How to Keep Your Poodle Active Year-Round (Even in Alaska!)

How to Keep Your Poodle Active Year-Round (Even in Alaska!)

At Galavanting Poodles, we’re no strangers to the changing seasons and unpredictable weather that comes with living in Alaska. But no matter the time of year, our poodles still expect—and deserve—opportunities to move their bodies, engage their minds, and explore the world around them.

Standard poodles are athletic, intelligent, and full of drive. Whether it's snowing, raining, or shining, they thrive when they have a job to do or an adventure to chase.

Here’s how we keep our poodles active year-round in the Last Frontier.

Get Outdoors, No Matter the Season

One of the most significant benefits of living in Alaska is the incredible access to nature. Our poodles love to hike through the forest, run across frozen lakes, and splash in muddy rivers. As long as it’s safe, we get outside.

I enjoy hiking when there is light in the winter. This means I’m looking for a tiny window of opportunity! We usually hike from late morning to early afternoon. Winter hikes aren’t as long as summer hikes. Winter hikes tend to be more intense, so the shorter intervals still work in our favor for good physical exercise.
In the summer, we hit the trails early to midday. I’m always working on the balance between heat and bugs. In Alaska, a nice, full sun hike means fewer bugs. This typically means I hit the trails in the early afternoon. However, the cool mornings are great for a longer hike when the heat can become too intense due to the strenuous nature of the hike. Alaska might be rugged, but our poodles are tough, and they love it.

Mental Stimulation Counts as Activity

During long stretches of rain, bitter cold snaps, or when the roads are just too icy, we shift our focus indoors. Activity doesn’t always mean physical exertion.

Poodles are incredibly intelligent, and they require mental stimulation to stay balanced. We work on advanced obedience training, problem-solving games, and scent work. Teaching a new trick or reinforcing an old one is a great way to channel their energy and strengthen our bond.

Enrichment Keeps the Cabin from Feeling Too Small

Living in a log cabin with a pack of poodles has taught me the value of creative enrichment. We rotate toys often, use puzzle feeders, and set up simple obstacle courses in the house.

Even something as small as hiding treats in boxes or under laundry baskets can provide a fun challenge. We also play controlled indoor games, such as tug or hallway fetch, to burn off energy without damaging the furniture.

Stick to a Routine

Poodles do best when they know what to expect. Our dogs have a daily rhythm that includes time for structured training, free play, rest, and meals. Even in the darkest winter months, we maintain that schedule.

It keeps them calm and focused, making them easier to live with. When your dogs know they’ll have a chance to run or play every day, they’re more settled indoors.

Know Your Dog’s Drive

Not every poodle wants to scale a mountain—and that’s okay. Some of our dogs are true athletes, and others are more moderate in their activity needs.

What matters most is that they have an outlet suited to their personality and structure. At Galavanting Poodles, we raise dogs with reliable temperaments and drives so they can thrive in homes that match their lifestyle.

Keeping It All in Balance

Keeping your poodle active is not about doing the most; it's about doing the right things. It’s about doing what’s right for your dog, your environment, and your life.

Whether you live in Alaska or anywhere else, the key is consistency, creativity, and connection. Your poodle will thank you for it.