Winter in Minnesota doesn’t mean staying cooped up inside—it’s the perfect season to get out and enjoy some fun with your furry friends! From dog-friendly events to cozy indoor activities, here are some of the best ways to make the most of winter with your dog.
Doggie Depot at Union Depot
If you’re looking for the ultimate dog-friendly winter event, Doggie Depot at Union Depot is the place to be! This annual event transforms the historic train station into a dog lover’s paradise with vendors, rescues, and activities tailored to your four-legged friend. It’s a great way to socialize, shop, and experience a unique winter outing with your pup.
Winter Festivals & Attractions
Minnesota’s winter festivals are magical, but not all of them are pup-approved. Here’s a quick breakdown of where you can and can’t bring your furry friend:
- Klondike Derby – A must-see winter spectacle, but it’s best to leave the pups at home for this one. Sadly it has been cancelled the past two years due to lack of snow. But its a must see event in the future
- Delano Ice Palace – A stunning ice attraction that welcomes dogs! Bundle up and take a stroll through this frozen wonderland.
- Ice Castles & Ice Maze – While breathtaking to visit, these attractions require you to keep your dog at home. Plan a visit for yourself while your pup enjoys a warm nap at home.
Winter Walks & Adventures
A fresh snowfall makes for the perfect scenic walk. Minnesota offers numerous trails and parks that remain open throughout the winter. Popular dog-friendly spots include:
- Minnehaha Falls – See the frozen falls in all their glory.
- Lebanon Hills Regional Park – Great for a snowy hike with your pup.
- Elm Creek Park Reserve – Offers spacious trails for you and your dog to explore.
Make sure to bundle up and protect your pup’s paws from the cold with dog booties or paw wax!
Indoor Training & Socialization
Cold days are a great time to work on training! Many dog-friendly stores allow leashed pets, making them great for socialization and obedience practice. Consider:
- Home Depot & Lowe’s – Perfect for practicing loose leash walking in a new environment. Call ahead if you are unsure if the location nearest you is pet friendly
- Pet-friendly schools & community centers – Some offer open spaces for training and socializing. Check out indoor dog parks like Unleashed Hops and Hounds
Mini Photo Sessions with K Schulz Photography
Capture the winter season with your pup at Valentine Minis at Tonkadale Greenhouse! These seasonal mini sessions with K Schulz Photography offer a fun and festive way to create lasting memories of you and your dog. Also stay tuned for March and April mini plans
Dog-Friendly Indoor Breweries
Minnesota has a fantastic brewery scene, and many spots welcome dogs inside. Cozy up with your pup and enjoy a local brew at places like:
- Forgotten Star Brewing (Fridley) Nine Mile Brewing (Bloomington) Excelsior Brewing (excelsior) are just a few. check if they are dog friendly indoors before heading out
These breweries offer a warm escape from the cold while letting your dog socialize in a relaxed environment.
Sniffari at a Greenhouse
Let your dog explore new scents and get a taste of spring by visiting a dog-friendly greenhouse. Great options include:
- Tonkadale Greenhouse, Lost in the Forest, Sailer’s Greenhouse, and Bachman’s are all dog friendly greenhouse to check out and support. While you’re there, pick out a new plant to brighten up your home and bring a bit of greenery into the winter season.
Indoor sports and Acitivities
There are locations that allow you to bring your dog in for dog sports like agility, fast cat, barn hunt and event dock diving. The Dog Tank has a rental pool as well as barn hunt classes
Enjoy Winter with Your Dog!
No matter the temperature, there are plenty of ways to keep your pup entertained and active during a Minnesota winter. Whether you’re exploring ice palaces, cozying up in a brewery, or training indoors, there’s something for every dog and their owner to enjoy. Stay warm and have fun out there!
What are your favorite winter activities with your dog? Let us know so we can share with others
