04/07/2025
🐾 5 Winter Wellness Tips for Your Dog ❄️ from Hoof and Paw
Rain, mud, cold paws… winter can make it tough to keep your dog active and comfortable! But with a few small tweaks, you can help your pup stay fit, strong, and mobile — even when the weather isn’t playing nice 💪🐶
Here are 5 easy ways to support your dog through the colder months:
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1️⃣ Move It Indoors
Short walks are great, but don’t forget about indoor exercise too! Try:
🔸 Sit-to-stands (doggy squats)
🔸 Walk over couch cushions
🔸 Balance disc work or tug games
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2️⃣ Warm-Up and Cool Down
Even a short session needs prep in winter. Begin with slow, focused movement like leash walking or gentle stretches before high-energy play. Finish calmly to help muscles recover 💨
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3️⃣ Rug Up & Dry Off
Short-coated, lean, senior or arthritic dogs benefit from a good coat outside. And always dry off wet fur, especially around the lower back and hips, to avoid post-walk stiffness 🧥🛁
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4️⃣ Winter Bodywork = Less Stiffness
Cold weather often reveals tightness or old injuries. Canine bodywork helps improve mobility, reduce tension, and keep your dog feeling loose and limber 🐾
👉 I offer tailored sessions in the comfort of your own home across the Wairarapa
5️⃣ Mental Stimulation Matters Too!
Keep their brain busy on rainy days:
🧠 Snuffle mats with healthy treats
🧠 Food puzzles
🧠 Nosework games
🧠 Teach a new cue or trick
Mental work can be just as tiring (and fulfilling) as a walk!
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💡 Consistency is the key to keeping your dog mobile, strong, and happy all winter long.
📩 DM or visit www.hoofandpaw.co.nz to book a canine bodywork session.
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