From Leaf Piles to Popsicles: Seasonal Games Your Dog Will Love
May 23,2025 | Yee
Dogs don’t check the calendar—but their noses twitch with excitement when seasons change. Whether it’s chasing snowballs in winter or munching frozen watermelon in summer, playing with your dog can stimulate their brain, strengthens your relationship, and, let’s face it, makes you feel like the best dog parent ever.
Spring: Bark and Branch Art
Let your dog sniff out some sticks and leaves on your walk, heir nose will lead the way in this sniff-tastic treasure hunt.
Summer: Ice Treat Treasure Hunt
This game is more than just a refreshing summer treat—it’s a sensory enrichment exercise that your dog’s brain and belly will thank you for. Here’s how to do it right:
- Drop your dog's favorite vegetables or fruits into paper cups.
- Pour in enough water to cover.
- Freeze overnight.
- Pop the treat out and give it to your pup!
According to Chelsea Barstow in Happy Dog, frozen treats help regulate a dog’s body temperature and also activate their natural foraging instincts. The varied textures (cold, crunchy, chewy) keep their brain engaged, similar to the concept of “enrichment feeding” used in canine behavior therapy. The American Kennel Club also highlights that licking and chewing frozen treats can release calming endorphins, reducing anxiety during hot or overstimulating summer days.
Fall: Leaf Pile Treasure Hunt
When the trees start to shed, rake up a big pile of dry leaves, then toss in your dog’s favorite squeaky toy or ball. Now your dog won’t just search—they’ll dive headfirst into the pile, tail wagging like a flag, leaves flying everywhere. The rustling sound, the unique crunch under their paws, the movement of hidden toys—it all taps into your dog’s prey drive and natural curiosity. It’s a sensory party.
The randomness of the leaf pile triggers problem-solving skills and playful energy, especially in high-drive or intelligent breeds.
Winter: Snow Toy Hide & Seek
Grab a ball or tug toy and gently toss it into a small snow mound you’ve created. Then tell your dog, “Find it!” and step back. You’ll witness something wild—ears perked, nose twitching, paws digging. Snow mutes scent slightly, making this an excellent brain game. As Chelsea Barstow notes in Happy Dog, even moderate problem-solving challenges can help reduce canine boredom and behavioral issues.
This game also helps burn off energy when long walks are limited by icy weather. The digging and searching engage multiple muscle groups, and the cold provides natural resistance training.
To level it up: bury toys with strong scents, or use food-dispensing balls in the snow. You’ll be amazed how focused and persistent your dog becomes.
Dogs don’t ask for much. A game, a treat, a moment of your attention—they light up. Seasonal games are such a simple way to enrich their lives. Now, go play!