Written by: Alexis McCagh
As we prepare for fall, it’s important to remember to adjust our dog’s routines too. Seasonal shifts affect our dogs just as much as they do us, so we want to make sure they are ready for the cooler days ahead. Adjusting their routine and preparing for fall will keep them healthy, happy, and comfortable. Here are 10 essential tips to help get your dog ready for fall.
As the temperatures drop, you may want to consider adjusting your dog’s diet. Cooler weather means your dog might require more calories to maintain their body heat and weight, especially if they stay active during fall activities like hiking or outdoor play. Start by increasing their food intake slightly, monitoring their weight, and adjusting as needed. Adding seasonal vegetables like pumpkin or sweet potato can offer extra nutrients, support digestion, and give their meals a delicious fall twist. These nutrient-dense options are great sources of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that will help keep your dog healthy and energized through the season.
2. Consider a Joint Supplement
As the weather cools, some dogs may experience increased discomfort and stiffness in their joints, especially senior dogs. If you aren’t already giving your dog a joint supplement, fall is the perfect time to consider adding one to their routine. Look for supplements that contain key ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, which help reduce inflammation and support mobility. If your dog is already on a joint supplement, fall is a great time to reassess their needs and make any necessary adjustments.
Pro tip: Consult with your vet to get the best recommendations tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
3. Prepare for Seasonal Shedding
As fall sets in, many dogs enter a shedding cycle as their coats transition from light summer fur to a thicker winter coat. Regular grooming is essential during this time to minimize shedding, reduce matting, and keep your dog's coat healthy. Investing in a high-quality brush designed for your dog’s specific coat type can make a big difference in managing the shedding. In addition to brushing, use a gentle shampoo that’s free of harsh chemicals and unnecessary ingredients to maintain your dog’s skin health while keeping their coat clean and shiny. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog looking their best but also reduces the amount of fur around your home.
Pro tip: If your dog isn’t a fan of grooming, introduce them to it slowly and make it a positive experience. Reward them with their favorite Zora’s Best Friendz Beef Liver Treats to keep them happy and calm during grooming sessions!
4. Protect Their Paws
As the temperatures drop and the terrain becomes rougher, your dog’s paws may face more wear and tear during walks and hikes. Moisturizing their paws with a paw balm or dog wax can help protect them from cracking caused by cold, rough surfaces. Boots are another great option, especially for dogs that can adjust to wearing them. Dog boots offer extra protection against wet, muddy, or cold ground, keeping your dog’s paws comfortable and safe. Regularly checking and cleaning their paws after outdoor adventures can help prevent irritation and injury.
5. Check for Ticks
Even though summer is over, ticks remain active throughout the fall, particularly in heavily wooded areas or tall grass. It’s important to make checking your dog for ticks a regular habit after spending time outdoors. Ticks tend to gravitate toward warm areas, so pay special attention to spots like their ears, belly, armpits, and paws. Make sure to always check yourself, too!
Consider using a natural tick repellent before outdoor adventures to provide extra protection for both you and your dog. Staying vigilant can help prevent tick-borne diseases and keep your dog healthy during the fall season. If you think you or your dog has been bitten by a tick, be sure to schedule a vet or doctor’s appointment as soon as possible. Early detection is key when it comes to preventing tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease, so it’s important to monitor both yourself and your dog for any unusual symptoms after a tick bite. Look for signs such as fever, lethargy, joint pain, or a rash.
6. Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Hydration is just as important in cooler months as it is during the summer, but it’s easy to overlook when the temperatures drop. Dogs still need plenty of water, especially if they’re active outdoors. Always ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water throughout the day, whether at home or on fall hikes. For an extra boost of hydration, you can add water or bone broth to their meals. Bone broth not only adds flavor but also provides extra nutrients and helps maintain your dog’s overall hydration. Keeping your dog properly hydrated will support their energy levels, digestion, and overall health, no matter the season.
7. Monitor Their Weight
While some dogs may be more active in the fall, others might slow down, which can lead to weight gain. It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s weight and ensure they’re still getting plenty of exercise, even if they’re spending more time indoors. Regular walks, playtime, and keeping up with their usual activity level will help prevent unwanted weight gain.
Pro tip: If your dog is spending more time indoors, consider using enrichment tools like puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, or interactive games to keep them mentally and physically engaged. These activities can help burn calories and prevent boredom while keeping your dog fit and happy during the cooler months.
8. Invest in a Supportive Bed
As discussed above, colder weather can cause discomfort for some dogs, especially seniors who may have arthritis or other joint issues. Investing in a supportive, orthopedic dog bed can make a significant difference in keeping your dog comfortable and cozy during the cooler months. Opt for a bed with memory foam, as it can help relieve pressure on their joints, providing added comfort and support.
Personal note: My dog Larry, who has severe joint issues, benefits greatly from a supportive orthopedic bed that helps with his joint pain. In addition to the bed, I use a heating pad a few times a week to provide extra relief, especially after his underwater treadmill sessions. The combination of a good bed and joint relief tools like heating pads can really improve your dog’s comfort and quality of life, especially during fall and winter.
9. Plan for Fall Adventures
Fall is such a beautiful time of year and a great opportunity to spend time outdoors with your pup. Consider these fun adventures to enjoy the season together:
- Hiking Through Scenic Trails: Many dog-friendly hiking trails offer the perfect way to enjoy the crisp air and colorful foliage. Take your pup along to explore nature and appreciate the changing leaves.
- Visit a Pumpkin Patch: Look for a local pumpkin patch that welcomes dogs. You can pick out some pumpkins for decorating at home and even share some fresh pumpkin with your dog—it’s great for digestion!
- Go Apple Picking: Head to an orchard that allows dogs and spend the day apple picking. Don’t forget to share some fresh apple slices with your pup (just make sure to avoid the seeds).
- Attend a Dog-Friendly Fall Festival: Many towns host fall festivals where dogs are welcome. Check out local events for a fun day out with your dog, and maybe even make some new furry friends.
- Visit a Dog-Friendly Brewery: Enjoy a relaxed day at a local brewery that’s pet-friendly. Meet up with friends and their dogs for a fun “pup-date” while you sip on some seasonal brews.
Make sure you have everything you need when planning fun fall activities with your dog, including their collar and leash, a collapsible water bowl, and plenty of their Zora’s Best Friendz Beef Liver Treats to keep them energized and happy during your adventures. Having these essentials on hand will ensure that your pup is comfortable and ready for all the fun fall has to offer!
10. Prepare for Shorter Days
As the days get shorter, it's important to adjust your dog's routine to accommodate the changing light. Consider shifting your walks to earlier in the day so you can still enjoy some sunlight. If evening walks are necessary, be sure to equip both you and your dog with reflective gear, such as collars, leashes, or jackets, to ensure safety in low-light conditions. In addition, you might need to adjust your dog's mealtimes to help their body gradually adapt to the time changes. Consistency with meal schedules will help your dog adjust more smoothly as daylight decreases. This small change will keep them comfortable and help maintain their regular routine throughout the season.
Conclusion
As we prepare for fall, it's important to remember to adjust our dog’s routines too. Seasonal shifts affect our dogs just as much as they do us, so we want to make sure they are ready for the cooler days ahead. By making small changes to their routine, you can ensure they stay healthy, happy, and comfortable throughout the season. From adjusting their diet and managing seasonal shedding to planning fun fall adventures and preparing for shorter days, these 10 essential tips will help you and your pup make the most of the beautiful autumn months.
Don’t forget to bring along some Zora’s Best Friendz Beef Liver Treats to keep your dog motivated and energized during all of your fun fall activities. With the right preparation and a few healthy treats, your dog can enjoy fall just as much as you do!
About the Author: Alexis McCagh, holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and has been working in the pet industry for over six years, combining her expertise with a passion for animal care to connect with pet parents on a deep, personal level. She holds certifications in Pet Food Nutrition from Dogs Naturally and Canine Nutrition from the Feed Real Institute, providing expert advice on pet health and nutrition. Alexis is an active blogger and social media advocate, using her platform to help pet parents make informed decisions about their dogs' well-being. She is a devoted Dog Mom to Larry, who has taught her the importance of resilience and the power of unconditional love in the journey of pet care.
