As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s no better time to grab the lead and head outdoors with your furry best friend. National Walk Your Dog Week, running from 1st–7th October 2025, is the perfect reminder to get moving, enjoy the fresh autumn air, and strengthen that special bond between you and your dog.
Here at Clinipaw, we believe that every dog deserves to feel happy, healthy, and full of life, and regular walks play a huge part in that.
Why walking your dog matters
Daily walks do far more than just burn energy. They keep your dog physically fit, mentally stimulated, and emotionally balanced. A good walk helps:
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Maintain a healthy weight – Regular movement supports digestion, metabolism, and helps prevent obesity-related issues.
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Support joint and muscle health – Gentle, consistent activity keeps joints flexible and muscles strong - especially important as dogs get older.
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Provide mental stimulation – Every new smell, sound, and sight helps keep your pup’s brain sharp and engaged.
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Encourage calm behaviour – Dogs who get enough exercise tend to be happier, calmer, and more content at home.
Autumn walking tips for dog owners
Make the most of the season with these simple tips for safe, enjoyable walks:
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Stay visible: Shorter days mean darker walks - use reflective collars, leads, or lights to keep both of you seen.
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Dress for the weather: Autumn can be unpredictable! Keep a waterproof jacket handy and consider a cosy coat for your dog if they’re prone to getting chilly.
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Protect their paws: Wet leaves and debris can hide sharp objects - give paws a quick wipe and check after each walk.
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Bring water: Even on cooler days, dogs can get thirsty after a good run or play session.
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Avoid autumn hazards: Watch out for acorns, conkers, and certain mushrooms, which can be toxic to dogs.
Fun autumn walk ideas
If you’re looking to make your National Walk Your Dog Week extra special, try mixing up your routes:
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Woodland wanders: Explore local trails or forests for a sensory adventure your dog will love.
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Beach strolls: Many beaches are dog-friendly again in autumn - perfect for sandy paws and sea air.
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Park playdates: Meet up with friends or local dog walkers to make it social for both you and your pup.
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Charity walks: Check for local charity events and walk for a cause close to your heart.
Supporting your dog’s wellbeing beyond the walk
A balanced routine goes hand-in-hand with good nutrition. After all, happy walks start with a healthy body. Adding a nutritional topper to your dog’s daily meals is a simple way to support joint health, energy, and digestion - especially during the cooler months when activity levels can change.
At Clinipaw, we create gentle, science-backed nutritional powder toppers for dogs that make mealtimes more enjoyable while supporting long-term health from the inside out. Because when your dog feels great, every walk becomes an adventure.
Step out, bond, and explore
National Walk Your Dog Week is a wonderful reminder to slow down, take in the beauty of autumn, and enjoy those moments with your loyal companion. So lace up your boots, grab the lead, and step into the season together - your pup will thank you for it.
