Turn over a new leaf this autumn and try something different with your dog. From checking out a new dog park to baking some treats or teaching a new trick, here are six activities to get you started.
As the days grow colder and the nights get longer, there might be fewer long walks or trips to the beach with your dog. But the following fun autumnal activities mean you can still have a great time together, whatever the weather.
1. Visit the dog park
When the weather is unpredictable, you might want to avoid going for long walks. Instead, a dog park is a great place for your dog to get plenty of mental and physical exercise, without the risk of getting caught in a storm.
Try one of Petplan’s Dog Adventure Parks, designed by a dog behaviourist to keep your pet happy and healthy. If your dog hasn’t tried agility, this is an ideal time to introduce them to the equipment. If they already love agility, create a course and see if you can beat your own personal best time.
2. Visit a pumpkin patch
Most dogs love visiting new places, as there’s always plenty for them to see and smell. Around Halloween, keep an eye out for any seasonal pumpkin patches opening in your area. These can be great fun for your dog to explore, but call ahead beforehand to make sure they’re dog-friendly.
Once there, keep your dog on the lead at all times. After you’ve chosen and carved your pumpkin, use the inside to make some tasty no-bake pumpkin treats for your dog.
3. Go for an autumn dog walk
Make the most of the crisp autumn days and head out for a walk. Whether you go for a short stroll or a longer hike, try exploring some new dog walks in your area.
Regular walks help provide the physical exercise your dog needs, but they’re also essential for mental stimulation. If the weather is very cold or rainy, consider investing in a dog coat in a bright colour that will stand out on gloomy days. These can help breeds with thin coats, such as greyhounds and boxers, to feel more cosy.
4. Set up an indoor treasure hunt
When it’s cold and rainy you might not want to go outside for a long walk. But the good news is there are plenty of ways to keep your dog mentally stimulated at home, too. Setting up an indoor treasure hunt is a great way to have plenty of fun together – no raincoats required!
You could also try giving your dog puzzle toys to extend their feed times; using a lick mat or stuffing a Kong toy with Xylitol-free peanut butter.
5. Bake some dog-friendly treats
If you’re rustling up some tasty autumnal treats, make sure your dog doesn’t miss out by making them something delicious, too. Try some Halloween-themed treats – such as beastly bone biscuits or eerie egg muffins – and your dog will likely want seconds!
To make sure your dog doesn’t put on too much weight, don’t feed them too many treats per day, and remember to account for the extra calories by reducing their usual food portion, if necessary.
6. Learn a new trick
On dark evenings, why not stay indoors and work on your dog’s training? Perhaps you want to teach them to walk nicely on the lead, give a high-five or even play hide-and-seek.
Spending time training and bonding with your dog throughout autumn can also help keep their minds occupied. Our pets can feel more stressed during Halloween and Bonfire Night, with busier streets and loud noises.
One thing to avoid: dressing up your dog
It might be tempting to think about dressing up your dog for Halloween – but this isn’t such a good idea. Dogs don’t enjoy wearing restrictive outfits, especially if they’ve never worn one before. Costumes might also make them overheat, restrict their breathing and can get caught on furniture.
What are your dog’s favourite autumn activities? Head over to Petplan’s Facebook page and share them with other dog owners.