It’s 20 degrees, the wind’s kicked up, and the sun just set. I don’t care how sad my dog looks, a walk this evening is out of the question. Even if I wanted to brave it, it is dangerous for him, even with dog boots and a dog coat. But we need to do something.

If you live in colder climates, you may be used to braving the weather, but there just are times that you and dog should stay inside. You can still exercise your dog. Even a larger dog. Even if your home isn’t that large.

One of our favorite indoor dog games we call “Mountain climber”. Basically it’s just running up and down the stairs combined with ‘Money in the Middle’. My little trick, name the game so the kids are interested in playing too. We have someone at the top of the stairs and someone at the bottom.  We throw one of his toys up and down and try to keep it from the dog. If you are good at throwing and keeping the toy away from the dog, let him catch it once in a while. Then you, can start over with a new toy or chase him to get the toy or wrestle the toy from him.  Our dog likes all three.

Our other favorite game is wrestling. Yes, wrestling. OK it’s not my favorite to play (I refuse to wrestle) but it’s my favorite to watch my husband play. For larger, playful dogs like ours it works well. You are actually giving your dog three things at once: physical activity, personal attention and physical contact–all things most dogs love. And works for the husband too–he is always panting after 15 minutes.

This game is not for every dog. You need to know if your dog’s personality can handle it as a game, not a serious defense. And after the game, you need to bring the dog down and reinforce your position as caring owner (not fellow dog) with firm, gentle conversation and some affection petting.

Cesar Milan, Dog Whisperer, has some of the same ideas in this article on Indoor Activities on his Web site.

With the weather warming up, you can once again look to taking your pooch to a dog park for a romp. Dog parks can be a great place for dogs to work out some energy in the way they love, through play with friends. (And you all you have to do is sit there and watch.) Here are some things you need to consider before going.

Dog Park Etiquette

• Read the rules of the park as you go in and heed them. This makes the park safe and fun for all.
• If your dog is new to the dog park, take small steps. Visit a few times and watch from outside the gate. You’ll get him or her used to the idea and you’ll get a sense of if your dog can handle it.
• In fact, you and your dog will have very good visits if she or he is trained, at the least, to come when called.
• Exercise your dog before you go to drain a little energy. According to Dog Whisperer Cesar Milan, “This way he’ll be relaxed, but will still engage the other dogs.” Ideally, a walk to the dog park will be a good warm up.
• Not only do you want to keep your dog in sight, but you should make contact with him or her. Occasionally talk to your dog a calm, assertive voice and with eye contact to remind him you are there and in charge.
• Make sure your dog is protected with all the vet-recommended shots before you go. Dogs can pick up worms and diseases such as parvo at a dog park — or anyplace else dogs congregate. Also, make sure he or she has had their regular heartworm and flea medication. And please, clean up after your dog.
• Do keep a regular collar and dog tag on your dog at all times, but absolutely unleash her. Otherwise, she can become a target for other dogs to “investigate” which can create anxiety or defensiveness in the leashed dog and provoke a situation.
• When dealing with other dog, learn canine body language is a good idea. Sometimes, people do not recognize signs of true aggression and assume the dogs will “work it out”, or, on the other hand, may overreact to what is healthy dog play.
• It should go without saying, but I’ll say it anyway, not all dogs should attend dog parks. Obviously aggressive dogs would not be a good idea. Anxious or fearful dogs may be too overwhelmed and overreact. Puppies should be at least four months old and fully vaccinated.
• Do not bring small children into a dog park. A dog that is socialized with other dogs, may still be unfamiliar with children. And young children don’t know dog-appropriate behavior.
• If the park is full, just wait for another time to visit.

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