If you’re like us Tractive folk, you’re no stranger to snow. Lots and lots of snow. But nature is calling, and you and your dog will need to use up your energy somewhere. So, what fun things can you do with your dog in snow? And how can you ensure your dog doesn’t go off running into the snowy fields – too far from safety? Let’s find out.

Can you handle a dog in snow like a pro? What to consider

Not so fast! Before you take your dog in snow for some winter fun, consider:

  • Whether your dog can handle snow and cold. Generally, it’s better to keep them indoors if the weather dips below 32°F (0°C).
  • Your dog’s fitness level, especially if they can keep up with you while out skiing or hiking.
  • Your dog’s winter wardrobe. Make sure your dog is protected from the cold and stays warm – maybe with a winter dog jacket.
  • Take care of your dog’s paws! Exposure to winter’s dry, cold air, chilly rain and snow can cause chapped paws and itchy skin.
  • Keep your dog’s nails cut short and the fur between the toes trimmed.
  • Consider a pair of dog booties to protect your buddy’s paws.
  • Don’t forget the essentials, including doggie bags, foldable water bowls, and treats. If you’ve got a longer walk planned, a dog first aid kit and extra supplies can help you prepare.
  • Whether your dog’s easy to identify, with an ID tag containing your contact details and ideally a microchip.

⚠️ And if your dog tends to run off by themselves…

  • A dog GPS tracker can be an important emergency measure – helping you track your dog in real-time, over an unlimited range, and even across countries.

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1. Go skijoring or sledding.

Skijoring is cross-country skiing with a little help from your furry friend — you’re on the skis, and your dog runs out in front of you with a long line that connects you to their harness. It may sound difficult, but the pulling part actually comes naturally to many dogs. You might be surprised how much fun it is.

If you try out skijoring with your dog in snow, make sure that you dog knows the commands for turning and stopping.

2. Have a snowball fight or build a snowman.

Another classic fun winter activity for you and your dog in snow is a snowball fight. Most dogs love to fetch and will love chasing either you or the snowball. Form snowballs from soft snow (don’t pack them too hard), then gently toss them at your dog. Try tossing tighter packed snowballs in the air for your dog to jump at and try to catch. It’s quick, easy and a good workout for both of you! Even small dogs will enjoy this outdoor activity.

When you get tired of the snowball fight, you can make a snowman!

3. Try hiking or snowshoeing.

Some of the most popular winter activities for people include hiking and snowshoeing. Dogs love new spaces and smells, so take them along the next time you go for a hike or go snowshoeing (there are many pet-friendly trails – be sure you choose one).  A winter adventure is a great way to spend time with your best friend plus, it’s a bonding experience that will get you both in shape.

Make sure you bring plenty of water for both of you as you’ll probably work up a sweat.

4. Practice nose work.

A lot of activities can actually be practiced year round, even in cold conditions! One of them is nose work, which provides great physical and mental stimulation for dogs who love to sniff. This activity challenges your dog to use their nose to locate a certain scent.

You can start by trying a few times indoors, but winter weather is the perfect opportunity to get your dog to step up their game, as wind and snow can affect scent flow and make the activity more challenging.

⚠️ Just remember: snow can mess with your dog’s sense of smell and make it more difficult for them to sniff their way back home, in case they disappear out of your sight.

Which means, when dealing with a dog in snow – it makes sense to plan ahead for a lost dog situation too.

How to plan ahead for an emergency this winter

No matter how much of a good boy or good girl they are, all it takes is an open door for your dog to go out bolting – where they might get lost, injured, or unable to smell their way back home.

đź’ˇ But with a Tractive GPS Dog Tracker, you can track your dog’s location in real-time from within the easy-to-use map in the free Tractive GPS app.

If your dog gets curious or catches a scent and wanders off, you won’t have to worry about losing your furry friend. Just open the app and follow it to your good boy or gal.

Tractive GPS app feature screenshot LIVE Tracking

Plus, you can even:

  • Monitor your dog’s active minutes, rest minutes, and calories burned,
  • Share your dog’s activity progress on social media,
  • and compete with other pet parents in your friends group or neighborhood with the Leaderboard feature.

And with its 100% waterproof build, the Tractive DOG XL Adventure edition was designed for your dog to dive into the deepest snow pile, splash around ponds and lakes, and get up to all the rough and tumble adventures with you – completely stress-free.

Always know where your dog is

Follow every step in real-time with unlimited range. Get alerts if they wander too far. Keep them happy & healthy with Wellness Monitoring. And let others – like walkers or sitters – keep an eye on your dog too.

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Want to see it in action? Here’s a short, sporty video to get you pumped for your next adventure!

And if you’ve liked this post, share it with a friend or a loved one – and let’s help build a safer, kinder world for our furry friends together.