Best Activities For Australian Shepherds
As a veterinarian with a decade of experience and someone who runs a sanctuary for stray dogs and cats, I’ve worked with all kinds of breeds. But if there’s one breed that needs both mental and physical stimulation to stay happy, it’s the Australian Shepherd. These dogs were bred to work, and if you don’t give them a job, they’ll find one—usually in ways you won’t like.
Aussies are smart, energetic, and fiercely loyal. That means sitting around all day isn’t an option. If you’re not engaging them properly, don’t be surprised if they start herding your kids, chewing your furniture, or digging up your yard. To keep them happy, healthy, and well-behaved, here are the best activities you should be doing with your Australian Shepherd.
1. Herding Games: Let Them Do What They Were Born to Do
Australian Shepherds are herding dogs. It’s in their DNA. If you don’t give them an outlet for that instinct, they’ll create one—whether that means rounding up your family, chasing other pets, or running circles around anything that moves.
What You Can Do:
- If you have access to a herding club, sign them up for herding trials. Many organizations allow dogs to test their herding instincts on sheep, ducks, or cattle.
- No livestock? No problem. Try a game of “fetch with a purpose.” Use cones or markers and teach your Aussie to herd a ball or toy into a designated area.
Why It Works: It satisfies their natural herding instinct and provides structured mental stimulation.
2. Agility Training: A Perfect Challenge for Their Intelligence
Australian Shepherds thrive in agility courses. They’re fast, nimble, and incredibly intelligent, making them perfect for navigating obstacle courses.
What You Can Do:
- Set up a homemade agility course in your backyard using tunnels, jumps, and weave poles.
- Join an agility training class to work on their coordination, obedience, and endurance.
- Start with basic obstacles and gradually increase difficulty as they improve.
Why It Works: Agility training challenges both their body and mind while reinforcing their bond with you.
3. Hiking & Trail Running: Keep Up If You Can
If you love the outdoors, an Australian Shepherd is your ideal adventure buddy. These dogs need long, challenging walks or runs. A short stroll around the block? That’s not enough.
What You Can Do:
- Take them on hikes with varied terrain—rocks, water crossings, steep inclines—to keep them engaged.
- If you’re a runner, bring them along for trail runs. They’ll easily match your pace.
- Make sure to use a sturdy harness and check for signs of overexertion. Even high-energy dogs can get tired.
Why It Works: It provides intense physical exercise while exposing them to new sights and smells, which keeps their mind busy.
4. Puzzle Toys & Brain Games: Work That Mind
Aussies are problem solvers. If you don’t engage their brain, they will find something else to do—usually something destructive.
What You Can Do:
- Use treat-dispensing puzzle toys that require problem-solving.
- Play hide-and-seek by hiding treats or toys around the house for them to sniff out.
- Teach them advanced tricks like retrieving specific objects by name.
Why It Works: It keeps their mind sharp and prevents boredom-induced mischief.
5. Frisbee & Fetch: A Classic That Never Fails
Australian Shepherds have incredible athleticism and reflexes, making them excellent frisbee dogs. Unlike a casual game of fetch, frisbee adds an extra layer of skill and coordination.
What You Can Do:
- Start with short throws and gradually increase distance.
- Train them to jump and catch the frisbee mid-air—it’s a great way to burn energy fast.
- Use a soft, dog-safe frisbee to protect their teeth.
Why It Works: It combines their love for chasing with high-intensity exercise.
6. Dock Diving & Swimming: Burn Energy Without Impact
Some Australian Shepherds love water, while others need a little encouragement. Either way, swimming is an excellent way to exercise them without straining their joints.
What You Can Do:
- If your Aussie enjoys water, try dock diving. It’s a high-energy sport where dogs jump off a dock to retrieve a toy.
- If they’re hesitant, introduce them to shallow water first and use toys to encourage them to swim.
- Always supervise and use a dog life vest if necessary.
Why It Works: Swimming is a full-body workout that tires them out without excessive strain.
7. Obedience & Trick Training: Keep Them Sharp
An Australian Shepherd isn’t just smart—they want to learn. If you don’t give them structure, they’ll start making their own rules.
What You Can Do:
- Work on advanced obedience commands like heel, stay, and place.
- Teach complex tricks, like rolling over, playing dead, or even picking up their own toys.
- Make training sessions fun and rewarding to keep them engaged.
Why It Works: It provides mental stimulation and reinforces discipline.
Final Thoughts: Keep Them Busy, Keep Them Happy
Australian Shepherds must stay active—physically and mentally. If you don’t provide structured activities, they’ll create their own chaos. Whether it’s herding, agility, running, or brain games, find what works for your dog and make it a regular part of their routine.
