It’s official! Autumn has been here for over a week now. What that means for most people in the US is that it’s starting to get cold. Burr! With temperatures still in the fifties and sixties the next few weeks, it’s time to get outside and play with your pup before the snow comes. Not sure what to do this Autumn with your puppy? Check out our list!
Go to a Cider Mill
Cider Mills are big deals in the northern and Midwest states because Autumn is the perfect season for apples. Take your pup to the local cider mill so that you can spend some quality time together. There will be other dogs there, so if your dog isn’t as socialized as you’d like, you may be able to let them make new friends! Don’t forget to bundle up if it’s cold out there. Just because your fur baby has a fur coat, doesn’t mean that it’s going to be effective at keeping the cold out. Try putting them in a sweater or a fur coat if their winter fur hasn’t come in yet.
Go to the Dog Park
It’s not yet cold enough that the dog parks will be deserted. Odds are, all of your dog’s friends will still be coming until temperatures drop below freezing. Dogs and their humans both are known to gain a few pounds during the winter, so letting your dog bounce around with their friends will give them the extra exercise they need to keep the weight off during the winter.
Stay Active
Just because the temperatures are dropping doesn’t mean that you should let your dog sit around all day. Take your dog for a walk to keep them active. If it’s just too cold out for the two of you, try switching up your routine and going for a walk in the afternoon while the sun is still shining.
Remember, walking is so crucial to the overall health and wellness of your pup. Not to mention, they love getting to go outside and sniff all of the smells the world has to offer. Walks will keep your dog calmer during periods of anxiousness and help them sleep better at night. When the snow does come, don’t let that stop you and your pooch from getting exercise. Instead, bundle up and get out there.
Snap a Photo
Let’s face it; the pretty autumn colors are hard to hate. Bring your dog outside with you when you rake the leaves and take photos again with trees and leaves as the backdrop. We know you won’t be surprised at how great your dog looks in natural light, but by taking them outside with you, they can spend time frolicking around while you snap some great photos.
Go for a Ride
Okay, so this one isn’t so much about activity and fitness, but more about letting your dog have fun. Going for rides will be much more difficult when snow and ice come, so make sure to get in some adventurous car rides before winter hits. If your dog loves sticking his or her head out of the window, make sure that the air isn’t going to be too cold to handle.
On your way home from the car ride, consider stopping at the local ice cream shop and getting your dog a vanilla treat! Some donut shops also offer doggy donut holes. If you’re not sure which places offer treats for your pup, you can stop at the pet store and buy them their very own biscuit.
Get into Healthy Habits
Winter is the time of bad habits. When snow falls, both humans and dogs alike become inactive and take less care of themselves. Laziness can be cured, however, by getting into healthy habits now.
If you don’t brush your dog’s teeth, now is the time to start. Brushing prevents periodontal disease and promotes less smelly kisses. Make sure your fur baby brushes every single day, just like you!
Invest in Time Together
Even if you have inactive periods this winter, invest time into your relationship with your pup. Winter is great for cuddling to stay warm and spending extra special quality time together. Even the simple act of watching television while petting your dog can benefit their physical and mental health.
What’s your favorite thing to do with your pup? Let us know in the comments below!
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