❄️ Best Winter Activities for Your Aussie
- Jill
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Winter doesn’t slow an Australian Shepherd down - it just gives them new ways to play, explore, and burn off that endless energy. Here are some fun, safe winter activities your Aussie will love both indoors and outside.
🐾 1. Snow Hikes
Aussies thrive on adventure, and 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 all the hidden gem trails, walking paths, and more hiding right in your county 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 and it doesn't matter if your dog doesn't bring them back to you!!! I love this snowball maker- GAME CHANGER in snowball fun!
🧠 3. Indoor Enrichment Games
Cold days are perfect for brain work. Try:
Treats & bones indoor scavenger hunt is a Sunset Hill Aussie favorite! You can 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 and make it fun for both of you! This is a great time to make a short winter Dog Trick Bucket List. Some of Sunset Hill Aussie's favorite tricks are:
"Lime Game" I was a skeptic on how easy this would be, & I was thrilled to find out how FAST my dogs learned this.
Check us out playing the Lime Game here: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DAywhT1sRn_/
"Leg weave" So fun & much easier than you think (I promise)!
Check out this great tutorial here:https://youtu.be/NPlisMpiTL0?si=LBBYgjFLsdY-ApL0
"Airplane," which is "jump" over your arms.
Check out this great tutorial here https://youtu.be/Ke0kgyZl4zY?si=nbmxU2-UAQ75gPDX
"Dead" is always a winner when friends are over!
Easy tutorial here: https://youtu.be/E_gT_snmtP0?si=rilGoAf7tQt0hYvF
🧣 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, as well as burn off energy!
