Living in the greater Milwaukee area doesn’t mean you and your dog have to hibernate indoors all season. With a bit of creativity and preparation, you can turn the season into a series of wonderland adventures. In fact, frosty landscape and chilly temperatures can create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure with your four-legged friend. 

Winter Hiking:

Take advantage of winter wonders by exploring dog-friendly hiking trails and parks. Bundle up in your warmest gear, leash up your pup and go! Enjoy scenic winter trails at Grant Park or Havenwoods State Forest. If you’re looking for more of a snowy stroll or place where your dog can run and play in the snow, check out Estabrook Park and Menomonee Park that have designated off-leash areas. 

Snowshoeing:

Strap on your snowshoes for a winter adventure. Enjoy designated snowshoeing trails with your dog at Kettle Moraine State Forest Lapham Peak Unit. For snowshoe trails along the Lakeshore Michigan shoreline, check out Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve.

Snow Paws in Your Backyard:

Sometimes, a simple day of playing in the snow in your own backyard can make you feel like a kid again. Throw snowballs, build a snowman, or just let your dog run and play in the snow.

For those of you who just don’t like the cold,  I’m not going to convince you otherwise. Rather cherish the moments indoors with your dog and make this winter one for the memory books. 

Doggy Treat Baking:

Warm up your home with the aroma of freshly baked dog treats. Trust me your pup will agree that there is nothing better than a fresh batch of homemade treats. Not sure where to start, check out these homemade treat recipes that use 5 ingredients or less.

Dog-Friendly Breweries:

Milwaukee’s vibrant brewery scene is also a dog-friendly one, with several local breweries offering areas where you and your dog can chill together. Though, not all of them are dog-friendly indoors…so check out my post with a list of breweries that are paw-friendly indoors too!

Cozy Indoor Playdates:

Don’t have time to organize a playdate, enjoy private gym time with your pup. Abby and Maggie love their indoor playtime at Canine Einstein in Bayview. I also highly recommend the Canine Enrichment Center in Grafton. Both provide an indoor paradise for your pup to explore and play on those days when you can’t be outdoors.

Perfect for those chilly days. Organize playdates with other dog owners or schedule your own private gym time in a warm, indoor space. This not only provides socialization opportunities for your pup, while you get to do some socializing too!

Whether you’re exploring snow-covered trails or enjoying cozy indoor activities, cherish the moments with your furry friend and make this winter one for the memory books. 

P.S. With all outdoor activities, remember to dress your dog appropriately for the weather, keep them hydrated, and be mindful of their comfort level in the cold.