How I Keep My Cattle Dog Active in the Winter

Posted on: November 02, 2025 by Ellen Brunelle

Winter is finally here in Massachusetts. While I do love the occasionally fluffy snow-covered morning, the cold can be challenging for my cattle dog and I. We both like to stay active, and Goose thrives with lots of exercise, so here are some ways I keep him comfortable and active in the winter.

Nutrition

First, I will address his supplement program. Goose just turned 8 and doesn’t act like a senior at all; cattle dogs typically stay active into their late teens, so I focus mostly on proactive joint support and overall wellness for him. SmartCanine™ Combo Ultra Soft Chews has been great for him. He loves the tasty, chicken flavor of them, and I love knowing that he’s getting great joint, soft tissue, skin and coat, as well as digestive support. An added bonus – these chews are just soft enough to mask his daily allergy pill into as well.

Supplies

Next, I like to look for ways to keep him happy and comfortable in the colder weather. Goose has a Weatherbeeta dog blanket and some protective pup boots from past orders with SmartEquine. They keep him feeling warm and protected from the wind, and his paws stay safe against the ice and salty roads on our walks. Goose also loves snuggling into my horse Nemo’s SmartPak Classic Fleece Quarter Sheet, after Nemo has warmed up. I’ll pull the quarter sheet off Nemo, and place it in the corner of the ring, and Goose will head over and curl right up into it.

In addition to our lunchtime or after barn walks together, Goose also loves having his ball thrown to him, especially when it’s snowy out. He’ll dive under the snow to find the ball, bouncing out and racing back to me. I’ve found the HandsOn® Gloves for Grooming to be perfect for helping to get the little balls of snow off of Goose’s paws, belly, and back of his legs afterwards. I love that it gently addresses that, and he loves the full body scratches.

These items help Goose, and I enjoy winter together to the fullest, staying as active as possible. I’m looking forward to lots of fun adventures with my best buddy this winter season.