Copper, also known as “Copper, Copper, Copper” is an 8-month old apricot toy poodle.

The Corppetts family of Spokane drove to Laclede, Idaho, to meet the Whitaker family and to choose a puppy. “Copper was the runt and our first choice of the entire litter,” says his human mother, Diane Corppetts. “Even though the runt is usually the last to be adopted, we all fell in love with his willingness to live and thrive.”

Copper loves to take kitty naps during the day, and prefers his humans be close by at all times. “He loves people and seems to have a deep need to be petted,” says Corppetts. “He is sweet, loving, and loyal, and has become a valued part of our family.”

No matter how hearty and fun-loving your dog is, as a pet parent you know there will come a time when it’s just too cold, snowy, icy, wet or windy for your pup to comfortably exercise outdoors. When the weather outside is frightful and the fire inside delightful, it’s important to find ways to help your dog stay active indoors where it’s safe and warm.

PetMd recommends dogs get 30 minutes to two hours of physical activity every day, with the specific amount that’s best for a dog depending on her age, size, breed and overall health. Pets who get plenty of exercise are happier, healthier and less likely to engage in destructive behaviors like chewing. The Petmate team offers five tips for helping your dog stay active indoors throughout the winter:

Play fetch indoors

Your dog’s favorite game doesn’t have to be just for outdoor fun. Indoor fetch toys like soft balls or flying discs allow your dog to safely exercise her body and her retrieving instincts indoors. Score bonus pet parenting points for tossing the toy in such a way that your pooch gets the extra exercise of navigating a furniture obstacle course to retrieve it.

Hide and seek with a twist

You loved this game as a kid and your dog will, too. Sneak off to a far part of the house and call her name. She’ll love the mental challenge of hunting for you and the sense of victory when she finds you.

Twice the treat

Every dog loves a treat, but just as you’re susceptible to packing on pounds during less active winter months, your pooch can be at risk for weight gain, too. This does not mean no snacks at all, just be sure to work in some exercise and double the enjoyment by making your dog work for a reward.

Walk in a winter wonderland

A dog’s tolerance for cold temperatures depends on many factors, including her size, breed and personal preference. A big dog with lots of hair will probably be better equipped to handle cold better than a small, short-haired pooch, but you know your dog best and you can tell when it’s too cold outside for her. Since evenings and nights are darker in winter, check out Petmate MaxGlow collars and leashes. They absorb light throughout the day and then glow at night to help make your dog more noticeable in the dark.

Cater to comfort, too

Everyone experiences the winter blues from time to time, when you’re stuck indoors. The climate and atmosphere can affect your dog, too. Be aware your dog may need some extra comfort and safety measures to weather the winter. Just as you dress her in a warm sweater for outdoor playtime, your dog may appreciate a warm, snug bed during the winter. The Aspen Pet Self-Warming Lounger Bed with reflective heat technologies requires no batteries or plug in to keep your pet warm and toasty.

For more information on how to care for your dog and other pets throughout the year, or to learn more about the wide variety of pet products available, visit petmate.com.