Autumn with your dog: 5 tips

1. Keep your dog dry with a dog coat

In autumn, rain showers are common and a wet coat can cause your dog to cool down quickly. Smaller dogs, short-haired breeds and older dogs especially benefit from extra protection. A well-fitting dog raincoat keeps your dog dry and ensures freedom of movement during walks. There are also many different dog coats, from lightweight versions for autumn to warm winter coats. For a broader overview, explore our range of dog clothing. You can also check if your dog needs a coat and what makes a good dog coat.

2. Ensure visibility in the dark

During autumn, dusk sets in quickly, making visibility extra important. Make sure your dog stands out in the dark. For evening walks, choose reflective accessories and lights that suit your route and pace. Many owners combine light-up collars with safety lights attached to the collar or harness, so your dog is visible both nearby and from a distance. Walking along busy roads or on unlit paths? A reflective vest increases the visibility of your dog’s entire body.

3. Watch out for hazards: acorns and mushrooms

Parks and woods are filled with acorns, chestnuts and mushrooms in autumn. Prevent your dog from picking them up or eating them, as acorns are toxic to dogs and can cause not only poisoning but also intestinal blockages. Sweet chestnuts and pinecones are not toxic but may cause obstructions in the digestive tract. Horse chestnuts, however, are poisonous. Mushrooms, such as the fly agaric or the death cap, can also be very dangerous. Since it is difficult to know which mushrooms are toxic, it is best to keep your dog away from them altogether.

4. Beware of limber tail

Many dogs enjoy a splash in a pond or stream even in autumn. However, cold water combined with physical exertion can lead to limber tail in dogs. In this condition, the tail hangs limp and the base is often painful or sensitive. Reduce the risk by drying your dog thoroughly after swimming with a quick-drying towel or a dog bathrobe, and then allow your dog to rest. Provide a comfortable place to lie down, such as an orthopaedic bed that relieves pressure on the joints. This helps muscles recover more quickly and ensures your dog feels fit again sooner.

5. Provide your dog with a cosy rest at home

After a brisk or rainy autumn walk, nothing is nicer than a warm, cosy spot to relax. Our range includes a variety of dog beds that provide extra comfort during the colder months. Choose a fluffy dog bed that radiates warmth and gives a sense of security, or a donut dog bed where your dog can curl up comfortably. For dogs that need more support, orthopaedic beds provide relief for joints and muscles. This way, after every autumn walk, your dog can relax and recharge.

Discover all autumn essentials for your dog

With the right preparation, autumn becomes a wonderful season to enjoy together. From warm dog coats to safe lighting and cosy beds – at Vetsend, you will find everything to help your dog get through autumn safe, healthy and comfortable.