Fall is here, which means it’s time to embrace all things pumpkin! And your dog doesn’t have to miss out on the fun—there are tons of pumpkin-themed activities you can both enjoy this season. From tasty treats to photo ops, here are some paw-some pumpkin activities that will make autumn extra special for you and your pup.
Visit a Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Patch
- Why it’s Great: Many pumpkin patches welcome dogs, so you can roam the grounds together while picking out the perfect pumpkins for your porch.
- Photo Opp: Snap a few photos of your dog in the patch—maybe even peeking out from behind a pumpkin or two for some adorable autumn memories.
- Safety Tip: Keep your dog on a lead and watch out for any pumpkin stems or vines that might be sharp.
Host a Pumpkin Carving Party (for Humans and Dogs!)
- Why it’s Great: Turn pumpkin carving into a group activity with friends, family, and of course, your pup! Set up an outdoor table with pumpkin carving tools for the humans and a few dog-safe pumpkin treats for your pup.
- Dog-Friendly Snacks: While you carve, let your dog snack on some plain, cooked pumpkin or pumpkin dog treats.
- Safety Tip: Keep the carving tools out of reach of curious pups, and give them a chew toy to keep them busy while you work.
Bake Pumpkin Dog Treats Together
- Why it’s Great: Baking homemade treats is a fun fall activity, and pumpkin is packed with fiber and vitamins A, C, and E, making it a great ingredient for your pup.
- Simple Recipe: Try mixing canned pumpkin (plain, not pie filling), oats, and a bit of peanut butter. Shape the dough into small treats and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Pro Tip: Involve your dog by letting them sniff the ingredients or lick the spoon—just make sure it’s safe, and you’ll have an eager helper in the kitchen!
Create a DIY Pumpkin Puzzle for Mental Stimulation
- Why it’s Great: Dogs love using their problem-solving skills, so turn a small pumpkin into an interactive puzzle.
- How-To: Hollow out a small pumpkin, carve a few small holes, and hide treats or toys inside. Let your dog try to figure out how to get the treats out of the pumpkin!
- Safety Tip: Always supervise your dog to make sure they don’t eat any part of the pumpkin shell, which could be hard for them to digest.
Important Pumpkin Safety Tips
- Use Only Plain Pumpkin Puree: Avoid pumpkin pie fillings, which often contain spices and sugars that aren’t safe for dogs.
- Feed in Moderation: While pumpkin is healthy, too much can cause digestive upset.
- Supervise with Pumpkins: If your dog shows too much interest in chewing on a pumpkin, redirect them with a dog-safe toy or chew instead.