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I used to go into hibernation mode with my dogs when the weather turned cold, but now I look forward to several dog-friendly activities unique to the fall season.
At some point in the fall, I can only say that things changed.
The mornings are cool again, I can pull out my collection of sweaters and the dogs are starting to wear their coats.
It also means I can hike some of our favorite trails and get a different perspective—one with golden fall colors—I can start drinking hot Starbucks mocha on the way to the trailhead.
To help you and your dog stay active in the fall, I thought I’d share what I’m looking forward to to inspire you.
UPDATE: Originally published September 1, 2016
Note: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases.
19 Dog-Friendly Fall Activities
While it may seem like the options for entertaining and exercising your dog are more limited in the fall, there’s still plenty to do if you get creative and change your perspective.
1) Walk the trails in search of fall colors
Deciduous trees turn all shades of yellow and red in the fall. My favorites in the fall are the hikes in the golden larches.
You don’t have to hike in the mountains to catch the fall colors. Many city parks and nature trails also have trees that love to show off in the fall.
2) Take a waterfall hike
Many of the easier waterfall hikes are very popular in the summer, but the crowds dwindle as the weather cools.
Too bad for them because I think fall is the best time to view the waterfall with your dog.
Fall being rainy, many waterfalls are the most spectacular of this season.
Just be sure to watch your dog around any cold or fast-moving water.
3) Visit a dog-friendly pumpkin patch
Many pumpkin patches allow dogs, so you can bring your four-legged friend along to pick out the perfect pumpkin.
Just be sure to follow these dog-friendly etiquette tips.
4) Walk through a corn maze
Many pumpkin patches also have a corn maze, and some are dog-friendly (be sure to call ahead to check first).
Bring your furry friend along to explore the twists.
It might even be fun to let your dog use his nose to lead the way and see if he can find the way on his own.
Just be sure to keep your dog on a leash and follow the rules of the maze.
5) Take a scenic drive to enjoy the fall foliage
If the weather is too cold or rainy, one of my favorite things to do is take a mini-road trip along one of these dog-friendly road trip routes in Washington State.
Be sure to take breaks to allow your dog to stretch his paws and don’t forget these dog travel essentials.
6) Build a campfire and roast marshmallows
In many places in the United States, burning bans were lifted in the fall, so campfires are allowed again.
Visit a campground near you if one is open, or use something like a Solo Campfire Stove in your backyard, to build a cozy fire where you and your dog can curl up.
If there are still burning restrictions in your area, or if you don’t like the smell of smoke from a campfire like I do, consider a portable propane fire pit instead.
Just be sure to watch your dog closely and follow fire safety guidelines.
7) Play in the crunchy leaves
When the leaves start to fall, why not have some fun with your dog by playing fetch in a leafy park or yard or letting your dog chase the leaves on a windy day?
Many dogs enjoy the crunch of leaves, whether under their paws or when pouncing on them.
8) Take a trip to the beach
Some beaches that are dog-free in the summer due to public swimming, lift no-dog restrictions in the fall.
Some beaches that are strictly leash in the summer become leash-free in the fall (such as Richmond Beach in Shoreline, WA).
Also, very few people visit the ocean beaches, where there are miles of sand to cover, in the fall and winter, so that’s my favorite time.
Most of the time my dogs and I have pretty much the whole coast to ourselves.
Just be sure to follow these dog beach safety rules and pick up after your dog.
9) Go to a dog park and let your dog run with other dogs
I largely avoid dog parks in the summer when the weather is nice as they can get very crowded.
Too many dogs in an enclosed space can be dangerous for small dogs.
I find dog parks much nicer in the fall when most people are hiding inside.
If you go, be sure to follow dog park rules and keep an eye on your dog at all times.
10) Visit a farmers market and try new fall produce
Many farmers’ markets are dog-friendly, so you can bring your dog along while you pick out fresh fruits and vegetables that are at their best in the fall.
11) Visit a dog-friendly Halloween event or parade
Many cities and towns hold Halloween-themed races or parades, and some events allow dogs.
12) Host a dog-friendly Halloween costume party
Whether you’re gathering a few friends at your house or attending a dog Halloween party, it can be fun to watch cute dogs running around dressed as teddy bears, cowboys, and more.
Many public pet costume contests also give out prizes for the most original costume, the best pair of owner dog costumes, etc.
13) Do sleight of hand with your dog
If your dog is friendly with kids and doesn’t mind being around people in disguise, bring him with you when you take the family out for tricks or treats.
Many people also enjoy seeing dogs on their doorsteps and some even hand out special dog treats.
14) Host a dog-friendly photoshoot
The fall season is the perfect time for beautiful outdoor photos.
You can schedule a photo session with a professional wildlife photographer or use these tips to capture great photos of your dog on your smartphone.
15) Play bob for the apples
Since apples float, trying to catch them out of the water can be fun for your dog.
Fill a shallow bowl or bucket with water and place apple slices or chunks on top (make sure there are no apple seeds) for your dog.
In addition to providing a tasty and healthy snack, apple jumping also provides mental stimulation for your dog as he tries to figure out how to grab the pieces.
16) Take a dog-friendly cooking class
Sign up for a dog-friendly virtual cooking class, like the Puppy Pops and Canine Cookies Classand learn how to whip up tasty homemade treats for your furry friend.
For more fun, invite a few friends to do it with you.
If you live near a major city and are lucky, you might even find a dog-friendly cooking class.
17) Host a dog-friendly movie night
If you want to stay warm and cozy indoors, you can still create a fun atmosphere for you and your dog.
Prepare yourself some popcorn and a drink (alcoholic or not) and give your dog a Bowsers beer and dog-friendly popcorn Yaky Charms Dog Treat Popcorn Dog Treat.
18) Go to a dog-friendly brasserie or winery
While visiting one can be fun in any season, I prefer to enjoy the sun and fresh air when I can.
But when the weather turns gloomy and I still want to go outside to socialize with my dog, I often choose to visit a dog-friendly brewery.
While most dog-friendly restaurants only allow dogs outside on the terrace, which can be uncomfortable in the fall, if sitting on the terrace is even an option, breweries accepting dogs Dogs can usually leave dogs inside as they do not serve food.
19) Host a dog-friendly game night
Invite friends over and host a dog-friendly game night with fall-themed games and treats.
Your dog can have fun playing with his canine buddies while you catch up on what your friends have been up to.
Take it to the next level by giving your dog food puzzles to solve while you and your friends play your own games.
Final Thoughts
Just because the weather turns cold doesn’t mean fall means the end of having fun and being active with your dog.
There are several activities that can only be done in the fall, such as viewing the fall colors and visiting a pumpkin patch.
There are also creative ways to have fun from the comfort of your own home.
Whatever you choose, keeping your dog active and mentally stimulated all year round will help keep him healthy and happy.
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