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Adventure Dog 2026: Get Muddy April 12

A smiling participant and her muddy border collie resting on a wooden obstacle during the Adventure Dog 4km cross-country course at Wandin Park Estate.


Ruff and Ready: Australia’s Muddiest Dog Event Returns to the Yarra Valley

Australia’s largest cross-country event for dogs and their humans is back: bigger, muddier, and set to take on the Yarra Valley. 

Adventure Dog returns on Sunday 12 April 2026, bringing Australia’s most loved canine challenge back to Wandin Park Estate in Victoria.

The Challenge

Hosted by Animal Aid, the event sees dog lovers and their four-legged teammates tackle a 4km course featuring 25 obstacles, water crossings, and plenty of mud. Whether you choose to run, jog, or walk, the focus is firmly on teamwork and fun, making it accessible for all fitness levels.
Two smiling participants and their dogs—a French Mastiff and a White Swiss Shepherd—navigating a colourful ball pit and hay bale obstacle at Adventure Dog 2026.
A ball at every turn: Large breeds like French Mastiffs and Swiss Shepherds prove that Adventure Dog is just as much about play as it is about the mud.

Now in its eighth year, Adventure Dog has raised more than $500,000 for animals in need. More than 1,000 dog-and-human teams are expected to transform Wandin Park Estate into a vibrant hub of community energy.

Purpose Behind the Paws

Adventure Dog is more than just a physical challenge. Funds raised directly support Animal Aid’s mission to end companion animal homelessness. These vital funds provide:

✔️ Emergency shelter and care

✔️ Veterinary treatment

✔️ Rehabilitation and rehoming services

Every muddy pawprint on the course helps another animal find safety and a "first-rate second chance."
“Adventure Dog is joy, mess and purpose rolled into one,” says Animal Aid CEO Mark Menze.
“People end up covered in mud and leave knowing they’ve helped change an animal’s life. That’s why this event keeps growing.”

A diverse team of participants in matching green shirts guiding their dogs, including a Golden Retriever and a Spaniel, over a large log obstacle at Wandin Park Estate.
Teamwork makes the dream work: Participants of all ages and fitness levels tackle the log obstacles together to raise funds for Animal Aid.



Event Details & Registration

Participants can enter individually or as part of a team with friends, family, or colleagues. Animal Aid is also calling for volunteers to help deliver this landmark event.

  • When: Sunday 12 April 2026
  • Where: Wandin Park Estate, 305 Victoria Rd, Wandin North VIC
  • Who: Participants aged 12+ and dogs 12 months and older
  • Registrations: $75 per human

A small Jack Russell Terrier and its owner crawling together under a low rope obstacle during the Adventure Dog cross-country course.
Small but mighty: Whether you're a Jack Russell or a Giant Breed, every dog (and human!) gets to experience the thrill of the 'Canine Crawl'.














About Animal Aid

Animal Aid is a not-for-profit animal welfare organisation that has been helping animals in need for over 70 years. Relying on community support and fundraising, they provide shelter, veterinary treatment, and rehoming services to thousands of animals every year. 

Visitwww.animalaid.org.au | Address: 35 Killara Road, Coldstream VIC

Follow the Journey: 📘 Facebook: @VictorianAnimalAid | 📸 Instagram: @animalaid.vic | 🎥 TikTok: @animalaid.vic
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