Baston animal behaviour expert Karen Wild shares ways to keep your dog entertained if you’re poorly this winter

As winter frost starts, it’s often a time for colds and feeling under the (snowy) weather, writes Baston animal behaviour expert Karen Wild.

Ensuring your four-legged companion remains content and engaged becomes a priority, but what if you’re poorly? Lets look at practical ways to keep your dog's tail wagging during your winter sniffles, keeping it simple for when you’re just not up to the usual big walks!

Indoor Adventures. Transform your living space into an exciting canine playground. This involves a bit more creativity than just a game of hide-and-seek, which is still always welcome of course. Search for ideas for DIY puzzle feeders, engaging your dog’s scavenging instinct in a positive way they navigate through containers to find hidden treats. Consider setting up a gentle indoor agility course using household items - low cushions and tins of beans they can weave around – a delightful challenge for your dog's physical and mental prowess.

Cosy film time indoors: A movie night might sound like straightforward companionship, but it's an opportunity to introduce auditory stimuli to your pup's routine. Opt for shows or movies with a range of sounds, helping your dog adjust to different tones and frequencies. This sensory engagement not only entertains but also contributes to a well-rounded training experience. Of course, if you know they will chase the screen or bark, maybe don’t go for a Wallace and Gromit film!

Delve into training sessions that go beyond the basics. Teach your dog more complex tricks like spinning in circles or weaving through your legs, or chair legs! These advanced commands not only showcase your pup's intelligence but also provide mental stimulation, preventing boredom during your convalescence.

Pretend you’re at the Vets, teaching your dog how to stay happy during handling! This is easy to do whilst you’re settled on the sofa. This not only ensures your dog learns that such things are fun but also transforms a potentially stressful situation into a positive, routine-enhancing experience.

Happy sounds time can begin! Pick a playlist, an easy addition to your indoor environment, that can work as a tool for desensitisation training. Gradually expose your dog to various sounds – thunderstorms, doorbells, or even applause. These are easy to find in places such as Spotify. This gradual introduction builds resilience, making your pup less likely to react anxiously to unexpected noises.

Teach your dog to find their designated cosy corner. It can be more than a retreat; it can serve as a training hub. Practice "down" and "settle" commands in this space, reinforcing the notion that it's a safe and calm area. This aids in providing structure, making your dog feel secure during periods of both activity and rest, and a place to seek out when Christmas card deliveries arrive too.

Treats, a really useful ‘wages’ aspect of training, can be incorporated into advanced activities. Explore the world of canine enrichment with puzzle toys that dispense treats as your dog solves them. This not only challenges their problem-solving abilities but also ensures prolonged engagement, keeping them happily occupied.

As you transition back to wellness, consider expanding your dog's independence gradually. This involves not just moments of alone time but also the introduction of activities that stimulate their curiosity and independence. After a season of extra attention, it's crucial to transition your pup to more balanced social interactions. Encourage independent play and exploration by introducing new toys, rotating them regularly to maintain novelty. This balanced approach fosters a healthy independence without compromising the bond you've nurtured during the snuggle season.

By enhancing your indoor adventures, you can all benefit from this strategy to keep your pup content whilst you’re not so well. Stay warm, stay positive, and may the sniffles be just a small blip in your time together!