5 Fall Activities to Enjoy with Your Dog

Fall is here. What can be better than getting outdoors to enjoy the milder weather and colorful scenery? Taking your dog along to enjoy it with you, that's what. Here are a few ways you and your dog can celebrate fall together this year.

1. Dine Al Fresco

If you're in dog-friendly Dallas, Texas, you have a number of options for dining out with your pooch. Twisted Root Burger Co., Eatzi's Market & Bakery, Bread Winners and Henry's Majestic are just a few of the Dallas-area restaurants that welcome dogs in their outdoor dining areas. No matter where you live, you're likely to find a restaurant nearby that boasts a pet-friendly patio, but be sure to check state laws and local ordinances, as this is not allowed everywhere. If not, you can always take your pup on a picnic in the park.

2. Join a Halloween Costume Parade

If you live in New York City, put your costume creativity to the test and sign your dog up for Luna Park's Halloween Harvest: Dog Parade and Costume Contest at Coney Island. While you're there, enjoy a number of other fun Halloween activities, including pumpkin picking and trick-or-treating. If you're not in New York, several cities across the nation host pet-related Halloween events, so check your city's event calendar.

3. Get Lost in a Giant Maze

Fall fun in New England wouldn't be complete without taking on the challenge of Mike's Maze. This giant corn maze, located in Sunderland, Massachusetts, changes from year to year and boasts elaborate trails carved into the corn based on fantastical themes. Bring your pooch along on the annual Dog Walker's Weekend to help you sniff your way out. Traversing this maze could take a while, so be sure to bring plenty of water, along with a protein bar for yourself and some Milk-Bone® Trail Mix for your pup.

4. Support a Good Cause

If you'll be spending Halloween weekend in Long Beach, California, bring your canine companion for some fun in the sun at Paws & Schnauze, an ocean-front pet festival that supports local pet rescue and adoption. Take in the displays and attractions during the Fun Walk Parade around the entire venue. Pet costumes are encouraged but optional.

5. Go Apple (or Pumpkin) Picking

Wherever you'll be this fall, chances are you'll find a nearby apple orchard or pumpkin patch that is happy to have your leashed dog tag along. Dogs love to sniff out new items coming into the home, so your pup will appreciate the important job of inspecting the produce. While some welcome dogs in all areas at all times, others might restrict dogs to certain areas or from participating in certain attractions, so it's a good idea to call ahead and find out the rules before you go.

Do you have a favorite outdoor activity to do in the fall with your dog? Tell us about it in the comments. And find more outdoor pet-friendly activities located near you with our Pet Places map!

Photo Credit 1: "dog" by flightlog via Flickr.
Photo Credit 2: "221-2128_IMG" by Flash and Mel via Flickr