Autumn Activities for You and your Dog
As the hot summer months give way to the more inviting fall temperatures, you might be considering getting out with your dog more often to enjoy the great outdoors.
Spending time with your dog is a great way to strengthen your bond and improve the quality of both your lives and possibly even increase both your life spans. There are many great, fun, safe ways for you and your pup to have a blast in the coming months. Here are a few of our favorite ideas!
Play Dates
Invite a friend and their dog over, or meet up somewhere so your dogs can play. Interaction with other animals is very important to a dog's psyche, and seeing a familiar pooch will make him happy and give him something outside his routine to enjoy. Dogs have a unique way of playing together, and it's very important that they get that time, so spend some time with a friend or family member while your dogs enjoy one another's company in the yard, park, or other dog-friendly area.
Visit the Park
Doggie parks (or regular parks) are wonderful this time of year. This is the perfect time for playing catch, tossing Frisbees, or (if you can find a contained dog park with good fencing) just letting your dog run wild for a bit.
You and your dog can race, wrestle, play hiding/chasing games, or engage in other fun games like football and basketball (they make foam or rubber sports balls that dogs can easily handle). Your dog will also love meeting new people and pets, and if your dog is friendly to children, then having kids to potentially play with will be fun and exciting for him.
Relaxing Outside
Even if you don't have a huge yard (or any yard at all!) try just sitting outside with your dog, rather than inside. Sit in your yard with your dog at your feet while you read a book, make your grocery list, plan the following day, or just enjoy a little peace and quiet. If you're reading, read to your dog! He'll enjoy the attention, and you might have fun with different voices and scenarios. You can even talk to your dog while you mull over your thoughts or ponder a situation - your dog may not understand your words, but he will appreciate being part of your dialogue.
Do Yard Work
While this might not sound as fun, your dog will love seeing you outside, doing something interesting. If you have trees that drop their leaves, rake them into a pile and let your dog go wild. Join in, if you feel so daring - there are few ways as effective as playing with a dog to relive your carefree childhood years. Make a boring chore fun and engaging for you and your pet by keeping him close and turning tedious work into an opportunity for fun.
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Walks
A good, classic activity, walks are great in the cooling autumn weather, and as the weather improves, you might want to go for longer, more interesting walks. Try new locations, explore new neighborhoods, or even take your dog for a scenic hike. Your dog will love the new smells of the city (or nature), and you might find little gems of shops or cafes that you never knew existed. If you're not one for wandering, pick a destination beforehand and enjoy your journey.
Walking is a great way to bond with your dog, get some exercise, and just get out of the house for a little fresh air.
