Why autumn is perfect for dog walks

There’s something special about autumn in the Upstate. The crisp air rolling over the Blue Ridge foothills, the golden colors along trails in Paris Mountain State Park, and the crunch of leaves under your pup’s paws in neighborhoods from Greenville to Simpsonville, Greer, and Travelers Rest.

Dogs love it too — the cooler weather makes long walks far more comfortable than the muggy summer heat. Plus, every fallen leaf, acorn, and fresh breeze brings new scents and sights for them to explore.

Still, autumn comes with a few hidden risks. Here are some tips to make your fall dog walks both fun and safe.

Switch up your routine

As we move closer to winter, daylight hours shrink. If you normally walk your dog after dinner, you may find yourself out in the dark. Start shifting your schedule now by walking earlier in the evening and a little later in the morning.

This also helps your pup adjust when the clocks go back. You may even need to tweak feeding times a bit — dogs thrive on routine, so gradual changes are easier for them.

Stay visible on evening walks

If you do end up walking around dusk or after dark — say along Main Street in Greer or through neighborhood parks in Mauldin — visibility is everything. Wear bright or reflective clothing, and give your pup a hi-vis vest or a light-up collar. These simple tools make you both much easier for drivers and cyclists to see.

Even if your dog normally has great recall, keep them on leash at night. Low visibility can disorient even the most confident pups.

Seasonal dangers to watch out for

Lungworm

Cool, damp autumn weather is paradise for slugs and snails — and that’s a problem. Dogs can accidentally ingest lungworm larvae when they sniff or chew in wet areas. This parasite can be fatal if untreated. The only real protection is regular worming treatment, so check in with your vet to make sure your dog’s parasite prevention is up to date.

Toxic autumn plants and objects

Conkers (horse chestnuts): Fun for kids, but dangerous for dogs. They can block airways and contain toxins harmful if swallowed.

Acorns: Contain tannic acid, which can upset stomachs or even damage kidneys in large amounts.

Slug pellets: Still common in Greenville gardens. They contain metaldehyde, highly toxic to dogs. Even a small amount can cause tremors and seizures.

Wet leaf piles: They may look fun to dive into, but damp leaves grow mold and bacteria that can make dogs very sick.

Keep an eye on what your pup is sniffing and, if you suspect ingestion of any toxin, call your vet immediately.

Should I clean my dog after a walk?

Absolutely. A quick rinse or wipe-down after autumn walks is more than just good hygiene — it can be lifesaving.

Alabama rot (CRGV): Though rare, this disease has been linked to muddy walks. It causes skin sores and, in severe cases, kidney failure.

Ticks: Still active in autumn. A once-over after walks in places like Conestee Nature Preserve or wooded trails in Travelers Rest can help you spot them early. If ticks are removed within 24 hours, the risk of Lyme disease drops dramatically.

At Pawsitively Southern Grooming in Greenville, SC, our team takes this extra care seriously. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog’s coat looking sharp but also gives us the chance to spot early warning signs like ticks, skin irritation, or unusual bumps.

Enjoy autumn walks — safely

Fall is a beautiful time to get outside with your pup, whether you’re exploring the Swamp Rabbit Trail or strolling through the quiet streets of Simpsonville. With a few simple precautions — adjusting your schedule, staying visible, watching for seasonal hazards, and cleaning up afterward — you and your dog can enjoy every cool, colorful walk together.

And if you want extra peace of mind, remember that Pawsitively Southern Grooming is here to help keep your pet healthy, happy, and ready for every season.