It’s way colder out than feels good for more than about ten minutes, and while multiple short walks keep Chico and me from going completely stir crazy, it really isn’t enough exercise to keep him happy. They say that if you can’t tire a dog physically, try to tire it mentally.

So this afternoon, I made him a treat-dispensing toy out of an old take-out container. Holes in the top and sides mean that if Chico rolls it around the treats inside will fall out.

Looking…

pushing…

pawing.

It keeps a dog happy and busy for a few minutes, and induces a nap, when the wind chill makes the human think it is a better idea to stay in.