10 Fun Outdoor Winter Activities With Dogs and Owners

Winter can be a magical time for outdoor adventures with your dog. Whether you’re a fan of crisp, snowy hikes or cozy walks through frosty landscapes, winter opens up a whole new world of possibilities for bonding with your dog.

The cold months don’t have to be a season of indoor boredom—there are tons of activities to keep both of you active, entertained, and making the most of the season together. In this guide, we’re diving into some fun winter activities with dogs that will keep you both happy and healthy while the temperature drops.

10 Fun Outdoor Winter Activities With Dogs

Check out these fun and unique activities to bond with your dog this winter!

1. Snow Hikes and Winter Walks

There’s something special about winter hikes with your dog. The quiet crunch of snow underfoot, the serene white landscapes, and the crisp air make for a refreshing change from your usual walking routes.

Snow hikes are not only great exercise for both of you but also an opportunity to explore trails that look entirely different once covered in snow. If you and your dog enjoy scenic walks, winter might just be your favorite season. Many parks and trails that are bustling in summer become peaceful and empty, offering a more serene experience.

Pro tip: Protect your dog’s paws with booties, and don’t forget to use reflective gear for those shorter winter days. Safety first, especially when daylight is in short supply.

2. Playing Fetch in the Snow

Who says fetch is just for summer? Dogs love to chase things year-round, and snow adds an extra element of fun to the game. The trick is using toys that won’t disappear into the white abyss—brightly colored, durable toys work best to keep them visible.

You can even bury the toys under shallow snow for an extra challenge. This gives your dog an added mental workout as they dig for their prize. Plus, all that running and jumping helps burn off energy, keeping your dog warm and active despite the cold.

Not to mention, it’s a great way for you to stay warm, too—nothing like throwing a few snowballs and getting in some cardio while your dog bounds after their favorite toy.

3. Skijoring

If you and your dog are on the more adventurous side, skijoring might be the ultimate winter activity for you. This sport combines cross-country skiing with dog power—essentially, your dog pulls you on skis. It’s a fast-paced, thrilling way to enjoy the snow together, especially if your dog is a high-energy breed that loves to run.

Huskies, Retrievers, and Malamutes are natural fits for skijoring, but even smaller, energetic dogs can give it a try. All you need is a good harness for your dog and a pair of skis for yourself. Start with shorter, easy runs to help your dog get used to the idea, and before long, you’ll both be zooming through snowy fields like pros.

4. Dog Sledding Adventures

Ever wondered what it’s like to mush a sled team? Well, you don’t need a full pack of sled dogs to get started—many individual dogs love to pull, and dog sledding is the perfect outlet for them in winter. Even smaller dogs can participate in lighter sledding activities, pulling small loads or joining in on sled rides over shorter distances.

If you’re new to the idea, look for beginner-friendly dog sledding tours that allow you to experience the thrill without needing a lot of experience. These tours usually come with experienced guides who can teach you the basics, so you can focus on enjoying the ride with your dog.

Before jumping in, make sure your dog is physically fit and trained for pulling. Not every dog is a born sledder, but if your pup has the drive, it can be an exhilarating way to bond during winter.

5. Winter Agility Courses

If your dog loves agility courses, why not take the fun outside and make the snow part of the game? Set up an agility course in your yard with tunnels, jumps, and weave poles—snow will add an extra layer of challenge for your dog, turning their usual training into something new and exciting.

Even if you don’t have agility equipment, you can get creative by using snowbanks, fallen branches, or piles of snow as natural obstacles. Your dog gets both a mental and physical workout as they navigate the new course, and the added difficulty of snow underfoot will keep them on their toes (or paws, rather).

Agility exercises are a great way to burn off some of that winter energy while keeping your dog mentally stimulated. Plus, running around in the snow will tire them out—meaning more peaceful, cozy nights for both of you.

6. Building a Snow Maze

If you’re feeling a little creative (and have access to a shovel), you can make your own snow maze for your dog right in your backyard. Carve out paths in the snow, creating a winding maze for your dog to explore. It’s a simple yet super fun activity that keeps them engaged as they sniff their way through the twists and turns.

Want to up the ante? Hide some of your dog’s favorite treats or toys along the way, turning the maze into an interactive puzzle. This gives them an added incentive to navigate the maze and adds an element of challenge to the adventure.

It’s mentally stimulating, fun, and requires little more than a shovel and some space. Plus, once you’re done, your dog will be happily worn out from all the exploring.

7. Snowshoeing with Your Dog

For those who love hiking but find deep snow too much of a barrier, snowshoeing is the perfect solution. Strap on some snowshoes, and bring your dog along for the adventure. It’s a great way to explore deeper snow without getting bogged down, and your dog will love the new sights and smells that come with a snowy forest or field.

Choose dog-friendly trails, protect your pup’s paws with boots if the snow gets too icy, and bring plenty of water—dogs can get dehydrated even in the cold.

8. Dog-Friendly Ice Fishing

If your winter vibe is more about relaxing than racing through snow-covered fields, ice fishing with your dog could be a peaceful way to spend a day. Dogs love to explore new environments, and ice fishing gives them the opportunity to sniff around while you enjoy the quiet and calm of a frozen lake.

Just be cautious around the ice, especially near fishing holes, and keep your dog on a leash to avoid any accidents. If your dog is going to be stationary for long periods, dress them in a warm coat to keep them cozy during the chillier parts of the day.

9. Tug-of-War with Winter Gear

You don’t need fancy equipment to keep your dog entertained in winter. A good ol’ game of tug-of-war is easy to take outdoors, especially with a durable rope toy or even an old scarf.

For an extra wintery twist, try freezing the toy first—it’ll add some crunch and make the game a little more interesting. Tug-of-war is great for burning off energy, keeping your dog active and entertained even on the coldest days. Plus, it doesn’t require much space, making it perfect for smaller yards or quick outdoor play sessions.

10. Snowball Fetch

Snowball fetch is exactly what it sounds like—toss soft snowballs for your dog to catch mid-air. Many dogs love jumping for snowballs without the added risk of swallowing anything harmful. It’s lighthearted, requires minimal gear, and is sure to keep both you and your dog laughing.

Just make sure the snow is soft and fluffy—icy snowballs could hurt your dog’s mouth if they’re packed too hard. Snowball fetch is a great option for short play sessions that leave everyone (dog included) smiling.

Conclusion

Winter offers so many ways to stay active and have fun with your dog. Whether you’re braving the trails for a snowy hike, trying a new sport like skijoring, or simply playing fetch in your backyard, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the colder months.

So, bundle up, grab your dog, and head outside. These winter activities with dogs will keep you both fit, happy, and entertained while you enjoy the beauty of the season.

Looking for more tips on keeping your dog active year-round? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on dog care, training, and seasonal fun!