We love how energetic and playful our dogs are, but during wet and cold seasons, they can quickly get bored. Left to their own devices, we know how destructive a bored pup can be!

Here's some ways to keep your pooch mentally and physically active through winter.

Try a morning walk

Dogs can get bored while you're at work all day. A morning walk means exercise and enrichment for your dog, and fresh air and a burst of activity for you. You'll both enjoy the rush of endorphins and the metabolism boost to start each day in a good mood.

Rug up with a warm jacket and gloves, and enjoy the crisp early morning air with your furry friend.

Make dinner time into a game

Dogs are contra-freeloading. This means that the usually prefer to work for their food rather than get it for free.

Instead of dropping a handful of dry biscuits into their bowl, make them work for their supper. There's a range of games and toys available from vets and pet supply stores that make eating time.

Stuff your dog’s breakfast or dinner into food dispensing toys. They love the challenge of problem-solving to get the food out. Scatter their dry food on the back lawn or pavers so they can search for every single piece.

Rotate their toys every few days so they think they’ve got a whole new one to play with!

Explore the world

Take them for car rides on short errands so they can sniff out the window. But please do not leave your dog in the car for long periods unsupervised, and especially in the sun or warm weather.

Snuffle mats help encourage your dog's sniffing skills. This will help calm them down and keep their brain active.

When you're out and about, let them sniff! Dogs perceive the world through their noses. Giving dogs access to smells is very important for their wellbeing.

Exercise with a twist

Go for longer walks in new areas, try running, or play sessions with friends. Let your dog lead the way, allow them to sniff and see where their nose takes you!

Ask for help

If your dog really struggles, there are support services that can help. You might try a dog walker, dog trainer, or doggy day care once a week.

When placing your dog in the care of somebody else, make sure it's the right fit. Interview the people behind the scenes and take your dog to get a feel for the place before committing. Watch your dog's body language to see if they're happy with a new situation.