As the vibrant colours of fall fill the air and temperatures start to dip, it’s the perfect time to reinforce important training skills and get your dog ready for the colder months ahead. The crisp autumn weather offers an ideal training environment before winter’s challenges—like freezing temperatures, ice, and snow—take over. Whether it’s leash walking, recall, or cold-weather preparedness, here are some helpful fall training tips to ensure your dog is ready for winter. 

Reinforce Good Leash Walking

One of the best ways to prepare your dog for winter is by reinforcing good leash walking habits during the fall. This time of year presents varying weather conditions that can challenge your dog’s leash manners—everything from muddy paths to fallen leaves. 

1. Loose Leash Walking: Practicing loose leash walking is essential for making winter walks safer and more enjoyable. Encourage your dog to walk beside you rather than pulling ahead by rewarding them with treats or praise when they walk at your side. 
2. Dealing with Distractions: Fall brings plenty of distractions like swirling leaves, squirrels, and other wildlife. Use these moments to train your dog to focus on you. Bring high-value treats to reinforce their attention on you when distractions are present. 
3. Muddy or Slippery Conditions: Slippery fall trails can prepare your dog for winter ice. Practice walking on wet or muddy surfaces, so your dog learns to stay calm and balanced in less-than-ideal conditions. You may want to teach them the “wait” cue to slow down when paths get tricky. 

Master Recall Before Winter

Winter weather can make off-leash play difficult or even dangerous, but fall is the perfect time to polish your dog’s recall skills. Having a strong recall is crucial, especially if your dog will be off-leash in snowy parks or icy areas. 

1. Start Indoors or in a Secure Area: Begin recall training in a distraction-free environment like your home or backyard. Use a cheerful tone and reward your dog generously when they come to you. 
2. Gradually Increase Distractions: As your dog becomes more confident in coming when called, start practicing in environments with more distractions, like parks or trails. Use a long leash to give them freedom to explore, while still ensuring you have control. 
3. Be Consistent: Always reward your dog for returning to you, even if it takes longer than expected. Consistency is key to ensuring your dog associates coming when called with positive experiences. 

Cold Weather Preparation

Preparing your dog for cold weather goes beyond leash manners and recall—it’s about making sure they’re comfortable and safe when temperatures drop. Here are a few ways to get your dog ready for winter’s challenges: 

1. Acclimate Your Dog to Gear: If your dog isn’t used to wearing cold-weather gear like coats or booties, start getting them accustomed to it during the fall. Let them wear the gear for short periods indoors, rewarding them for staying calm and comfortable. 
2. Train “Paw Wipes”: Winter walks often result in muddy, snowy paws, so now is the time to teach your dog to accept paw wiping. After each walk, gently wipe their paws with a damp cloth, rewarding them for staying still. This will make winter clean-ups much easier. 
3. Prepare for Shorter Walks: As the days get colder, your dog may not want to stay outside as long. Use fall to get them comfortable with the idea of shorter, more frequent walks. You can also introduce indoor activities to make up for the reduced outdoor time.

Indoor Training Games for Rainy Days

Rainy fall days can make outdoor training difficult, but that doesn’t mean your dog’s training has to stop. Indoor games are a great way to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated, even when the weather isn’t cooperating. 

1. Hide and Seek: This is a fun game that reinforces your dog’s recall skills while providing mental stimulation. Have someone hold your dog while you hide in another room, then call them to come find you. Reward them when they locate you with treats and praise. 
2. Interactive Puzzle Toys: Puzzle toys are an excellent way to engage your dog’s mind indoors. These toys challenge your dog to think and work for their reward, preventing boredom during rainy days. 
3. Indoor Fetch: If you have the space, play a gentle game of fetch indoors using soft toys. This helps your dog burn off energy and practice their “drop it” and “fetch” commands. 

Would You Like Expert Training Support?

Toronto Humane Society’s Public Training and Behaviour Program is here to help. With expert trainers and a variety of classes, we can guide you and your pet through any training challenges, ensuring a stress-free transition into winter. Learn more about your classes.