Snow has once again descended upon our mountain town, and that means that many dogs are experiencing their favorite time of year. There’s no doubt about it—snow is fun for most dogs, and, along with cooler winter temperatures, it really changes them. One of the most obvious changes is that dogs are more energetic, especially when they are outdoors.
Energy can be great fun for all involved. Bringing a dog with you when cross country skiing or snow shoeing is a wonderful experience, and many dogs enjoy the extra time outdoors exercising. Even having company while shoveling snow is a pleasant side effect of the fact that most dogs love snow. People shovel the snow and dogs try to catch it as it flies by to the piles. And I love it when a dog is happily tired in the evenings after a day of outdoor snow adventures.
On the other hand, if your dog is feeling extra peppy because of the snow and crisp air, it can be exhausting if you are not similarly inclined to be more playful and full of joy due to snow. When dogs are invigorated by the weather but their people consider winter storms an inspiration to sip hot cocoa while reading a good book in front of the fire, there can be trouble.
Energetic dogs may be more likely to misbehave with destructive chewing, barking, whining, chasing the cat, and any of a number of undesirable actions that result from being full of energy with no way to vent it. When they do go outside, they may be less responsive because they are so distracted. They may also take off running and leaping—cute but potentially dangerous. Many people are surprised by misbehavior that occurs in the winter without realizing that cooler temperatures, more snow, and a bit of cabin fever may all be contributing factors.
The way that snow changes many dogs is a positive turn of events as long as you embrace it and provide your dog ample opportunities to enjoy the season. Otherwise, you’re in for a long wait until spring!
--Karen London
I just ran across your post. It's funny (and true) how snow changes dogs.
We got a significant amount of snow this year - our German Shepherds love it!
You can see some of our pictures on our website at
http://www.farnorthkennel.com
Posted by: Josh Brown | April 30, 2013 at 02:11 PM
I was just out letting the dogs burn off some steam today for the 2012 Alaska winter season. I put up some fun pictures here if you want to check them out. http://www.vomchugach.com/blog
Posted by: Chugach | October 27, 2011 at 08:55 PM
Heh so true!
Though, I get no break in other seasons because I get the same energy explosion when it rains! Being wet somehow gives my dog tons of energy, and it lasts even inside because he hasn't dried off yet!
I've been trying to find out why this is for the longest. I found ONE explanation a while back and never again.
Posted by: kblover | April 11, 2011 at 10:18 AM
Great post! I just stumbled across this blog. I wanted to share a link to a blog that nicely captures dogs and snow : )
http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/2010/11/dogs-dont-understand-basic-concepts.html
Posted by: Julie Hecht | February 22, 2011 at 10:28 AM
Here along the Wasatch Front in Utah, we don't get snow nearly often enough to satisfy my Golden Jack! He is absolutely ecstatic when there's snow outside for him to eat, roll around in, catch in his face, and even to lounge in! There isn't a better time to watch him play than when he's in a fresh snowfall.
Posted by: Sharon | January 30, 2011 at 03:38 PM
I look forward to the winter for that very reason! My dog simply wilts in the summer (and ok, so do I) but comes alive in the winter. I love watching her race through the snow.
Good thing too, since where I live gets an average of 121 inches a year.
Posted by: Michelle | January 28, 2011 at 01:16 PM