Caring for Your Dog This Fall 🍂

Here at Lunar Canines, fall is one of our favorite times of year — crisp air, cozy walks, and pups everywhere getting extra snuggly. But the season also brings a few things worth knowing so you and your best friend can enjoy it together, safely and happily. As always, we believe a little patience and kindness go a long way, both with your dog and with yourself as you navigate the small adjustments each season brings.

Foods to Keep Away From Your Dog

Fall get-togethers mean lots of yummy smells floating around the kitchen, and it's easy for a sweet pup to sneak a bite of something they shouldn't. Watch grapes and raisins closely, since even a small amount can seriously affect their kidneys, and chocolate—especially the dark or baking kind—contains theobromine, which dogs can't process the way we can. Sugar-free treats and baked goods often contain xylitol, which can cause a scary quick drop in blood sugar, and macadamia nuts can leave a pup feeling weak or shaky even in small amounts.

The season has its own little traps too. Good news: plain cooked pumpkin is actually a wonderful, gentle addition to your dog's diet in small amounts. Just keep the raw seeds, stems, and whole squash out of paw's reach, since those can upset tummies. And if you're on a fall walk and spot walnuts or acorns scattered under a tree, it's best to steer your dog away — especially if they look old or moldy, as they can cause tremors. A few other everyday foods to keep out of reach: onions, garlic, and chives (common in soups and stews), and corn cobs from your fall cookout, which can cause a blockage if swallowed.

Plants and Yard Hazards to Watch For

Autumn's beautiful scenery comes with a few hidden hazards, and knowing them helps you relax and enjoy your walks with peace of mind. Acorns and oak leaves, so prettily scattered across the yard, can upset your dog's stomach and, in large amounts, affect their kidneys. Chrysanthemums, a favorite for fall porch decor, are unfortunately toxic if nibbled on, and autumn crocus is one to watch, as it can cause more serious issues.

Rainy, damp fall days also bring out mushrooms and fungi, so it's worth a gentle redirect if your curious pup starts sniffing around anything sprouting on a walk. Also, if you keep a compost pile, keep it fenced off or out of reach, since decomposing scraps can grow mold that isn't dog-friendly.

Flea and Tick Prevention Still Matters

It's easy to assume that once the temperature drops, fleas and ticks pack up for the season. But that's not the case! Fleas are cozy little survivors and can thrive indoors no matter what it's like outside, and ticks are actually often more active in fall as they look for one last meal before winter, especially on those mild 35–50°F days.

The kindest thing you can do for your pup is stick with their monthly prevention. Oral, topical, or collar, right through the fall and into winter, unless your vet says otherwise. And after walks, especially through wooded areas or tall grass, a gentle once-over check of their coat (which is likely getting thicker for winter!) is a great habit to build together.

Cold Weather Walking Tips

As the air gets crisper, a few small adjustments can make walks more comfortable for your pup. Cold pavement and de-icing chemicals can be tough on paw pads, so booties or a soothing paw balm can help. Also, a quick wipe-down after walks keeps residue from being licked off later. If your dog has a short coat or runs on the leaner side, a cozy sweater or jacket once it dips below 45°F can make a big difference in how much they enjoy their time outside. And since the days are getting shorter, reflective gear or a light-up leash goes a long way toward keeping evening walks safe.

Above all, let your dog set the pace. Shivering, hesitating, or lifting a paw are all gentle signals that it's time to head home, and a wet, cold pup should be dried off promptly to help them warm back up. If long walks aren't in the cards on the chillier days, shorter and more frequent outings work beautifully too — your dog just wants time with you, however that looks.

Here's to a safe, cozy, tail-wagging fall season. 🐾