happy to support your pet’s healthiest life—year-round.
Ready to build your dog’s best routine? Start with what you already have—and add a little fun.
Looking for more pet wellness ideas? Our team is just a call away with personalized tips tailored to your dog’s needs.
📍 Visit us in Langley: 110-20728 Willoughby Town Centre Drive
📞 (604) 510-7387
