🍂 Fall Enrichment Games: 10 Sniffy, Snuggly Activities for Cool Weather

Cooler days and crisp evenings mean more time outdoors with your pup — and new opportunities to keep them entertained. Fall is the perfect season to try enrichment games that engage your dog’s nose, brain, and body without a ton of effort. From leaf piles to cozy blanket burritos, these activities are simple, fun, and safe for dogs of all ages.

Here are 10 easy ways to add excitement to your pup’s fall routine:

🐾 1. Leaf-Pile Fetch

Rake up a safe pile of leaves (make sure no sticks, bugs, or sharp objects are hiding inside) and toss a ball or toy in for your dog to retrieve. The crunchy sounds and new smells turn this classic game into an autumn adventure.

🐾 2. Pumpkin Treat Hunt

Hollow out a pumpkin, place a few apple or pumpkin cookies inside, and let your pup sniff them out. It’s a seasonal twist on a snuffle game — and a great photo opportunity!

🐾 3. Blanket Burrito

On chilly mornings, roll your dog’s favorite toys or treats in a blanket, then fold it up for them to unroll. It’s a snuggly, low-prep puzzle that keeps their nose busy indoors.

🐾 4. Apple Bobbing (Dog Style)

Fill a shallow tub with water and float apple slices or treats on top. Many dogs love the splashy challenge of fishing them out.

🐾 5. Autumn Scent Trail

Drag a treat bag or cookie across the yard, making a winding path. Hide the reward at the end and watch your pup follow their nose like a pro.

🐾 6. Cardboard Box Crunch

Take an old cardboard box, crumple up safe paper, and sprinkle a few cookies inside. Dogs love digging through the crunchy textures to find their surprise.

🐾 7. Fall-Themed Tug Toys

Use old scarves, flannels, or sturdy cloth to create a tug toy. The familiar fall scents and textures make this game extra cozy.

🐾 8. “Find the Pumpkin” Shell Game

Hide a small treat under one of three cups or mini pumpkins and shuffle them around. Let your pup paw, nose, or sniff to pick the right one.

🐾 9. Snuggle & Sniff Movie Night

Pile up blankets, put on a fall movie, and sprinkle a few mini cookies in between folds for your pup to find while cuddling.

🐾 10. Trick-for-Treat Challenge

Cooler weather is the perfect time to polish up old tricks or teach new ones. Use bite-sized pumpkin minis as rewards — they’re just the right size for training.

🍪 Final Thoughts

Enrichment doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few leaves, blankets, or seasonal snacks, you can create fun fall adventures that keep your pup’s mind sharp and their tail wagging.

Want to make the season even sweeter? Check out our Fall Collection at Big Head Barkery — from apple mini muffins to pumpkin cookies, we’ve got the perfect treats for all your pup’s autumn games.