What Fall Foods Can My Dog Eat, and Which Should They Stay Away From? 13 Life-Saving Tips

1. Pumpkin – Yes!

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Pumpkin is a fantastic fall treat for your dog! It’s full of fiber and can help with digestion. Just make sure to serve plain, cooked pumpkin with no added spices, sugar, or salt. Canned pumpkin (not pie filling!) is perfect for your pup’s diet.

2. Apples – Yes, but Remove the Seeds

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Apples are a healthy snack for dogs, packed with fiber and vitamins A and C. However, make sure to remove the seeds and core, as apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be toxic in large quantities.

3. Sweet Potatoes – Yes!

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Cooked sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and fiber for your dog. They’re a wonderful, nutritious fall treat when served plain and cooked, either mashed or cubed. Avoid feeding them raw, as they can be hard to digest.

4. Turkey – Yes, but with Caution

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Plain, cooked turkey without seasoning, skin, or bones is safe for dogs and can be a great protein source. However, avoid giving them turkey skin, fat, or bones, as these can cause digestive upset or pose a choking hazard.

5. Cranberries – Yes, in Moderation

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Cranberries can be a healthy snack for dogs in small amounts. They are full of antioxidants and can support urinary health. However, avoid cranberry sauce or dried cranberries that contain added sugars, as these aren’t healthy for dogs.

6. Mashed Potatoes – No

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While plain cooked potatoes are safe, mashed potatoes usually contain butter, milk, and sometimes garlic or onions—all of which are bad for dogs. These ingredients can cause upset stomachs or even be toxic to your pet.

7. Pecan Pie – No

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Pecans and other nuts can be harmful to dogs. Pecans contain toxins like juglone, which can cause stomach upset, and pies often contain sugars, spices, and potentially toxic ingredients like chocolate or nutmeg. Best to keep pecan pie out of your dog’s reach.

8. Carrots – Yes!

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Carrots are a crunchy and healthy snack for dogs, whether raw or cooked. They’re full of fiber and vitamins and can even help clean your dog’s teeth when given raw. They make a great fall treat!

9. Stuffing – No

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Stuffing often contains onions, garlic, and spices that are toxic to dogs. It’s also high in fat and sodium, which can lead to digestive problems. Skip the stuffing for your dog’s dinner plate to keep them healthy and safe.

10. Green Beans – Yes!

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Green beans are a low-calorie snack packed with vitamins and fiber, and they’re safe for dogs when served plain. Avoid green beans that have been cooked in oils, butter, or with added spices, which can cause stomach upset.

11. Grapes and Raisins – No

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Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts. Be sure to keep them out of reach, especially in holiday treats like fruitcake or fall charcuterie boards.

12. Butternut Squash – Yes!

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Butternut squash is another safe fall veggie for dogs when cooked plain. It’s full of fiber and vitamins that can boost your dog’s health. Just be sure to remove the seeds and skin before serving.

13. Nutmeg – No

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Nutmeg is a common fall spice, but it’s dangerous for dogs. It contains a compound called myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, and even seizures if ingested. Keep anything containing nutmeg far away from your furry friend.

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