With Autumn leaves painting the landscape in vibrant hues, it’s always a fantastic time of year for dog owners and their furry companions to enjoy walks through local parks and woodland. The season brings a unique charm to a daily walk, with cooler temperatures, thicker clothing, and the delightful crunch of leaves, however, this time of year also introduces new challenges for our dogs. From darker mornings and evenings to seasonal hazards to look out for, adapting our walking routines to ensure our dogs remain safe and comfortable is important.
Below, we’ll explore some essential tips to make the most of Autumn dog walks while keeping your beloved pet protected. Ready to embrace the season’s beauty with your four-legged friend by your side? Let’s get started.
Gear Up for Autumn Weather
As the British weather turns more unpredictable at this time of year, you’ll need to be as ready as possible for Autumn walks. For those rainy days, consider a waterproof coat not just for yourself but also for your pup. While some breeds with thick coats might not need extra layers, short-haired breeds may struggle to maintain their body heat in lower temperatures so will appreciate the warmth and dryness. Look for adjustable, breathable coats that allow freedom of movement, not just those that look fashionable on your four-legged friend!
Don’t forget about paw protection too. Autumn brings muddy trails and eventually frosty ground in the mornings, which can be harsh on sensitive paw pads. According to dog trainer and behaviourist Philippa Short writing for Petusre, most dogs can walk safely in cold weather, but you’ll want to watch out for your dog slipping in muddy or icy conditions that may cause injury. You may want to invest in some dog boots for longer walks or use a paw balm to create a protective barrier against the elements. This also makes post-walk clean-up easier, saving your home from muddy paw prints. Remember, comfort is key for anything you get for your dog to wear.
Be Visible in Low Light
One of the most noticeable changes at this time of year is the reduced amount of daylight hours, making visibility a top priority for dog walkers. Investing in an LED collar or attachments that can be easily clipped onto your dog’s regular collar is a good idea, as are reflective collars that ensure your pup stands out in low light conditions. You may want to keep your dog on a lead if visibility is very low, such as a foggy morning.
Don’t forget about your own visibility too – wear reflective clothing or accessories to ensure both you and your dog are seen by motorists and cyclists, especially when walking on public footpaths next to the road. Armbands or high-visibility vests are practical choices here.
You’ll also want to plan your route if you don’t already do so, choosing well-lit paths or parks with street lighting where possible. Being visible will ensure you can stay safe when outside during this darker time of year.
Watch Out for Seasonal Hazards
Fallen leaves can blanket paths and fields, and while these create a picturesque autumnal scene, they can also hide potential dangers such as sharp objects, litter, or even deep puddles. Encourage your dog to stick to clear paths where possible, and be vigilant when they’re exploring leaf-covered areas.
This season also sees an increase in mushrooms and fungi growth. While many are harmless, some can be very toxic to dogs if ingested as per the PDSA. It’s best to prevent your pet from sniffing or eating any mushrooms during your walks. Similarly, be cautious of acorns and conkers, abundant at this time of year, which pose a risk. These can cause choking or intestinal blockages if swallowed. It’s best to keep a close eye on your dog in and around woodland and consider using a basket muzzle if your pet is prone to scavenging.
Protect Against Parasites
Ticks and fleas remain active during the colder seasons, often hiding in piles of fallen leaves or long grass. As per the RSPCA, they tend to be common in woodland and grassland and you’ll most likely see them between Spring and Autumn. After each walk, perform a thorough check of your dog’s coat, paying special attention to ears, paws, and skin folds where parasites love to hide. This is important as ticks carry Lyme disease which can cause symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, and general lethargy.
Maintaining your regular flea treatment schedule is important, so speak to your vet. If you frequently walk in wooded or grassy areas, you may want to consider carrying a tick removal tool, which will help you remove the tick correctly. You may be able to get these from your vet or a good pet store.
Mind the Mud
It typically starts to get muddier when out and about with your dog during the Autumn, and as much as your pup may like jumping around and rolling in mud, it may not be as thrilling for you as their owner. However, even if you generally sway them away from the stuff, your dog’s legs and paws are bound to still get a bit muddy.
To keep your home clean, and your dog, keep a towel or pet wipes by the door to clean muddy paws before entering. Use a quick-drying microfibre towel for efficient drying, especially if they get wet in the rain or from jumping in water as this will also help them warm up quicker once home. For dogs with longer coats, regular brushing helps prevent mud from matting in their fur. A waterproof coat can also minimise this happening, but if it can’t be avoided, a nice warm bath can be the best option.
Adjust Exercise Routines
There’s nothing like the reduced daylight hours to impact your regular walking routine. It can be best to adjust walk times to make the most of available light as much as possible, but if you can’t due to work commitments, try to maintain the same number of walks. Your dog needs regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy, so even if it is less enticing outside, they’ll still appreciate it.
However, on particularly wet or blustery days, consider indoor alternatives instead. Interactive toys, homemade obstacle or agility courses, or hide-and-seek games can all provide mental stimulation and physical exercise instead. Plus, this can help further strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
Ready for Autumn Walks?
Colder days, less daylight and muddier conditions can make all the difference during Autumn when walking your dog. Hopefully, the above can help you and your dog stay warm, safe, and happy even in less-than-ideal weather. Preparing well for the changes at this time of year will see you ready for Autumn and eventually, Winter walks, so you can then enjoy a cosy time indoors snuggled with your furry companion.
