Activities For Dogs In Alaska On Nice Days
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Introduction
With so much cold weather in the state of Alaska, when the weather is nice you want to make the most out of it both for you and for your canine buddy. Not only will outdoor time help your pup get some energy out, the activity is important for their physical and mental health. And the opportunity to enjoy the sunshine and "warmer" weather is good for you too. Â So just what is there to do in Alaska when the sun is shining and the weather is less cold than usual? Â Fortunately, there are quite a few things for you to consider doing with your pup when it is a nice day in Alaska.
Snowshoeing
Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Normal
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Snowshoes
Boots For Your Dog
Water
Portable Water Dish
Waste Bags
Treats
Activity description
Let's face it; in Alaska, even on a nice day, there may be a lot of snow on the ground. Fortunately, snow on the ground provides a perfect opportunity to take your dog snowshoeing. A pair of snowshoes will allow you to walk on the snow without sinking into it, offering the chance to walk or hike in a white wilderness. Some dog breeds may require boots for the adventure to ensure that their feed don't get too cold, while others are built for just this sort of outing. Snowshoeing will offer the chance for you and your pup to get plenty of exercise while spending time together enjoying the outdoors.
Step
1
Decide where to snowshoe
Your options for where to snowshoe will depend on where you live and how far you are open to traveling. Trails that you can hike in the summer often make great places to snowshoe, as long as the roads to access them are able to be driven on safely. You can also choose a shorter adventure, particularly as you get accustomed to snowshoeing, should it be a new activity for you and your pup. Parks are great for snowshoeing and if you live on an acre or more of property, you and your canine companion can have an adventure right outside your front door.
Step
2
Dress for the weather
If there is snow on the ground, there is a chance that more can be on its way. Before setting out, particularly on a longer adventure, check the weather forecast. If adverse conditions are possible, avoid snowshoeing in the mountains where you can find yourself in some trouble should it snow. Dressing in layers is key when snowshoeing. You may start out cold, however will warm up as you expend more energy, particularly if moving uphill. On the way down, you may get chilly again and need to layer back up. A hat, gloves and warm socks are also important.
Step
3
Hit the snow
When you are ready, you and your pup can hit the snow! It is likely that you (and your dog) will snowshoe much slower than you hike. That's okay; this will give you more time to take in the beauty of your surroundings. Make sure to stop and offer your pup some water on occasion. With snow on the ground, water is not always at the forefront of your mind, however it is important that you and your canine pal remain hydrated.
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Walk or Hike
Popular
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Sunny Day
Cheap
Normal
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Waste Bags
Water
Portable Bowl
Treats
Activity description
Taking a walk is a simple and economical way to enjoy spending time with your pup outside. All you will need to do is leave your house, with your dog and a few other items in tow. A walk in Alaska can be around your neighborhood or a trek through the wilderness. Of course, you will want to choose a walk or hike that is appropriate for the ability and energy level of you and your canine companion. If you and your pooch have not done much walking together, start with shorter distances on flatter land and then work up from there. Regardless of the difficulty level of your walks, you and your pup will both benefit from the time spent together outdoors.
Step
1
Check the weather
Before you decide on where you would like to walk with your dog, it is a good idea to check the weather. After all, the weather will likely have some bearing on your decision. If there is a possibility for rain or snow in the forecast, it is best to dress appropriately and stay close to home, while if the sky is clear you can consider a longer walk or even a hike with your pup.
Step
2
Choose your adventure
Once you have a good idea of what to expect when it comes to the weather, you can choose where you would like to go on a walk. Your options will, of course, depend upon where you live and how far you are looking to drive. If you are planning to embark on a walk or hike in an area that you are not familiar with, a map can be helpful so that you can avoid getting lost. Be sure, particularly if you are going for a long walk away from your home, that you dress appropriately and bring warmer items with you just in case of a change in weather.
Step
3
Enjoy!
Once you have a plan, it is time for you and your dog to get outside and enjoy your time together! Bring along some waste bags so that you can clean up after your dog. If you plan to go for more than a short walk, you will want to take some water and a portable bowl with you so that you can help your dog remain hydrated. It can be helpful to bring treats for your pup; you can use these to reward them for not pulling on the leash or to distract them should you encounter another pooch. While you are walking, allow your pup to take in the smells and sights of their surroundings. The time you spend walking with your dog will further enhance your bond with one another, leading to a stronger relationship.
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Boat Fun
Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Moderate
Easy
1 - 3 hrs
Items needed
Boat
Leash and Harness
Life Jackets For You and Your Dog
Water
Waste Bags
Activity description
When the weather is nice in Alaska, why not enjoy some time on the water with your canine companion? A boat ride is a great option for you and your pup to get some fresh air and make the most out of a nice stay, as well as giving you and your dog the chance to spend time together and further develop your bond. Should you choose a boat with a motor, this activity will be a match for people and pups of all energy levels. Those seeking a workout can choose to kayak or canoe with their best pal, the slower pace allowing for time to take in the scenery.
Step
1
Check the weather
Before you and your pup head out on a boat of any kind, make sure to check the weather forecast. After all, you do not want to be out on the water should the weather turn poor. If there is a hint of an incoming storm, it may be best to schedule your outing for another day. If the weather looks clear than you can move forward with your plans for some time on the water.
Step
2
Choose your boat and destination
Once you are comfortable with the weather, you will want to choose your watercraft. If you own a motorboat, this may be what first comes to mind. They are often available for rental as well in areas where there is water nearby. You can also consider a sailboat, kayak or canoe. Your choice will likely depend on your physical abilities, energy level and skill. You will also want to develop a plan for your time on the water. If you choose to kayak or canoe, but are not experienced, make sure to plan a journey that keeps you close to shore. Starting small is always best and you can build from there.
Step
3
Getting comfortable
Before you set out on the water, be sure to give your canine pal a chance to get comfortable with the boat. Allow them to check it out, climb on and off and sniff as they please. Once your pup appears comfortable with what you both will be traveling on, you can get your watercraft, yourself and your dog out on the water. Your best friend can act as your first mate as you embark on a your adventure.
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Have A Picnic
Speaking of dining outdoors, why not have a picnic with your pooch? Grab a blanket and some lunch, as well as some treats for your canine pal and head to a park or even your backyard. You can lounge on your blanket, cuddling with your pup and enjoy the feeling of the sun warming you up. As a part of the picnic, you and your dog can participate in multiple activities, like fetch and agility activities. Your dog will be busy and will get the physical and emotional workout that they need, while having the chance to spend quality time with you.
Relax On A Dog-Friendly Patio
When the weather is nice and you yearn to be outside, it is likely that your dog does too. These kind of days are perfect for sitting out on a patio, enjoying lunch or a drink. Check out patios near where you are that are open to dogs hanging out. Then, take your pup and enjoy some relaxing time with your canine pal while meeting your nutrition or caffeine needs. Fortunately, many places are open to well-behave dogs, offering water bowls and even dog biscuits. Not only is dining outdoors with your pal good for building your relationship, it is also a great chance for your pup to meet other people and develop social skills.
Paddleboard With Your Pooch
On a nice day in Alaska, you and your canine buddy can enjoy a day of paddleboarding together on a river or a lake. Paddleboarding involves standing up on a board the size of a surfboard and paddling through the water. Fortunately, there is plenty of room on the board for your dog to hop on with you. As you explore the water and your beautiful surroundings together, you and your pooch will have the chance to further bond with one another. Life jackets for you and your dog are a good idea, as is a harness in case you need to pluck your pup from the water!
Conclusion
Companionship in the outdoors is a favorite for dogs and their people. While nice days may be limited in Alaska, your options for what to do with your pup during those times are not. There are plenty of things that you and your canine can do together to enjoy one another's company and a little one-on-one time. While outdoors, you and your pooch can take in some rays and be as physically active (or not) as you choose. Your pup will likely have a blast regardless of what activity you choose and adventure you embark upon.