5 Autumn Treats Your Dog Will Love (And 3 to Avoid!)

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, autumn is a season many of us look forward to. Comfort food, cosy evenings, and crunchy walks through fallen leaves make this time of year extra special. But did you know your dog can share in some of the joys of autumn too?

While many seasonal ingredients are safe and healthy for dogs, there are others that should be avoided at all costs. Knowing the difference can help you give your dog tasty autumn treats without putting their health at risk.

In this guide, we’ll cover five autumn-inspired foods that are both safe and beneficial for your dog—plus three that should stay firmly off the menu.

Carrots are a classic dog-friendly snack that shine in autumn. Crunchy, sweet, and low in calories, they’re perfect for dogs of all ages. Rich in beta-carotene, carrots support eye health, and their crunch can help scrape away plaque and keep teeth healthier.

How to serve it:

• Give raw carrot sticks as a healthy chew.

• Steam or boil for older dogs with sensitive teeth.

• Grate a little carrot over their dinner for a nutritional boost.

💡 Pro tip: Pop a raw carrot in the freezer for teething puppies—it doubles as a natural, soothing chew.

An apple a day may keep the vet away—at least when it comes to supporting your dog’s immune system. Apples are rich in fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants that help protect cells and boost digestive health.

How to serve it:

• Slice thin wedges and offer them as a refreshing snack.

• Freeze apple slices for a crunchy, cooling treat after a long autumn walk.

• Mash apple with pumpkin and oats for a simple homemade dog biscuit.

⚠️ Always remove the seeds and core. Apple seeds contain cyanide compounds that are toxic to dogs.

Sweet potato is a nutritional powerhouse that’s safe, delicious, and satisfying. It’s high in fibre, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and manganese—making it an excellent slow-release carbohydrate for energetic dogs.

How to serve it:

• Slice and bake into chewy sweet potato “chips”.

• Mash into your dog’s dinner for a hearty autumn meal.

• Combine with oats and peanut butter to make DIY autumn dog treats.

🍠 Many natural dog chews use dried sweet potato for good reason—it’s tasty, long-lasting, and gut-friendly.

On a chilly autumn morning, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of porridge. Dogs can enjoy oats too—provided they’re served plain and cooked with water (not milk). Oats are a great source of soluble fibre, which can help regulate digestion and support heart health.

How to serve it:

• Cook plain porridge oats with water and allow to cool before serving.

• Stir in a spoonful of pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist.

• Add blueberries or chopped apple for an antioxidant boost.

🥣 Keep it simple: avoid adding sugar, honey, or flavourings like cinnamon.

Not all autumn foods are safe for your pup. Some seasonal staples can be harmful—even deadly—so it’s important to know what to keep out of reach.

A handful of raisins may seem harmless, but they’re one of the most toxic foods for dogs. Found in fruit cakes, trail mixes, and seasonal bakes, both grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs.

Even small amounts may be dangerous, and the effects vary from dog to dog—so it’s safest to avoid them entirely.

👉 If your dog accidentally eats grapes or raisins, contact your vet immediately.

Halloween and Bonfire Night often mean chocolate is everywhere. Unfortunately, it contains theobromine, a compound that dogs cannot metabolise. This can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and in severe cases, death.

Dark chocolate contains the highest levels of theobromine, but milk and white chocolate are unsafe too.

🚫 All chocolate should be kept far away from curious paws and noses.

Onions, garlic, and related vegetables (like leeks and chives) are common in autumn recipes such as soups, roasts, and stews. But for dogs, they’re highly toxic and can damage red blood cells, leading to anaemia. Small amounts of garlic can be beneficial for dogs but always seek advice on the quantity suitable to give your dog and if in any doubt it is better to avoid giving to your dog.

Symptoms of onion or garlic poisoning may not show immediately but can include lethargy, weakness, and reduced appetite.

⚠️ Even small amounts of onion or garlic powder in gravies or sauces can be harmful.

Autumn isn’t just about treats—changing seasons bring new challenges for your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. Here are some extra tips to keep your pup happy and healthy this season:

• Joint Care: Cooler, damp weather can make stiff joints worse, especially in senior dogs. Supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin can help support mobility.

• Skin & Coat: Dry indoor heating and damp weather can irritate the skin. Omega-rich supplements support a healthy coat and reduce seasonal itchiness.

• Digestive Health: New treats can upset sensitive tummies. Introduce seasonal snacks slowly and consider a probiotic to maintain gut balance.

• Safety on Walks: With shorter days, invest in reflective gear for your dog’s collar or harness. Wet leaves can also be slippery—take care on paths.

• Bonfire Night Prep: Loud bangs can be stressful for dogs. Create a calm space at home with blankets, toys, and gentle reassurance.

Autumn is a season of warmth, cosiness, and comforting flavours. With the right choices, your dog can enjoy the season just as much as you do. Pumpkin, sweet potatoes, apples, carrots, and oats all make safe, nutritious snacks for your furry friend. But always steer clear of toxic foods like grapes, chocolate, onions, and garlic.

At Buddy & Lola, we believe every season is a chance to support your dog’s health with natural nutrition, gentle supplements, and plenty of love. Whether it’s a spoonful of pumpkin in their dinner or a crunchy carrot after a walk, little seasonal touches can make a big difference.

So, as you settle in with your favourite autumn treats, don’t forget to share the season safely with your dog—they’ll thank you with wagging tails and happy smiles.