As the leaves turn amber and the air gets that wonderful, crisp chill, we officially enter “Cosy Season.” For us, that means jumpers, hot chocolates, and perhaps a questionable pumpkin spice latte (or two).
But what does your dog need to thrive during the magical transition from summer to winter? It’s more than just a thicker blanket! Autumn brings specific needs, from visibility on dark walks to treats that celebrate the season.
Here are five essential must-haves for your dog to ensure a safe, fun, and fabulous autumn!
The High-Vis Hero Gear
The days are getting shorter, and that means your normal 6 PM walk is now practically in the dark. Visibility is no longer a choice—it’s essential, especially if you live near busy roads or cycle paths.
The Must-Have: Invest in a rechargeable LED collar light or a reflective vest/harness. These simple items make your dog a “High-Vis Hero,” ensuring they are seen by cyclists, drivers, and other pedestrians, turning those darker walkies into a safer experience for everyone.
Find out more here
The Great Indoor Brain Game
When the weather turns absolutely foul (as it often does in autumn!), a simple ten-minute walk isn’t going to cut it for energy expenditure. Boredom leads to mischief, and you don’t want your new sofa to become the next victim.
The Must-Have: A puzzle toy or a snuffle mat. These are fantastic for providing mental stimulation, which can tire a dog out faster than physical exercise alone. Hiding treats in the folds of a snuffle mat encourages their natural foraging instincts, keeping their brain busy while they stay dry indoors.
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Pumpkin-Powered Treats (The Safe Kind!)
While you might be sipping on that sweet, sugary coffee, your dog can also enjoy the seasonal spirit—safely. Pumpkin is a fantastic, fibrous addition to a dog’s diet that can help with digestion.
The Must-Have: A jar of plain, canned pumpkin puree (make sure it is not pumpkin pie filling, which is full of sugar and spices). You can use a dollop of this healthy mush to stuff a Kong, mix it with their usual food, or bake simple, two-ingredient pumpkin dog biscuits. It’s the perfect, safe way for them to join the pumpkin spice trend!
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The Paw Protection Balm
The shift in temperatures can be tough on paw pads. Cold, damp ground on a walk and dry, centrally heated air back at home can cause their skin to dry out, crack, or become irritated.
The Must-Have: A good quality natural paw balm or wax. Applying a light layer before a walk can act as a barrier against dampness and debris, and a soothing application before bed can help heal and moisturise any rough patches. Happy paws make for happy dogs!
Find out more here
The Mighty Mud Mitt
Autumn walks mean one thing: mud. Muddy paws are inevitable, but bringing that muck directly into the hallway is not! Towels often just smear the dirt around and take forever to clean.
The Must-Have: A portable paw cleaner or a microfibre cleaning mitt. These are designed to gently but effectively remove dirt from those hard-to-reach crevices between their toes. Keep one by the back door so you can instantly de-mud your dog before they get a chance to shake it all over your freshly cleaned floor.
Find out more here
