6 Perfect Fall Activities to Do with your Dog

The long, hot days of summer may feel like a distant memory for most of us, but we’re not ready to hibernate just yet. In fact, fall might be our favorite season of all. The crisp air, changing colors and, of course, the sport, make it the ideal time to enjoy the great outdoors with your pooch, minus the extreme perspiration.

Here are our top picks for fun activities you can do with your pup when the temperature drops.

1. Pumpkin picking

On the hunt for the perfect pumpkin for your Halloween jack-o-lantern? Venture beyond the supermarket and head to your nearest farm or pumpkin patch. Many places welcome well-behaved dogs so bring your pup along to help sniff out the ideal specimen. Just be sure to check the dog policy before you set off and don’t forget the poop bags just in case!

2. Trick or treating

If your pup isn’t easily spooked, why not bring him along for the walk as you take the kids trick or treating? With so much candy up for grabs, we recommend keeping him on the leash and coming equipped with some dog-friendly treats to make sure he doesn’t miss out.

3. Take a hike

You know those beautiful autumn days when the sun is shining but the air is cool and fresh? If you ask us, that’s the best time for you and your pup to get out and about in nature. Not only are you and your dog at less risk of heat stroke and dehydration as you would be hiking in summer’s high temperatures, the season’s red and golden hues are sure to make the scenery even more spectacular. Research your route before you set off to be sure of the dog policy and always bring plenty of fresh clean water.

If you’re new to hiking with your pup you’ll find plenty more tips on our blog.

4. Tailgating

For many, fall means one thing, and that’s football. Celebrate the new season the right way with a tailgating bonanza for the whole family, four-legged members included. Do your research beforehand to make sure you’re heading to a dog friendly area and remember to bring:

• A leash – fun as it would be to let your pup roam free, it’s important that he stays tethered to keep him safe and away from your fellow tailgaters’ food.
• Water – tailgating can be a long day out so make sure your pup stays hydrated by giving him access to clean drinking water at all times.
• Treats – a peanut butter kong is just the thing to keep an overexcited pooch occupied while you’re tucking into your BBQ.
• Poop bags – don’t let your pup be a party pooper. Take your dog to a designated area for regular toilet breaks and be sure to pick up after him if he makes a mess.

5. Camping

What could be a more perfect autumnal activity than snuggling round a campfire under a clear starlit sky and chowing down on s’mores? Nope. We can’t think of anything either. Camping at this time of year is magical and, provided your chosen site is dog-friendly, there’s no reason your pup can’t join in the fun. He’ll love rustling through the autumn foliage just as much as you’ll love watching him play. Here are some great tips for camping with your pup and our top suggestions for dog-friendly campsites in the US and UK.

6. Hit the beach

This may feel like more of a summer pastime but, in fact, dogs can have just as much, if not more fun at the beach during the quieter off-peak months. Not only do many beaches relax their strict policies towards dogs during this time, the cooler weather means there’s no need to worry about burnt paws on the blisteringly hot sand and they are at a much lower risk of overheating. However, there are still a few important things to remember:

• Make sure your dog can swim
• Always supervise your pup
• If you see him drinking sea water, stop him immediately
• Fresh, clean water
• Leash
• Toys!

Check out this blog post for our essential guide to taking your pup to the beach.

We hope you enjoy this beautiful season as much as we do and we’d love to hear about your favorite activities to do with your pup in the fall. Please leave us a comment below.