Spring and summer feel like the obvious choices when you’re planning things to do with your dog. Dog parks, beaches, and patios are easy options. But don’t forget about the wonders of the changing seasons. From camping and apple picking to dog-friendly breweries and more, there’s plenty to explore when the weather turns.
👉 If you’re opting for something a bit more adventurous, look into a pet insurance plan before you venture out.
Depending on where you live, you might be able to squeeze in some long days outside with your dog by your side. Here are a few outdoor activities to enjoy with your dog when the weather cools off.
Cuddling with your canine companion near a campfire sounds like an idyllic summer activity, but there’s no reason you can’t do it in the fall too! Fall weather means that you won’t have to trek through sweat-inducing heat while looking at trees covered in shades of red, orange, and yellow. As long as your dog is in good health and loves the outdoors, a camping trip is a safe way to spend time together outdoors.
Just make sure to keep your dog from eating outdoor plants like mushrooms, sticks, and fallen leaves, as ingestion of foreign materials like these can lead to stomach aches. Wildlife may tempt dogs with a high prey drive to run after them, so be aware of your surroundings at all times. Never leave your dog unattended in any campground. Beyond being against the rules in most places, it’s not safe for your dog, other dogs and hikers, and wildlife.
👉 Dogs need to be microchipped before camping. If the worst happens, a microchip can help a lost dog find their way home.
Many apple orchards and pumpkin patches will welcome your leashed dog (as long as you pick up after them while you pick edible goodies). Pumpkin patches will also have fun activities like corn mazes, but you should avoid taking a hayride with your pup. Dogs can get spooked and injured on hayrides. Since one major perk of pumpkin picking is photos for the ‘Gram, make sure you’ve got your camera on hand.
Apples are safe for pups of all ages to munch on, as long as they avoid the skin, seeds, and core. Just feed dogs apple slices in moderation as a snack. Likewise, dogs can also enjoy fresh pumpkin as a source of fiber, but you’ll want to wait until you get home. You’ll need to make sure to bake it, remove the seeds, and serve only in small amounts. Bonus: the pumpkin and apples you pick can be used to make delicious dog treats, and pumpkin is great for helping with diarrhea.
Other outdoor activities, like trips to the local petting zoo or certain farm activities, aren’t Fido-friendly. Petting zoos will often not allow dogs in for the safety of other animals.
👉 Check the policy of any outdoor activity before bringing your pup along for the ride!
Dogs and breweries (as well as cideries and wineries) are a match made in heaven. Many breweries are very dog-friendly and often have outdoor patios where you can drink a craft beer with your special pup. Check your local outdoor breweries to see what their dog policies are before meeting up with friends for a doggie playdate. Some breweries will even host “bark and booze” or “hops and hounds” events where dogs are welcomed to events filled with craft beer tastings, food, and plenty of wagging tails.
Make your dog rest next to you — If your dog is visiting places with people, they need to have some basic obedience training. Tell your dog to lay down and reward them for good behavior. Bring a long-lasting chew too.
Bring a plethora of treats — Entice your dog to behave well with treats. Feed them a treat when they do something right, like sitting next to you or focusing on you instead of other dogs.
Pay attention to your dog’s body language — Breweries filled with people and pups can be overwhelming for dogs, even when they are well-trained or normally well-behaved. Keep an eye on your dog’s body language for any signs of stress, like barking, tail tucking, cowering, growling, or shaking. .
After all that pumpkin pie and apple cider, you might be looking for a new exercise routine. Why not make your dog your gym buddy? Studies have shown that dogs help lower your blood pressure, reduce your levels of stress and anxiety, encourage you to exercise, and even help you live longer.
In addition to walking and jogging with your four-legged workout partner, you can incorporate some simple workouts into your daily routine. Try playing fetch with a twist: throw the ball as far as you can and try your favorite AMRAP while you await your dog’s return..
Check your local gyms to see how dog-friendly they are. Some studios will let you bring your dog with you to certain classes. Some gyms even offer “doga,” a partnered yoga class for you and your dog. If your local gym doesn’t offer doga, see if there’s a local yoga initiative in your area. Some workout groups will meet outside in local parks and welcome pet companions. If you can’t find a local doga (dog + yoga) class near you, try practicing yoga at home with your dog.
When snow hits the ground, it’s much harder to find outdoor activities that suit your dog’s needs (and your need to stay warm inside). But there’s no need to let the snow dampen your fun. Wintery weather means that it’s time to create enrichment toys and play dog-friendly games inside to keep dogs mentally and physically stimulated.
You don’t need to buy new dog toys to keep your furry friend occupied. Use household objects to create some DIY puzzles and games to mentally and physically stimulate your dog. Remember, if you don’t provide enrichment activities for your precious pup, they’ll seek out ways to stimulate themselves on their own and you may not like the results.
As with any toy (bought or handmade), (Trusted Source) supervise your dog so they don’t ingest anything they shouldn’t. Regularly switch up the toys and games that you use so your dog doesn’t become bored.
One key to keeping your dog happy and healthy while cooped up inside (without driving you crazy) is by playing games together. Playing together helps you bond better with your canine companion. Plus, a dog that’s using their mind and body is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors due to boredom. These dog-friendly games are just a few ideas to start with. Pay attention to what your dog loves playing and go from there!
Indoor dog parks are an amazing way to get your canine out of the house. These parks give your dog all the opportunities to play with other four-legged friends without the mud of an outdoor dog park. That said, make sure your pup stays safe by preparing beforehand.
Have a strong foundation of obedience training — Your dog is going to be bouncing off the walls with excitement, and you’re going to need to be able to get their attention when needed. Practice basic commands like “sit” and “down” along with commands like “come,” to get your dog to come to you.
👉 Work with a dog trainer or in a group class to master these basic commands before going to a dog park for the first time.
Pay attention — It’s going to be tempting to surf through your smartphone, but just because your dog isn’t next to you doesn’t mean they don’t need you. You need to watch your dog for signs of reactivity, anxiety, and exhaustion, and make sure that there’s no bad dog behavior going on. Additionally, plan on staying for no more than an hour — any more than that, and your dog might get bored or tired and start acting out.
Pack a doggie bag — You wouldn’t leave the house with an infant without a diaper bag. Likewise, bring a bag full of dog necessities: an extra leash, first-aid kit, water bottle, bowl, poop bags, paper towels, and treats. The treats will come in handy when it’s time to leave!
👉 An indoor dog park will likely have the same rules as your local kennel or doggie daycare. Be sure your pup is up-to-date on all the necessary shots.
If you want to build a snowman, or have kids planning a snowball fight, take your dog outside to enjoy the fun! Dogs often love playing in the snow as much as people do, but just like children, they need to be bundled up in boots and coats. Alternatively, meet up with friends or family members with dogs at a local dog park or someone’s backyard for a snowy playdate. They’ll burn a lot of energy playing together before retreating inside to rest.
Athletic large breeds can participate in skijoring, a fun winter activity where dogs pull people around on skis. Hook a harness on your dog, put on your skis, and glide along the snow as your dog runs. Obviously, only participate in this activity if your dog is obedient and healthy enough. Introduce your dog to the activity slowly, and if they don’t enjoy skijoring, stop immediately.
👉 If it’s too cold outside for you, it’s too cold for your dog.
Every dog needs a few winter weather staples before venturing outside. Make sure you have the following items before the weather turns cool.
Yes, many dogs enjoy winter walks, but consider your dog’s tolerance for cold. Shorter-haired or smaller breeds might need a jacket, and always check for snow or ice between their paws. Remember: if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.
Try hide-and-seek, puzzle toys, or indoor fetch. Mental stimulation can help keep your dog active and happy inside.
Winter hikes can be safe with proper precautions. Bring water, keep your dog on a leash, and watch for icy patches or sharp objects hidden in snow.
Activities like skijoring, snowshoeing, and even sled-pulling (for larger dogs) can be exciting. Ensure your dog is fit and enjoys the cold before trying these.
Yes, applying dog-safe balm can help prevent cracked paws caused by cold weather, ice, and salted sidewalks.
