15 Autumn Dog-Walking Tips for Pet Parents

1. Shine Bright Like a Diamond (Or At Least a Hi-Vis Vest)

The clocks change, evenings creep in, and suddenly it feels like midnight at 5pm. Reflective collars, leads, and clip-on lights are your best friends. (We even have Hiviz coats available in store!) Not only will cars and other road users see your dog, but you’ll avoid losing them in a game of “Where’s Wally?” among the leaves.

2. The Leaf Buffet (Also Known as “Don’t Eat That!”)

Acorns, conkers, and mushrooms might look Instagram-worthy, but they’re not dog-friendly snacks. Keep a close eye on snuffling noses, or you’ll be googling “is conker poisoning fatal” on the way home. If you are unsure if yor

3. Fur, Fur Everywhere

Just when you’ve put the hoover away, autumn coats start shedding. Regular brushing keeps fur tumbleweeds from taking over your living room. Our West Country Pets grooming kits are perfect for keeping coats smooth and furniture semi-respectable…and they are currently half prince!

4. Mud, Glorious Mud

Autumn = soggy fields. Keep a stash of towels or a drying coat in the car, to avoid muddy shake offs, and soggy chills. Unless, of course, you enjoy ‘au de wet dog’ on your upholstery!

5. The Great Poo Hunt

Nothing screams “romance” like rummaging through leaf piles, or muddy track verges trying to find dog poo. Stick close for when they ‘pop a squat’ and take extra bags. Trust us, you’ll need them!
Pro tip – for longer adventures, unscented poo bags double as an emergency water bowl!

6. Muuushhh!

Leaves, smells, SQUIRRELS! The sheer thrill of puddles… autumn can turn even the ‘goodest’ boys and girls into excitable husky ‘wannabes’!  A well fitting harness saves your shoulders and keeps your pup safe. We’ll even fit it for free in-store, (even if you purchased elsewhere), because yours and your pets safety is paramount. Having proper control in slippery situations will prevent you becoming a viral reel of bogginess too!

7. Beaches in Autumn: Beautiful but Brutal

The sea looks dramatic in autumn—and so will you or your dog if a rogue wave tries to take you out. Ensure you know the tide times. Keep control of your pup at all times, and on lead if their recall is intermittent, especially when near the surf! There is nothing stopping you admiring from a safe distance.

8. Snacks = Happiness

Cooler air means more energy burned when adventuring. Bring along treats (we, of course, stock plenty) perfect for training, to reward recall, fuel your pup, and stop them snacking on something unspeakable in the hedge.

9. Paws Need Love Too

Between grit, twigs, and damp ground, paws can take a beating.Clean, wipe and check after every walk—it’s a tiny act of love that prevents big problems. ensure claws are kept to a healthy length too, so as not to cause unbalanced weight bearing – especially important for older dogs, and those carrying extra weight.

10. Fleas & Ticks Don’t Hibernate

Unfortunately…just because it’s chilly doesn’t mean parasites have gone! They’re lurking in leaf piles like freeloaders at a buffet. Stay on top of prevention. Did you know – furry treats, like cow ears, or rabbit ears are natural wormers, acting like pipe cleaners as they pass through the digestive tract! Alway check for ticks after walks, nose to tail, head to toe beans!

11. Waistline Watch

Longer nights = more sofa time!  Don’t forget to adjust food portions (and treat frequency!) when walks get shorter, and if possible sneak in healthy seasonal snacks (cooked pumpkin is great for digestion—no, not pumpkin spiced lattes). We have loads of great tips and tricks on managing your pooches weight, from snuffle mats, to stuffed Kongs…longer meal times, and brain games can be a great way to incorporate enrichment when the weather is apocalyptic

12. ID Tags & Chips: Don’t Risk It

With dimmer mornings, and dusk sneaking in quicker each evening, less light means less visibility and dogs can vanish in a blink. ID tags and up-to-date microchips are non-negotiable. Think of it as their “get me home quick” card. Even the best behaved pooch can get lost and disoriented, its not one to risk, see our post on UK ID law.

13. Stiff Joints in Cold Snaps

Older dogs can feel the chill in their bones, this is because they can struggle to regulate their body temperature. Remember shorter, more frequent walks can help too.  Older dogs really benefit from a warm coat on the chilly days, and make sure they are dried and warmed once the walk is over! Make sure beds are warm, cosy and comfy. A little TLC does go a long way! Natural supplements like Green Lipped Muscles, Collagen, MSM, Boswellia can also help ease their discomfort and support joints, even along side prescribed medication.

14. Halloween Havoc

Sweets, costumes, and constant doorbells—it’s a canine nightmare. Keep chocolate and xylitol well out of reach, and create a safe, cosy den for your dog away from the action. Tip 15 gives great advice on how to best prepare!

15. Stormy Nights, and Winter Celebrations = Snuggly Dens

Autumn storms can rattle nerves and winter celebrations involving fire works can cause great amounts of stress for our pets. Prepare well in advance – If using natural calming supplements, ensure you start administering it at least 4 weeks prior so your pet has full effect for when it needs it most. For the exceptionally flighty pooches, dont forget those prescriptions are easily accessible. Spend time building a safe spot with lots of blankets and toys, pop on some calming music, make use of calming defuses and sprays and let your pup ride it out in comfort.

Wrapping It All Up (In a Cosy Blanket)

Autumn with dogs is messy, magical, and sometimes maddening—but we wouldn’t swap it for the world! With the right kit, a sense of humour, and a towel or two, you’ll be ready for whatever the season throws at you (and your carpet).

Find everything you need—from reflective gear to grooming kits, natural treats, and free harness fittings—at Stable Door Pets in Bude and Holsworthy Pets in Holsworthy. Or browse our ranges online at westcountrypets.co.uk.

Here’s to crisp walks, wagging tails, and muddy boots. Autumn, we’re ready for you.

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