Seasonal Enrichment Ideas for Active Large Dogs

If you have a big, energetic dog (think Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, or Golden Retriever), you’ve likely faced this challenge: how do you keep them sufficiently exercised and mentally stimulated—no matter the weather? Large breeds with boundless energy need more than a quick walk around the block to stay happy and healthy. Without the right outlets, even the sweetest pup can turn into a furry tornado (goodbye, couch cushions!).

The good news? With a little creativity and a plan for every season, you can give your dog new ways to thrive, burn energy, and bond with you all year long.

Why Seasonal Enrichment Matters for Large Dogs

Large, active dogs aren’t just “big puppies”—their brains and bodies crave a variety of challenges and opportunities to move. When left bored or under-stimulated, these breeds are more likely to develop problem behaviors such as chewing, digging, or excessive barking.

Enrichment means more than exercise—it’s about:

Channeling natural instincts (like scenting, retrieving, digging)
Offering new sights, sounds, and experiences
Building your dog’s confidence and resilience

Pro tip: Rotate activities by season to keep things exciting and avoid burnout (for both of you!).

Spring: Reawaken Adventure with Outdoor Games

When the chill finally fades, your yard or local park can become your dog’s favorite playground. Big breeds love space to stretch out and smell the flowers (and, let’s be honest, roll in the mud).

Ultimate Fetch Variations

Fetch is a classic large dog favorite, but you can keep it fresh:

Hill Fetch: Throw uphill for extra work; let your pup jog downhill to recover
Water Retrieve: At a safe, shallow lake, try a floating toy—Labradors especially love this!

Quick tip: For strong chewers like Huskies or Rottweilers, use sturdy balls like the Chuckit! Ultra. Always check toys for wear to prevent choking.

Agility Lite in Your Backyard

Set up a mini agility course using:

Old broomsticks (jumps)
Laundry baskets (weave poles)
Towels or blankets (tunnels)

Keep it low and simple—the aim is fun, not strict competition.

Spring Scent Games

Large breeds like Bloodhounds and Shepherds excel at scent work. Hide treats or your dog’s favorite toy in the grass or under flowerpots and let them sniff it out.

Summer: Stay Cool with Water Fun and Evening Walks

In summer, safety comes first: Large dogs overheat more easily. Plan activities for cooler mornings or evenings, and always bring water.

Dog-Friendly Water Activities

Backyard Splash Pool: Even non-water breeds often love a kiddie pool. Supervise play and always empty after use.
Sprinkler Chase: Let your pup run through a sprinkler—great for breeds with thick coats, like Newfoundlands and Malamutes.
Lake Day: Many Retrievers and German Shepherds are natural swimmers. Use a canine life-vest for safety.

Safety warning: Never let dogs drink pool or lake water. Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) in lakes can be deadly.

Nighttime Scent Walks

Practice leash walking after dark when it’s cooler. Large breeds love tracking new scents in the evening air!

Frozen Treat Puzzles

Fill a Kong or sturdy rubber toy with plain yogurt and freeze. Big jaws (like those of Boxers or Dobermans) will stay busy (and cool) as they work to lick it clean.

Fall: Make Use of Crisp Days and Piles of Fun

Cooler weather? Perfect for ramping up activity! Large breeds thrive when the temperature drops.

Leaf Pile Romps

Rake up a leaf pile and let your dog jump, burrow, and play. This taps into digging and foraging instincts—plus, great photo ops!

Quick tip: Check for hidden sticks or sharp objects before letting your dog loose.

Hiking Expeditions

Long-legged breeds like Weimaraners and Dalmatians love a change of scenery. Look for local trails and always use a sturdy harness or leash.

Pro tip: Bring portable water and keep an eye out for burrs and ticks in your dog’s coat.

Fall-Themed Puzzle Toys

Rotate new food puzzle toys with pumpkin or sweet potato (no spices or sugar!). Bulldogs and Great Danes benefit from slower, mindful eating—puzzles make mealtime last.

Winter: Indoor Brain Games and Safe Outdoor Adventures

Even the toughest large breeds can get bored in winter. Mix safe outdoor time with cozy indoor enrichment.

Snowy Day Play

Breeds like Huskies and Bernese Mountain Dogs adore snow play. Try:

Fetching snowballs (supervise—don’t let your dog eat too much snow!)
Building a dog-friendly obstacle course in the yard
Short “sniff walks” around the block (check for salted sidewalks that might irritate paws)

Safety warning: Watch for signs of frostbite or discomfort. Large dogs can slip on ice too.

At-Home Indoor Activities

Hide and Seek: Hide treats in different rooms and let your dog hunt
DIY Tug-of-War: Use a strong rope toy (inspect for fraying often)
Training New Tricks: Mental work tires big dogs out! Teach practical cues like “find it” or “tidy up” their toys

Food Scavenger Hunts

Scatter kibble or favorite treats around one room and let your dog track them down—provides great mental stimulation when outdoor options are limited.

Breed-Specific Ideas

Every breed has unique needs! Here’s how to tailor enrichment:

Retrievers: Love swimming and fetch; alternate between games and cuddles
Herding breeds (Border Collie, Aussie): Thrive on jobs—try puzzle feeders that make them “work” for food
Guardian breeds (Great Pyrenees, Mastiff): Enjoy scent work and “watching” activities—set up a perch near a window
Sighthounds: Appreciate soft, safe running (off-leash in secure areas only)
Working breeds (Boxers, Rottweilers): Need strength games; add tug and carrying toys to the mix

Key Takeaways: Keep Your Big Dog Happy All Year

Change up activities by season to meet physical and mental needs
Monitor for overheating or frostbite (safety always comes first!)
Mix high-energy exercise with mental challenges like puzzles and scent games
Rotate toys and games to prevent boredom
Adjust for age, breed, and health—ask your vet before starting intense new activities

What’s your large dog’s favorite seasonal adventure? Share in the comments below or tag us on Instagram @pawbrilliance—your story could inspire a fellow dog parent!