The weather is finally cooling down, the scenery is beautiful, and there are many pet-friendly activities that occur during the fall months.

So if you’ve been wanting to get your pet out for fun, now is definitely the time.

And trust me, no matter what you choose, your pup will be happy to spend some extra time outdoors with the one he or she loves…YOU.

Keep reading to discover my favorite pet-friendly activities for the fall.

Hiking

Hiking is an activity I recommend to all dog owners. It’s a great way to spend quality time with your pet while getting some much-needed fresh air and exercise.

And the fall is the perfect time to do it.

For one thing, the temperatures are much cooler than they are in the summer months.

And this means you can hike longer distances without having to worry about your pet getting dehydrated or suffering from heatstroke.

And in many places, especially if you live in the northern parts of the country, the leaves are changing colors. That makes for a beautiful hike in the woods.

I hope you and your pooch get to enjoy a nice hike this fall. If you go, please remember the following things…

• Always pack water for your pup, and take plenty of water breaks. Keep your pooch hydrated!

• If you’re hiking rugged and rocky terrain, use doggy boots to protect your pup’s feet.

• If your dog is showing signs of overheating (panting, crooked walking, or fatigue), be sure to take rest breaks along the trails.

• Make sure your pooch is up-to-date with flea and tick meds before you go so that he doesn’t bring home bugs.

• Always keep your pet on a leash for both your pet’s safety and the safety of others on the trail.

Pumpkin Picking

Pumpkin picking is a fall tradition for many people. And you can bet your pooch isn’t going to want to miss out on this pet-friendly activity.

Pick-your-own pumpkin places are often found on farms that tend to be animal friendly.

As long as you keep your pup on a leash and are responsible for cleaning up after your pet, most places don’t have a problem with bringing your dog along for the adventure.

Just to be safe and show courtesy, call up the facility you’re planning on going to and get permission to bring your pet with you.

And don’t forget to let your pup pick out his own pumpkin when you go!

Leaf Raking

If you live in a home surrounded by trees, raking leaves is a fall activity you can’t avoid.

You might see it as a chore, but your pooch might view it differently. I mean, what’s more fun than a giant pile of crunchy leaves to pounce on?

Rake up a giant pile of leaves, and let your pup play in them for a while.

Throw your canine companion’s favorite toy into the pile, and let him dig for it.

Watch as he gleefully rolls around in the crunchy leaves. Or go ahead and jump in the leaves with your pet, and enjoy them together.

Chasing leaves on a windy day is also a fun activity. And they are so much easier to catch than those silly squirrels.

Whatever you decide to do, a day in the leaves with your furry pal is always fun.

Puppy Football

There’s nothing your dog loves more than you and his favorite ball. So why not combine the two and play some fall football with your pup.

Play solo, or get a group of your friends together for a com-PET-itive game of puppy football. Better yet, if your pooch is dog friendly, have your friends bring their dogs over to play along, too.

This is a great cardio workout for your dog and is the perfect opportunity to let him blow off some pent-up energy.

Don’t forget. Even the best athletes need water breaks, so be sure to keep a bowl of fresh water available outside for your pet at all times. And be sure to take breaks, especially if your dog is older or has arthritis or hip problems.

You want your pet to have fun, but you don’t want him to overexert himself and feel sore the next morning.

Pumpkin-Flavored Treat

Every day is a good day for a pumpkin dog treat, especially during the fall.

And there’s no reason your pup can’t have a pumpkin-flavored treat as well. So don’t leave her out the next time you’re craving that pumpkin scone or pumpkin latte.

Make sure your dog gets a pumpkin-flavored treat, too.

Not only are pumpkin treats tasty, but pumpkin is very good for your pet. It contains a lot of important nutrients and is also packed with fiber that aids in keeping your pup’s gut healthy.

Here’s a dog treat recipe for easy, delicious, and nutritious pumpkin popsicles.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 cup plain pumpkin puree

Directions:

1. Mix the two ingredients together.
2. Fill popsicle molds with the mixture.
3. Freeze at least 4 hours.
4. Serve to your pet!

There are so many fun, pet-friendly activities for you and your pet to enjoy this season.

But for your pet to get the maximum amount of enjoyment out of these activities, he needs to be healthy and energized.
I recommend feeding your pet The Original CrockPET Diet®. This diet is packed with fresh meats and veggies that give your pooch the nutrition he needs to stay active, healthy, and vibrant.

Discover how to keep your pet healthy with The Original CrockPET Diet®.