7 Fall Foods That Aren’t Safe for Your Pup

Fall brings cozy meals and plenty of seasonal snacks.

While some autumn foods are perfectly fine for dogs, others can cause anything from an upset stomach to a serious health emergency.

Here are seven fall favorites to keep well away from your pup.

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1. Apple Seeds and Cores

A few slices of plain apple can make a tasty dog-friendly snack, but the seeds and core should be removed first. 

Apple seeds contain compounds that can release cyanide when chewed and digested in large enough quantities.

The tough core can also be a choking or intestinal blockage hazard.

2. Grapes and Raisins

Fall is a popular time for baking, which makes it especially important to watch out for grapes and raisins. 

Both can cause kidney failure in dogs, and there isn't a reliable way to predict how much might make a particular dog sick.

Keep raisin-filled breads, cookies, and trail mixes out of reach. If your dog eats grapes or raisins, contact your vet right away.

3. Chocolate

Halloween candy and fall baking can put chocolate within easy reach of curious pups. 

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs.

Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are particularly concerning because they contain higher concentrations.

Keep candy bowls well out of paw's reach, and remember that dogs can be surprisingly determined when there's chocolate involved.

4. Onions and Garlic

Hearty fall soups, stews, gravies, and stuffing often contain onions or garlic.

These ingredients can damage a dog's red blood cells and potentially cause anemia.

5. Nutmeg

That pumpkin spice latte might smell like fall, but nutmeg isn't something to share with your pup. 

Large amounts of nutmeg can cause neurological problems, including disorientation and seizures.

6. Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts can sometimes turn up in fall cookies, cakes, and snack mixes.

They're toxic to dogs and can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and difficulty walking.

Check ingredient lists before giving your dog any baked treats.

7. Alcohol

Fall celebrations can mean more drinks around the house, from beer at a football gathering to cocktails at a dinner party.

Alcohol is toxic to dogs, even in relatively small amounts.

Keep drinks securely out of reach and clean up spills quickly. Don't let your pup sample alcoholic beverages, no matter how interested they seem.