Fall is here, and you know what that means: sweaters for us, fresh smells for the dogs, and a whole lot of “Wait… where did the sunlight go?” My dog, Henry, thrives in the crisp weather, but even he misses summer’s chaos and grilled-meat perfume wafting through the neighborhood.
But don’t worry, autumn is secretly one of the BEST seasons for dog-friendly fun. You don’t need a big budget to make your pup’s day. Let’s dig into 12 fall activities that’ll make your dog go absolutely nuts, in a good way.
Budget tip:
None of these fall activities with your dog cost much if any money. But you and your buddy will love them. It’s a great way to bond with your pup and celebrate the season. That’s an autumn special win-win for you and your furry friend.
What we love for fun fall activities with your dog:
Poop bags - I always have them in my pocket and car, just in case
Water/food bottle - I never go anywhere with Henry without water
Duck training treats - Henry will do nearly anything for a small duck cookie
A fun tie - Henry doesn't mind a tie. I suppose he loves being boss.
Holiday themed pumpkin cookies - Henry will never pass up pumpkin anything
Dog sports jersey - Henry is always ready to support whichever team I love
1. Go on a Ghost Walk Tour
Many towns and cities, like mine, host ghost walks. Mine goes back in time through the historic district of town. It’s a fun way to spend an afternoon. Dogs are always welcome. But your buddy may not be allowed inside the buildings included on the tour. Henry loves the charming and spirited walking tours. It’s also very affordable, and your dog is usually free.
2. Sniffari Walks in the Fall Leaves
Is there a spot in your area where the aspens or oak trees congregate and turn a brilliant color? There are a few spots near me. The leaves drop and scatter on the ground like an autumn blanket. Most of these areas are in different locations from Henry’s normal walks. He loves smelling and chasing fallen leaves. For him, it’s a must autumn “sniffari.”
Note: Never let your dog play with or eat any fallen nuts like acorns, walnuts, or other nuts. Most are toxic for your buddy and can be a choking hazard for your pup.
3. Go for a Crisp Hike on a Cool Day
One of Henry’s all-time favorite activities is hiking. He loves the smells and adventure. In the fall, we pack a few treats (for him and me) and check out the higher mountain trails that will soon disappear from sight, and sleep for months with a cold, snowy cover.
I let Henry explore and smell while still on his leash. It’s great with the cooler weather and fewer bugs. Although I still check him for ticks and sap when we get home. Also, remember to pack plenty of water, poop bags, and watch out for slippery leaves. Don’t forget to mark the adventure with a few fun photos.
4. Pumpkin Patch Adventure
Does your dog love pumpkin as much as Henry? I’m not sure Henry realizes that his favorite orange treat comes in such a big package. Visiting a pumpkin patch can be fun for your dog and you. Although watch your dog and make sure your buddy doesn’t pee on any gourds or a pumpkin village. Of course, you’ll want to mark the day with a cute photo of your buddy nestled amongst the fall harvest.
5. Apple Orchard Visit
Henry also loves apples. While we have a few fruit trees, it’s nothing like visiting an orchard. Every October, we pile into the car for a road trip to Apple Hill, California. The apples are the main attractions, but there are also apple treats that can make you drool for days!
More importantly, Henry is welcome and he loves it. There are great sniffs and people for him to see. He even gets a slice of apple. There’s really nothing like a fresh-picked apple! I think Henry agrees. The cost is free, except for any apple treats and the gas.
6. Leaf Diving for Treats
Do you hate raking fall leaves? I bet your buddy loves to help with all the chores as much as Henry. It’s almost like our chores are the fur kids’ entertainment. For this fun activity, mound up your leaves, and sneak a treat or toy at the bottom.
Shower your pup with crispy leaves and let your pup try to catch or chase them. Henry thinks he’s king of all leaves. I bet you’ll never dread raking leaves again. I know Henry loves it.
7. Doggy Costume Contest
Do you dress your pup up for Halloween? Of course, you need to make sure your pup is comfortable in the outfit and able to see with no small pieces to chew or choke on accidentally. I like to put a tie on Henry. I tell people he’s the boss.
My town hosts pet Halloween costume contest events every year. It’s super cute! Even if you just take your pup to watch, it’s worth it. Check with your local chamber or pet store to find out if your area is hosting a pet costume contest.
If not, you could invite your pup’s friends over to your backyard or to the dog park and host your own contest. Don’t forget to mark the day with lots of photos and yummy treats.
8. Fall-Themed Movie Night Cuddle
Of course, if you live where it gets cold quickly, rest assured that not all fall activities need to be outside. Mark the chilly season with a night cuddled up on the couch with a cozy blanket and your furry friend.
Pick a movie that your pup may enjoy as well, like the Apple Dumpling Gang or Hocus Pocus. Of course, a movie is never complete without popcorn. You can even share a few of the plain popped pieces with your dog. Henry loves popcorn! I bet your pup does as well.
9. Teach a Fun New Season-Inspired Trick
Does your dog love to train as much as Henry? Apparently, it’s brain candy for Henry. He loves learning new tricks and behaviors. He also likes it when I reinforce a trick he hasn’t done in a while, like crawling as if he’s a spider or he’s trying to avoid a ghost.
It’s super cute and, of course, he always gets a yummy cookie for accomplishing the feat. Perhaps it’s the cookies that he really likes rather than the training. Hmm…
10. Doggy Tailgate
Fall means fall sports like football. If your dog isn’t allowed into the stadium, he most likely is welcome in the tailgate section. Those smells and people are tail-wagging fun for any pup. Since most tailgate foods are toxic for your buddy, remember to pack a few yummy treats and plenty of water for your buddy.
Also, you and your pup may love sporting similar jerseys in support of your favorite team. You will certainly get lots of fun looks and comments as you twin with your fur kid. Don’t forget to mark the day with a fun photo.
11. Watch The Fall Night Sky and Critters
Do you love stargazing? I do. While Henry may not watch the stars, he loves the night, sniffs, and watches for critters running across the property. I watch to make sure there are no predators coming our way.
We have a lot of predators (mountain lions, lynx, bears, raccoons, hawks, barn owls), and if I stay close to the house, most don’t think about approaching. I love it when the misquotes aren’t out and the other bugs have called it a year. I sip on a warm cup of something, and Henry enjoys a pumpkin cookie or two. It really is a fun fall activity for your dog.
12. Corn-Mazing
Does your area have corn mazes? The can be fun to explore as you walk through the towering corn stalks and try to find your way out. My area has a few mazes in the farm districts. You may need to call ahead to make sure your pup will be allowed. Most of the time, if you keep your buddy on a leash or put your pup in a backpack, they are welcome.
Also, the farms have lots of great sniffs that your buddy doesn’t normally get to smell. Even better, when fall arrives, the corn mazes in my area will invite various food trucks to the events. Those are really great smells!
It’s sure to make your pup’s tail wag with excitement. You and your dog will love this adventure. Don’t forget to pack a few treats, water, and poop bags. Remember to snap a cute photo with your pup and the maze, or even a scarecrow.
Bonus: Fall Furry Distressing
As the holidays approach, it seems as if our stress levels escalate. Your pup may have the answer to your increased stress. Enjoy bonding with your pup while you brush, massage, or meditate with your buddy at your side. Your furry friend will love it, and you will feel better.
It’s actually scientifically proven that oxytocin (the happy hormone) increases in both you and your pup when you touch each other. Kind of cool, right? Make sure to enjoy a fall treat when you’re done, like a homegrown carrot or a slice of apple.
What Fall Activities Should I Avoid With My Dog?
Of course, you’ll want to steer clear of any place where your dog isn’t welcome. A simple call can clear up any confusion about various events.
In general, most dogs won’t enjoy the following:
- Loud music fall festival
- State fair events (too much noise, music, and stimulation)
- Haunted house (heck, they scare me)
- Face painting (your dog is cute enough and doesn’t need it. Besides, you don’t want your dog licking it and getting sick)
- Spirited performance with people in scary costumes (there’s no need to scare your pup)
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These Fall Activities Make All Tails Wag – And Yours Too!
Grab a warm sweater, a pumpkin spice something, and enjoy the crisp fall season with your dog. Don’t forget to mark each fun fall activity with a photo to capture the day. Your pup will look forward to the next exciting adventure, and you will as well. Remember, there are only 12 weeks in fall (that means September, October, November, and part of December). I know Henry loves it when I make the fall season fun for him. It’s good for him and me.
