6 fun activities to try with your dog this autumn

When the weather is unpredictable, you might want to avoid going for long walks. Instead, a dog park is a great place for your dog to get plenty of mental and physical exercise, without the risk of getting caught in a storm.

Try one of Petplan’s Dog Adventure Parks, designed by a dog behaviourist to keep your pet happy and healthy. If your dog hasn’t tried agility, this is an ideal time to introduce them to the equipment. If they already love agility, create a course and see if you can beat your own personal best time.

Most dogs love visiting new places, as there’s always plenty for them to see and smell. Around Halloween, keep an eye out for any seasonal pumpkin patches opening in your area. These can be great fun for your dog to explore, but call ahead beforehand to make sure they’re dog-friendly.

Once there, keep your dog on the lead at all times. After you’ve chosen and carved your pumpkin, use the inside to make some tasty no-bake pumpkin treats for your dog.

Make the most of the crisp autumn days and head out for a walk. Whether you go for a short stroll or a longer hike, try exploring some new dog walks in your area.

Regular walks help provide the physical exercise your dog needs, but they’re also essential for mental stimulation. If the weather is very cold or rainy, consider investing in a dog coat in a bright colour that will stand out on gloomy days. These can help breeds with thin coats, such as Greyhounds and Boxers, to feel more cosy.

When it’s cold and rainy you might not want to go outside for a long walk. But the good news is there are plenty of ways to keep your dog mentally stimulated at home, too. Setting up an indoor treasure hunt is a great way to have plenty of fun together – no raincoats required!

You could also try giving your dog puzzle toys to extend their feed times; using a lick mat or stuffing a Kong toy with Xylitol-free peanut butter.

If you’re rustling up some tasty autumnal treats, make sure your dog doesn’t miss out by making them something delicious, too. Try some Halloween-themed treats – such as beastly bone biscuits or eerie egg muffins – and your dog will likely want seconds!

To make sure your dog doesn’t put on too much weight, don’t feed them too many treats per day, and remember to account for the extra calories by reducing their usual food portion, if necessary.

On dark evenings, why not stay indoors and work on your dog’s training? Perhaps you want to teach them to walk nicely on the lead, give a high-five or even play hide-and-seek.

Spending time training and bonding with your dog throughout autumn can also help keep their minds occupied. Our pets can feel more stressed during Halloween and Bonfire Night, with busier streets and loud noises.