Fun Winter Activities for Your Australian Shepherd
- Jill
- Jan 20
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 3
🐾 1. Snow Hikes
Aussies thrive on adventure! Winter trails are full of new scents and textures. Keep the walk a little shorter than usual, but let them enjoy the fresh snow under their paws.
Dog snowshoes are a great idea if you plan to stay outdoors for extra-long hikes in deep snow.
SSH's PRO TIP: Use the Trail Link App or Website to find hidden gem trails, walking paths, and more right in your county that you never knew about!
🎾 2. Fetch in the Snow
Here at Sunset Hill Aussies, my dogs all love a great game of fetch!
Frisbee or Ball: A bright-colored ball or Frisbee makes a snowy fetch even more exciting. The resistance of the snow adds an extra workout for your energetic pup.
Snowballs: So much fun! It doesn't matter if your dog doesn't bring them back to you! I love this snowball maker – it’s a GAME CHANGER for snowball fun!
🧠 3. Indoor Enrichment Games
Cold days are perfect for brain work! Try these activities:
Treats & Bones Indoor Scavenger Hunt: This is a Sunset Hill Aussie favorite! Hide treats behind the couch, under pillows or cups, or even tucked inside a dog toy on the floor.
Puzzle Feeders: Easy peasy fun!
“Find It” Scent Games with Solo Cups: This is SSH Oakley's FAVORITE game!
⛄ 4. Backyard Snow Maze or Snow Paths
If you get heavy snow, shovel little pathways or even a maze in your yard. Hide little treats along your snow path to make it a rewarding adventure! Aussies love the fun challenge, and this is great for backyard fun on a snowy day.
🏡 5. Indoor Skill Building
After play, give your Aussie a NEW skill to learn! Make it fun for both of you! This is a great time to create a short winter Dog Trick Bucket List. Some of Sunset Hill Aussie's favorite tricks are:
"Lime Game": I was a skeptic about how easy this would be, and I was thrilled to find out how FAST my dogs learned this.
- Check us out playing the Lime Game here: Lime Game Video
"Leg Weave": So fun and much easier than you think (I promise)!
- Check out this great tutorial here: Leg Weave Tutorial
"Airplane": This is where your dog jumps over your arms.
- Check out this great tutorial here: Airplane Tutorial
"Dead": This is always a winner when friends are over!
- Easy tutorial here: Dead Tutorial
🧣 Final Tip
Aussies typically handle cold weather well! But always remember to watch for shivering, ice buildup on paws, or signs they’re ready to head inside.
Winter is a perfect time to find new ways to mentally engage your Aussie and burn off energy!
With these activities, you can keep your Australian Shepherd happy and healthy all winter long! Enjoy the season together!
