Alberta Dachshund Rescue

Keeping our dogs busy during the winter

Every dachshund owner knows how much fun winter can be.  Our dogs just love the freezing cold and all the wet snow!  Winter can turn into a time we like, and use to our advantage.   With a roof over our heads and heat to keep us warm during the cold months, here are some helpful little tips and tricks we can use to keep our dachshunds on their best behaviour and use our homes to do so.  Believe it or not, mental stimulation is often more effective than taking them for hours of walks to burn their energy.  Here are some fun ideas to use:

-Hide and seek.  This fun little game can be used both with us as the prize, or we can even hide their favourite toys and treats around the house.  They will use their noses and minds and is even fun for us to watch them.  Also can be used to practice their recall when a distraction occurs!

-Feeding Puzzles.  Found in most pet stores, these are a lot of fun and forces them to think about how to get the treats.  They have different skill levels and they love it.  We happen to have a few that we don't use anymore, and encourage others to pass them along to others when you are done with them.  

-Snufflemats.   Also found in most pet stores, and does not take a lot of effort, these can be a fun little game for them to burn off some steam.

-Tricks and Obedience.  Teach your dog to do some tricks or new commands.  Not only can this stimulate their minds, gives you a great way to bond with your buddy.  There is no better way to bond with your buddy than to learn new things together.  Basic commands like sit, stay, down, speak, roll over and shake a paw can be easy ones to start off with. You can also learn more about your buddy.  Anything we can teach them can translate to better life skills for you and your dog.

-Dog sports.  There are many places hosting lessons and classes on dog sports that many of our friends utilize.  Flyball, agility, obedience, lure coursing, and scent work are a few of the favorites.  Look into some of these classes for you and your dog to attend.  Not only will it help your dog, but gets you both out of the house, learn something new, and maybe even meet some new friends and their dogs.  Many of these activities can be useful at home in the winter on a smaller scale.  Look up a training facility in your area to find out how to sign up.

-Dog friendly stores.  Many stores will allow you to bring your dogs inside with you.  Go do some shopping or window browsing and get your guy out of the house.  Please make sure they do their duties before entering so this privilege does not get taken away from us.  

-Indoor Playdates.  Dachshund clubs in your area may host indoor events during the winter.  Make sure you look into joining a club to take advantage of these indoor meet ups.  The Calgary Lowriders, Edmonton Dachshund Social Club and the Kelowna Dachshund Club all host a variety of indoor events during the cold season!  Don't miss out on these!  ADR will also be hosting a variety of these indoor heated meet ups in Calgary this season.  Keep an eye on our facebook page for upcoming dates, or just message us for a visit.  If we are free, come join us and socialize your weenie.  

Have fun and stay warm this winter.  Please share your tips and tricks to keep your weenie busy this winter.  If you use any of our suggestions, please share photos and video with us as well!  Have fun and see you all soon!