Fall-Friendly Foods for Dogs: What They Can (and Can’t) Eat This Holiday Season

Dog with Pumpkin

Fall Foods Dogs Can (and Can't) Enjoy

A guide to sharing the harvest safely with your furry friend.

Pumpkin spice isn’t the only thing in the air this fall. As we gather for holiday meals and cozy nights, it's natural to want to share the bounty with our pets. But while some fall favorites are superfoods for dogs, others can be dangerous.

Here is your cheat sheet for a safe, delicious autumn with your pup.

✅ Fall Foods Dogs Can Enjoy

1. Pumpkin (Plain)

Superfood! Full of fiber and vitamins A & C. Helps digestion. Must be plain (no pie mix).

2. Sweet Potatoes

Cooked, plain, and roasted/boiled. No butter, sugar, or marshmallows.

3. Apples

Perfect crunchy snack. Remove seeds and core first!

4. Green Beans

Low-calorie and filling. Great for dogs watching their weight.

5. Carrots

Crunchy and nutrient-rich. Helps keep teeth clean.

🚫 Fall Foods to Avoid

  • Pumpkin Spice & Holiday Desserts: Often contain nutmeg (toxic) and excess sugar.
  • Onions, Garlic, & Chives: Common in stuffing, but highly toxic to dogs (damages red blood cells).
  • Grapes & Raisins: Can cause kidney failure even in small amounts. Watch out for trail mix!
  • Chocolate: Dark chocolate is especially dangerous. Keep the candy bowl out of reach.
  • Fatty or Spicy Foods: Turkey skin and gravy can trigger pancreatitis.

🎃 Holiday Hosting Tip

If you’re hosting Thanksgiving or a fall get-together, remind guests not to sneak food to your dog under the table. Set aside a special bowl of dog-safe fall treats so your pup doesn’t feel left out.

🍪 DIY Pumpkin Dog Cookies

A safe, simple treat your dog will love!

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup plain pumpkin puree
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 egg
Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix all ingredients together until a dough forms.
  3. Roll out and cut into fun shapes.
  4. Bake for 20–25 minutes. Let cool completely before serving!

Happy Harvesting!

Fall is a season of togetherness—and that includes our furry family members. Sharing safe, dog-friendly foods means your pup can enjoy the holidays right by your side.

Just remember: when in doubt, stick to plain, unseasoned, natural foods.

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