How Daycare Helps Dogs Burn off Winter Energy

The Winter Energy Problem 

As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, our dogs tend to spend more time inside. For some dogs, snuggle weather is a welcome change, while for others, it can be hard to adjust to the lack of time outside. For higher-activity dogs, not being able to run and play outside can result in pent-up energy, boredom, anxiety, and unwanted behaviours. It also typically means fewer chances to socialize with other dogs and humans, which can be detrimental to your pup’s well-being.

That’s where daycare comes in. At Unleash the Pawsitive, we give your pup an opportunity to run, play, nap, and socialize in a safe and warm environment. With our expertly trained staff to supervise, we make sure your dog can make the most of the cold winter days and comes home a happy and tired dog. 

How Daycare Can Help

Daycare provides a variety of benefits for dogs year-round, but can be especially beneficial in the winter months. At Unleash the Pawsitive, your dog can run and play with other dogs in a warm and safe indoor environment, so you don’t have to worry about slippery sidewalks or walking in the dark. Your dog can run, play, wrestle, and tug in a warm and dry environment with their best pals, all day long!

Dogs are social creatures, and regular interactions with other dogs and humans help them stay emotionally balanced and confident. Daycare provides an opportunity for dogs to safely interact with one another while also learning important social skills. This is especially important in winter when a lack of social interactions can make dogs restless or anxious. Our trained staff helps dogs to have safe and appropriate reactions with each other, to ensure all dogs display manners and are polite with one another. 

While physical stimulation is important for dogs, mental stimulation is equally important. Daycare gives dogs the chance to experience many new scents, sounds, experiences, and interactions, which helps keep their mind busy all day. Between games with staff, playing with each other, mini-training sessions, and enrichment toys, we ensure all dogs leave feeling mentally fulfilled at the end of each day. 

When dogs have a consistent and predictable routine, they are less likely to feel anxious and overwhelmed. When winter weather throws off your dog’s daily routine, daycare can be a great way to give them something predictable to look forward to. Maintaining structure throughout the year is a great way to prevent behavioural issues and make your pup’s life feel more centered and balanced. 

The Benefits You’ll Notice At Home

The benefits of daycare don’t end at the end of the daycare day. A dog who has spent their day at daycare is more likely to come home a content and relaxed pup, ready to settle into the night instead of stirring up trouble. Dogs who go to consistent daycare tend to experience better sleep, less anxiety, have fewer unwanted behaviours, improved social skills, and a better sense of calmness and ease. 

Especially for dogs who are prone to problem behaviours and anxiety, the stimulation and social interaction the dogs receive from daily or weekly daycare can make a world of difference. Having a structured outlet for play, social interaction, and downtime results in a happier pup.

For Dogs Who Need More One-on-One Attention 

While daycare is a great option for many dogs, some dogs may benefit from more personalized attention and care. Our Doggy Daycamp has been specially created for dogs who need more specialized and individualized structure. It’s especially great for dogs who may be easily overstimulated or who could benefit from extra enrichment. Unleash the Pawsitive’s Day Camp features additional enrichment activities like puzzle toys, scent games, and training and physical activities like treadmill walks and agility work. Our program also features specialized one-on-one time from staff, who are ready to provide extra TLC and attention. We also schedule in structured rest and downtime, to prevent dogs from becoming overstimulated and wound up. Day camp is a great program for pups during the winter month, when all the time indoors might mean they need a little more specialized structure during the day. 

Why Winter is the Perfect Time to Enrol in Daycare

Dogs benefit from extra stimulation and exercise in winter months, when oftentimes they spend most of their day cooped up inside without proper outlets for their needs. Daycare offers a safe and consistent way to keep your dog’s mind, body, and spirit fulfilled - no matter what the weather outside. Just like humans, dogs can also experience the “winter blues”. Giving them safe and fun activities and playtime is a great way to keep their mood boosted and give them confidence during long winter days. 

If you’re looking for a way to keep your dog happy, healthy, and thriving this winter season, look no further - we’ve got you covered! If you’re interested in enrolling your dog in daycare or daycamp, feel free to send us an email, we’d love to chat and answer any questions you have. 

Until next time,

🐾 Woofs & Wags
- Melissa & Oaklee 🐾
@unleashthepawsitive