New York City’s weather is as unpredictable as its subway system. One day the sun is shining, and the next, rain or snow makes venturing outside a daunting task. For us, this might just mean swapping sneakers for boots or hunkering down indoors—but for our dogs, bad weather often translates to skipped walks and unmet needs.
While we adjust to weather with ease, our dogs don’t have the same luxury. They rely on us to provide the physical and mental stimulation they need, regardless of the season.
Unfortunately, many dogs in NYC, confined to small apartments with no access to yards, are already struggling to get enough exercise. When inclement weather strikes, this problem becomes even more severe.
A Look at Breeds and Their Exercise Needs
Dogs were bred for specific purposes: hunting, herding, pulling sleds, guarding, and more. Their bodies and minds are designed for activity. Let’s explore some examples:
Labrador Retrievers:Bred to retrieve game for hunters, Labs are energetic, intelligent, and eager to please. They require at least 1-2 hours of exercise daily to remain happy and healthy. A quick walk around the block during a snowstorm doesn’t come close to fulfilling their needs. Without proper outlets, these lovable dogs may become restless, chew on furniture, or bark excessively.
Huskies:Originally bred to pull sleds over long distances, Huskies thrive on vigorous exercise like running or playing for several hours daily. These dogs are happiest when they’re working. Imagine their frustration when they’re confined to a small NYC apartment during a rainy week, their instincts stifled by a lack of space and activity.
Border Collies:Renowned for their intelligence and herding abilities, Border Collies have boundless energy and need both mental and physical stimulation—often more than 2 hours a day. When trapped indoors due to icy sidewalks or thunderstorms, they may develop anxiety, pacing endlessly or finding destructive ways to entertain themselves.
French Bulldogs or Pugs:While these smaller breeds don’t require marathon runs, they still need moderate daily exercise to prevent weight gain and health issues. A few days of inactivity due to bad weather can lead to lethargy, boredom, and even long-term health problems like obesity or joint pain.
Regardless of breed, every dog has a baseline need for movement, stimulation, and interaction. When NYC’s unpredictable weather prevents outdoor exercise, they pay the price—not just physically, but emotionally too.
The Emotional Toll of Weather on Dogs
Think about how you feel when you’re cooped up inside for days on end. Now imagine having no control over your environment, no way to channel your energy, and no idea why you can’t go out and play. That’s the reality for dogs during bad weather.
Dogs aren’t just bored; they’re confused, restless, and anxious. They might express this through whining, pacing, chewing, or barking—behaviors that are often misunderstood as “acting out” when, in reality, they’re desperate for stimulation.
When the snow piles up or the summer heat makes pavement unbearable, our dogs need us to step up. They can’t advocate for themselves; they can’t tell us, “I need to run, to sniff, to chase.” It’s our responsibility to find solutions, even when the weather is against us.
Alternatives to Outdoor Exercise
The good news is that bad weather doesn’t have to mean inactivity. Here are ways to keep your dog healthy and happy, no matter what’s happening outside:
Indoor Games:
Set up a game of fetch or tug-of-war in your apartment.
Create an obstacle course using furniture, cushions, or cardboard boxes.
Play hide-and-seek with treats or toys to engage their minds.
Mental Stimulation:
Use puzzle toys like the KONG or Nina Ottosson’s interactive puzzles to challenge your dog.
Practice training commands or teach new tricks—this tires them out mentally.
Engage in scent work by hiding treats around your home and letting your dog hunt for them.
Mobile Dog Gym:
Our mobile dog gym brings a treadmill designed specifically for dogs directly to your door.
Treadmill sessions provide safe, controlled exercise that mimics running outdoors, no matter the weather.
It’s an ideal solution for high-energy breeds and busy NYC pet parents.
Why This Matters
Our dogs didn’t choose to live in a city where parks are few and far between, where they spend hours alone in apartments, or where their instincts are sidelined by convenience. They don’t understand why the rain or snow keeps them inside, or why they don’t get to burn off the energy they were born to have.
When we choose to bring a dog into our lives, we take on the responsibility of meeting their needs—rain or shine. So the next time bad weather tempts you to skip your dog’s exercise, ask yourself: Are they getting what they need to thrive, or are they just getting by?
Let Us Help You Keep Your Dog Active
NYC weather can be unpredictable, but your dog’s health and happiness shouldn’t suffer because of it. Our mobile dog gym ensures your pup gets the exercise they need, no matter the forecast. Contact us today to schedule a session and give your dog the care they deserve.
Comments