As summer comes to an end and the days begin to get shorter, our dogs have to adjust to a whole new season. Cooler temperatures, muddy walks, darker evenings and changing routines can all make autumn a little different for our four-legged friends.
The good news? With a few simple changes, you can help your dog stay happy, healthy and comfortable throughout the season.
From caring for muddy paws to keeping your dog visible on evening walks, here are our top autumn dog care tips.
1. Get Ready for Muddy Walks
Autumn walks can be beautiful, but they can also mean muddy paths, wet grass and very enthusiastic dogs returning home looking considerably less clean than when they left!
Keeping a few essentials by the door can make those post-walk clean-ups much easier. A good absorbent towel, dog-friendly wipes and suitable grooming products can all help remove mud before it gets trodden through the house.
Pay particular attention to your dog's paws. Mud and grit can collect between the pads and toes, so gently check and clean their feet after particularly muddy walks.
If your dog has a longer coat, regular brushing can also help prevent mud and debris from becoming tangled.
2. Look After Your Dog's Paws
Your dog's paws work hard all year round, but autumn can bring some additional challenges.
Wet ground, mud, grit and rough surfaces can all cause irritation, particularly for dogs who spend lots of time outdoors. Make checking your dog's paws part of your post-walk routine.
Look between their toes and around their pads for anything that shouldn't be there, and gently clean their feet when necessary.
If you notice persistent redness, swelling, cracking, bleeding or signs that your dog is uncomfortable, speak to your vet for advice.
3. Don't Forget the Darker Evenings
One of the biggest changes that comes with autumn is the return of darker mornings and evenings.
If your usual walk takes place early in the morning or after work, visibility becomes even more important. Reflective or high-visibility accessories can help make you and your dog easier for other walkers, cyclists and road users to see.
A small dog light or flashing accessory can also help you keep track of your dog when you're walking in low-light conditions.
Before heading out, make sure your dog's collar or harness fits correctly and that their identification details are up to date.
4. Keep Your Dog Active as the Weather Changes
Cooler weather doesn't mean your dog's exercise routine needs to disappear.
In fact, many dogs love the cooler temperatures of autumn. Keep up regular walks where possible, adapting the length and intensity to suit your dog's age, breed, fitness and individual needs.
When the weather is particularly wet, windy or unpleasant, you can also keep your dog's mind active at home with enrichment activities.
Puzzle toys, snuffle mats, treat-based games and short training sessions are all great ways to provide mental stimulation when a long walk isn't on the cards.
Remember, keeping a dog entertained isn't only about physical exercise. Giving them opportunities to sniff, explore, solve problems and learn can be just as valuable.
5. Think About Your Dog's Diet
As the seasons change, it's worth keeping an eye on your dog's eating habits and overall condition.
Every dog has different nutritional requirements, depending on factors such as their age, size, breed, activity level and lifestyle. A very active dog who spends hours outside may have different needs from an older dog who prefers shorter strolls.
Autumn can also be a good time to review your dog's current food and make sure it is still suitable for them.
If you're considering changing your dog's diet, make any changes gradually and speak to your vet if you're unsure what is appropriate for your pet.
And don't forget treats! Treats are useful for training and enrichment, but they should form only a small part of your dog's overall diet.
6. Watch Out for Autumn Hazards
Autumn brings plenty of beautiful sights, smells and things for dogs to investigate, but not everything they find on a walk is safe to eat.
Conkers and acorns, for example, can cause problems if eaten, while mushrooms and fungi can also pose a risk. Fallen fruit can be another temptation for curious dogs.
It's best to discourage your dog from eating things they find while out walking and to keep a close eye on them in areas where potentially harmful items are present.
If you think your dog has eaten something potentially dangerous, contact your vet for advice as soon as possible.
7. Keep Your Dog Warm and Dry
While many dogs cope perfectly well with cooler autumn temperatures, some may feel the cold more than others.
Small dogs, older dogs, dogs with very short coats and those with certain health conditions may need a little extra consideration as temperatures drop.
After wet walks, dry your dog thoroughly and give them somewhere warm and comfortable to rest.
Dog coats can be useful for some dogs in cold or wet weather, but they aren't necessary for every dog. If you do use one, make sure it fits properly, allows your dog to move freely and doesn't cause them to overheat.
8. Keep Grooming in Your Autumn Routine
Regular grooming isn't just about keeping your dog looking their best.
Brushing helps remove loose hair, dirt and debris, while also giving you an opportunity to check your dog's skin for anything unusual.
Dogs with longer or thicker coats may need more frequent brushing during wet and muddy weather, as damp fur can become tangled more easily.
Autumn is also a good time to check ears, paws and claws as part of your regular grooming routine.
9. Give Them Plenty to Do Indoors
Let's face it, autumn in Wales can occasionally deliver a little more rain than our dogs would ideally order!
On days when the weather makes a long walk difficult, create opportunities for your dog to stay entertained indoors.
Try hiding a few treats around a room and encouraging your dog to sniff them out, practising basic commands, introducing a puzzle toy or giving them a safe chew.
You don't need hours of entertainment. Even a few short sessions throughout the day can help prevent boredom and give your dog something interesting to focus on.
10. Enjoy Autumn Together
Above all, autumn is a wonderful time to enjoy adventures with your dog.
The cooler temperatures can make longer walks more comfortable, while changing leaves and quieter paths create plenty of new smells and things to explore.
Whether you're heading out for a woodland walk, enjoying a quick stroll around the garden or settling down together after a rainy afternoon, keeping your dog involved in your autumn routine can help them stay active, stimulated and happy.
Your Autumn Dog-Care Checklist
Before heading into autumn, make sure you've got the essentials covered:
- 🐾 Check and clean paws after muddy walks
- 🧼 Keep towels and grooming supplies ready
- 🌙 Improve visibility on darker walks
- 🥣 Make sure your dog's food is still right for their needs
- 🍂 Be aware of seasonal hazards such as conkers, acorns and fungi
- 🧥 Keep your dog comfortable in colder or wetter weather
- 🧠 Provide plenty of enrichment on rainy days
- ❤️ Keep an eye on your dog's overall health and behaviour
Autumn Adventures Start Here
A change in season doesn't have to mean a change in the fun. With a little preparation, autumn can be a fantastic time to get outside, explore new places and enjoy plenty of quality time with your four-legged friend.
From tasty treats and nutritious food to toys, grooming essentials and walking accessories, our Pet & Aquatics department has plenty to help you and your dog make the most of the season.
And if you're a member of Paws For Rewards, don't forget to check your latest member benefits and offers before you shop!