Autumn Wellness Guide for Your NZ Dog: Cosy, Comfy & Covered for the Cooler Months

Ah, autumn in New Zealand. You can feel it in the air, can't you? That crispness replacing the summer haze, the leaves doing their colourful thing, and maybe, just maybe, the need for an extra blanket on the bed. Our dogs feel this shift too, and while cuddling up on a chilly evening is lovely, the changing season brings a few things we need to keep in mind to ensure our furry mates stay happy and healthy.

It’s not just about digging out your favourite beanie; it’s about tweaking their routine just a little bit. Let’s face it, shorter days and often wetter weather can throw a bit of a spanner in the works for our usual walks and outdoor fun.

So, What About Those Shorter Days?

Remember those long summer evening strolls? Yeah, they’re getting shorter! As the sun starts dipping earlier, especially noticeable after daylight saving finishes, our walkies schedule might need a shuffle.

• Lunchtime Adventures: If you work from home or have flexibility, a longer lunchtime walk can be a brilliant way to soak up that midday sun (when it decides to show up!).

• Safety First: For those dawn or dusk walks, visibility is key. Think reflective collars, leads, or even a little flashing light. It helps drivers see you both, especially on drizzly, grey days. You can find these easily online or at most pet stores.

• Indoor Fun: Some days, it's just going to be too miserable to spend ages outside. That’s okay! Time to get creative indoors. Puzzle toys, a game of hide-and-seek with their favourite toy (or you!), or even practicing some basic training commands can keep their minds busy and burn a bit of energy. Honestly, even 10-15 minutes of focused indoor activity can make a difference.

Wet Weather = Muddy Paws & Slippery Floors

You know what autumn rain means, right? Mud. Glorious mud. While some dogs seem to think rolling in it is the height of fashion, most of us prefer not to have muddy paw prints decorating the entire house.

Keeping a towel (an old, designated 'dog towel', naturally) by the door is pretty much standard practice for Kiwi dog owners in autumn and winter. A quick wipe-down can save your floors. For really muddy adventures, you might consider one of those paw-washing gadgets, or just a quick rinse with lukewarm water in the laundry tub or outside.

While you're down there, just take a quick peek between their pads – damp conditions can sometimes make skin a bit sensitive, and you want to make sure no little stones or twigs have hitched a ride. Keeping their skin healthy overall can definitely help – more on that in a sec.

Cosy Does It: Bedding Down for Cooler Nights

Just like we might add a duvet to our bed, our dogs appreciate a warmer spot to sleep as the temperature drops. This is especially true for:

• Senior dogs: Older pups often feel the cold more and might have achy joints that stiffen up in the cold.

• Puppies: Little ones haven't quite perfected regulating their body temperature yet.

• Short-coated breeds: Think Greyhounds, Whippets, Staffies – they don't have the natural insulation of a Husky!

• Dogs with health conditions: Especially arthritis or other joint issues.

Ensure their bed is in a draft-free spot and has plenty of cosy bedding. You might even consider a doggy jumper for breeds that really feel the chill, though maybe watch they don't overheat inside.

Supporting Them From the Inside Out: Nutrition & Supplements

Cooler weather, particularly the dampness that often comes with an NZ autumn southerly, can sometimes be a bit tough on the body – for us and our dogs! While good quality food is the foundation, sometimes a little extra support can go a long way during these seasonal shifts.

Here’s the thing, it’s not about magic fixes, but about giving their bodies the building blocks they need.

• Joint Health: You might notice your dog seems a bit stiffer getting up on a cold morning, or perhaps less enthusiastic about jumping into the car.Ingredients like Glucosamine, MSM, and Green-Lipped Mussel (a fantastic NZ resource!) are well-known for helping support joint health. Give FlexiPaw Joint health a try!

• Skin & Coat: Central heating coming on inside, combined with wet, windy conditions outside, can sometimes lead to dry, flaky, or itchy skin. A healthy skin barrier is their first line of defence! Supplements rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (like those from fish oil or flaxseed) are brilliant for nourishing the skin and coat from within, helping to maintain moisture and reduce itchiness. A shiny, healthy coat isn't just for looks; it's a sign of good underlying health.

It’s always a good idea to chat with your vet if you have specific concerns, of course, but adding a supportive supplement can be a simple way to help them navigate the autumn transition comfortably.

Disclaimer: The content on this website is for educational purpose only. We recommend you talk to your veterinarian if you have any concerns, if the lameness worsens or are unsure. Products on this website are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease. The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.