Fall is the perfect time to get in as many outdoor activities as possible before winter arrives. With the crisp air, colorful leaves, and shorter days it is an ideal time to spend quality time with your dog before the busy holiday season begins. 

Go to a pumpkin patch

Bring your dog to a dog-friendly pumpkin patch. It is a fun way for both your pet and you to explore all of the new smells, take in a different seasonal environment and even socialize with other dogs and people. The cooler fall weather makes it comfortable for longer walks, and you can snap some cute photos of your pup with pumpkins while you’re there. You turn this into a very simple tradition that you look forward to every year. 

Hike

The weather is much more comfortable in the fall than the summer to go for a hike. It is the perfect way to get you and your pet out of the house and active, while also getting to experience new smells and environments. The cooler air means you can stay out longer without worrying about the heat, and the trails are often quieter this time of year, making it easier to explore new paths and enjoy peace together. The changing leaves add a beautiful backdrop for every hike, and your dog will love the new sights and scents along the way. It is a great way to make the most of the season while spending quality time with your dog.

Bake homemade pumpkin dog treats

Everyone enjoys a seasonal treat, so why shouldn’t your dog also get involved in it. Baking homemade dog treats is a fun and rewarding activity that lets you spend quality time with your pup. Pumpkin is not only delicious, but it is also great for your dog's digestion and a good source of vitamin A, C, and E, making it the perfect ingredient for healthy dog treats. You don’t need fancy ingredients, just whole wheat flour, whole oats, and pumpkin puree to make very simple but yummy dog treats. The best part is seeing your dog’s excitement as you bake and they might be begging for more. You can even get creative and make them even more festive by shaping them into a pumpkin. Click here for the recipe.

Leaf Pile Play

One of the simplest and most fun fall activities is letting your dog play in piles of leaves. You can rake a few safe piles in your yard or find a quiet spot at the park, and your dog will have a blast jumping, running, and sniffing through them. Make sure to check prior to your dog entering that there are not any sharp sticks in the piles for their safety. This is a great way for them to burn off energy while exploring new textures and smells. To keep them engaged, you can add more leaves to the pile each week or let them discover new piles on your walks. Plus, it’s an easy way to get some cute, candid photos of your dog enjoying the season while spending extra time together outside.