Healthy Autumnal Foods for Your Dog
October 22, 2024 | By David Jackson
The Halloween season is full of tasty treats for us humans to enjoy, but is there anything you can safely share with your dog?
While it’s no surprise that most of the sweets and goodies we love aren’t safe for our furry friends, that doesn’t mean they have to miss out on all the fun. In fact, there are a few seasonal fruits and vegetables that are not only safe for dogs but also packed with nutrients.
These healthy options can be a great way to include your pup in the holiday festivities while keeping their health in mind.
In this article, we will look at two fruits that are readily available during the autumn months.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Safe and Healthy Autumnal Foods for Your Dog
 Apples
Rich in vitamins, low in fat and high in fibre, apples offer several health benefits for our canine friends.
Not to mention, chewing apple slices can help clean a dog’s teeth and freshen their breath.
However, you do need to be mindful when preparing apples for your dogs.
You see, apple pips contain traces of cyanide, which can be harmful to dogs (a few pips shouldn’t cause harm, but it’s best to steer clear).
Plus, the core can pose as a choking hazard to your dog.
But, once you’ve removed the core and seeds, apples make for a healthy, crunchy treat for your dogs.
Pumpkin
I talk more about the benefits of feeding your dog pumpkin here, but for the purpose of this article, here's a quick insight...
 Rich in fibre and nutrients, pumpkin is great for a dog’s digestion. Whether your dog is bunged up or suffering with loose stools, pumpkin can help either get things moving or help solidify runny poops.
It’s also low in calories and the high fibre content makes pumpkins naturally filling. If your dog is on a diet this could be a great ingredient to introduce them to.
Plus, it’s also packed with vitamins to help support eye health, boost the immune system, and promote healthy skin and coat. Just remember, when feeding pumpkin to your dog, it is important to be sure it's cooked, plain and not spiced or sweetened.
You can actually find lots of pumpkin products aimed at dogs online and in high end pet shops. Most of the time people choose to add pumpkin in the form of a powder!
In Conclusion
Both of these foods can be easily incorporated into your dog’s diet. One way to do this would be through adding them as a nutritious topper on their existing food.
Or, you could seek out foods and treats which already have pumpkin and apples in their ingredients list (be sure to check out our Dog Food Directory to find foods including certain ingredients).
Of course, if you wanted to get creative you could even try using these ingredients when making your dog homemade treats. If you aren’t sure where to begin with homemade treats, there are thousands of recipes online to get you started. Just always be sure to double check the recipes you use are 100% dog friendly.
It’s also important to mention that you should always introduce new foods and ingredients slowly and in moderation. Watch for signs of digestive upset like vomiting, loose stools, or gas. If you notice any of these symptoms you may have fed too much too soon, or these foods may just not agree with your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other autumn foods are safe for dogs?
In addition to pumpkin and apples, sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans are excellent autumnal options for dogs. These veggies are rich in vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants that support overall health. Always ensure they are cooked and unseasoned before feeding them to your dog. Foods like turkey (without bones or seasoning) can also be a nutritious seasonal treat. Avoid foods with ingredients like butter, spices, or sugar.
Is cinnamon safe for dogs?
In small amounts, cinnamon is safe for dogs and can even offer some health benefits. However, avoid giving large quantities or cinnamon flavoured foods that may contain unnecessary ingredients like sugar.
Can dogs eat cranberries?
Yes, cranberries are safe in moderation and can provide antioxidants and vitamins, but it is best to avoid sweetened or processed varieties to keep things healthy for your pooch.
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