After the hottest summer on record, there have been days where it feels like fall will never come! But, as time marches on, the ninety degree days fade and autumn surely arrives. Fall is a wonderful time of year to do a variety of activities with your pup, and there is almost always something going on in the Triangle area.
Dog Parks
Although dog parks are generally open year round, fall is a great time to get out there and meet some new human and dog friends. Most parks are open during daylight hours. Make sure your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations, and find a local dog park to spend some quality time together outside. Check out the fall foliage and run around in some leaf piles!
Dog Fundraising Walks
If you are interested in taking your dog to an organized event and potentially raising some money for area pets, there are a number of dog walks scheduled this fall. Some organizations also do virtual walks if you want to raise money and complete a walk on your own terms and timeframe.
Paws for Life Walk in Rolesville
Date & Time: Saturday, October 3, 2026 (Registration at 8:30 AM, 1-mile dog walk starts at 10:15 AM)
Venue: Town Park behind Sanford Creek Elementary School, Rolesville, NC
Barkitecture Cary
Date & Time: Saturday, October 10, 2026
Venue: Downtown Cary Park (327 South Academy Street, Cary, NC)
Pumpkin Patch
Although not all pumpkin patches or farms allow pets, some places do permit dogs. Some patches that explicitly allow leashed dogs include:
- Spring Haven Farm
- Family Farm on Avent Ferry
- Porter Farms
- State Farmers Market
Check with the location before going to make sure your pet is welcome!
Explore Fall Leaves
As the fall foliage starts to burst with colors, you can take your pup on a walk to marvel at fall’s beauty. You can also have fun raking leaves into a pile to play in. If you are feeling ambitious, you could even take a hike at some of NC’s beautiful parks:
- Eno River State Park
- Linville Falls
- Hanging Rock State Park
- Raven Rock State Park
- Morrow Mountain State Park
Bake Fall Treats
You have probably heard of (or tasted) pumpkin spiced lattes or other pumpkin-flavored human treats, but did you know dogs can also have pumpkin? Cook together and get your dog in on the pumpkin fun. Here are links to some dog-friendly recipes:
Halloween Photo Shoot
Your dog is adorable. Your dog might be even more adorable in a Halloween costume. Have fun getting dressed up together and taking photos. You can do a themed costume together and even take your pet trick-or-treating. Some homes even give away dog treats in addition to candy!
The best or funniest costume depends on your dog and themes, but here are a couple of good ones:
- Taco and avocado
- Ghosts
- Hot dog and ketchup/ mustard
- Grogu and Mandalorian
- Mail carrier and dog
- Dinosaur and human
We love pets (and fall) as much as you do. Enjoy some time with your pets during this beautiful season! If fall is also taking you away on a trip and you are traveling without your pets, or, if you just need help with regular walks, Peak City Puppy can help.
