When autumn arrives and the temperature starts to drop, many dogs suddenly seem to have a little more enthusiasm for their walks.
After the warmer days of summer, cooler weather can make walking much more comfortable, particularly for dogs with thicker coats or those who struggle in the heat.
But does that mean they actually need longer walks?
Cooler weather can make dogs more energetic
It is quite normal for some dogs to become more active when the weather cools down.
During warm weather, dogs may naturally slow down, seek shade and prefer shorter outings. Once temperatures become more comfortable, you might notice your dog walking faster, wanting to explore for longer or being far more interested in playing outdoors.
That does not necessarily mean their exercise requirements have suddenly changed, though.
Quality matters more than distance
A good walk does not have to mean covering several miles.
Allowing your dog time to sniff, explore and take in their surroundings can be just as valuable as simply walking for longer.
Sniffing provides mental stimulation and gives dogs the opportunity to investigate all those interesting smells that we barely notice.
A relaxed 30-minute walk with plenty of sniffing can sometimes tire a dog more than a much longer walk at a constant pace.
Think about your individual dog
There is no perfect walking time that suits every dog.
Age, breed, fitness, health and personality all make a difference.
Young, energetic dogs may enjoy longer autumn adventures, while older dogs might prefer several shorter outings throughout the day.
Dogs with joint problems can also become a little stiffer as the weather becomes colder, so suddenly increasing the length of their walks may not be ideal.
The best guide is your own dog.
Autumn brings a few extra things to consider
Cooler weather may be more comfortable, but autumn walks can also mean wet ground, mud, fallen leaves and darker evenings.
It is worth checking your dog's paws after walks for small stones, thorns or anything caught between the pads, particularly after woodland or countryside walks.
As daylight disappears earlier, visibility also becomes increasingly important, especially when walking near roads.
Make the most of autumn
Autumn can be one of the nicest times of year to get outdoors with your dog.
The temperatures are generally more comfortable, paths are quieter after the summer holidays and there are plenty of new smells for dogs to investigate.
There is no need to automatically make every walk longer just because the weather is cooler.
Instead, let your dog's age, fitness and enthusiasm guide you.
If they are happily trotting along and still keen to explore, enjoy a little longer outside together. If they are slowing down or ready to head home, that is perfectly fine too.
Sometimes the best dog walk isn't the longest one, it is simply the one your dog enjoys.
