Plenty of us decided to welcome four-legged friends into our in the last year – according to Kennel Club figures dog ownership soared by nearly eight percent – so plenty of households will be enjoying their first winter with their new family member.
Despite the cold weather, it’s important to maintain an exercise routine for your dog to keep them happy and healthy particularly since over the winter months joint stiffness in pets can appear more prominently.
Regular exercise helps to keep joints mobile as well as preventing any weight gain which can add pressure to joints.
To help keep your pooch moving in the winter months, here are 10 top tips from pet health experts nutravet.
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Even if they'd rather curl up on the couch, dogs still need to get exercise over winter. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
. Walking your dog in cold weather
If your pooch is still happy to head out on winter walks, be sure to wrap up warm and if needed use a doggy coat to keep them cosy. On darker nights and morning, also be sure to wear bright or reflective clothing and walk your dog in well-lit areas. Avoid icy roads and pavements and clean your dog’s paws when you get home to remove and ice, salt or grit which may cause irritation. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
9. Training classes
Indoor training or agility classes are a great way of exercising your dog in colder weather, as well as allowing them to socialise with other dogs and boost their brain health. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
10. If in doubt, check with the vet
Some breeds of dog may need more exercise than others. If you are unsure what exercise is best suited for your pooch, speak to your vet who is best placed to offer advice depending on your pets age and breed. Photo: Canva/Getty Images