How to Keep Your Pet Active When It’s Too Cold Outside

A Dog watching outside of a window at the cold snowy covered yard

Winter weather can derail your pet’s usual exercise routine — but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for couch potato season.

Here’s how to keep your dog or cat moving indoors when it’s too cold for the park:

  1. Hallway Fetch or Stair Climbs
    Toss a soft toy down a hallway or (carefully) up and down the stairs. This burns energy fast, especially for energetic dogs.
  2. Indoor Obstacle Course
    Use furniture, cushions, and boxes to build a mini agility setup. Teach your pet to weave, jump, and crawl for treats.
  3. Laser Pointer or Wand Toys
    Perfect for cats (and some dogs!). Let them chase and pounce — just always end the game with a physical “catch.”
  4. Tug and Chase Games
    A rope toy or tug ring offers great indoor movement and mental stimulation.
  5. Training Time
    Learning tricks or reinforcing commands exercises your pet’s brain — and brain workouts are just as tiring as physical play.

Being stuck inside doesn’t mean your pet has to be sedentary. Get creative and move together — it benefits you both.