AUTUMN SAFETY TIPS EVERY DOG OWNER SHOULD KNOW

A season full of colour and adventure, and while Autumn brings hidden risks for dogs, it also offers plenty of joy. From woodland walks and falling leaves to splashing through puddles, rolling in the mud and curling up in the warmth of home, this time of year is packed with experiences dogs love. The cooler weather and rich seasonal scents make every walk more exciting, but it’s important for owners to stay aware of potential hazards so both you and your dog can enjoy the season safely.

To help you make the most of autumn with your dog, ProDog’s canine nutritionist and holistic care advocate, Alison Frost, shares her top tips for keeping tails wagging and paws safe. Let’s take a look at what to watch out for on those autumnal walks.

CONKERS

It’s not just leaves that fall in autumn. It’s also a time for conkers to make an appearance on the ground. Many dog owners ask are conkers poisonous to dogs? The short answer is yes, they can be. Conkers, or horse chestnuts, contain a chemical called aesculin which is toxic to dogs.

Most dogs won’t eat conkers because of their bitter taste, but that doesn’t make them safe. Throwing or kicking them during a walk can turn them into tempting toys, increasing the risk of your dog picking one up.

The real danger comes in two forms: poisoning and choking. Eating enough conkers to cause toxicity is rare, but even a single one can be hazardous if swallowed whole. Their hard, round shape makes them difficult to digest, and they can block the stomach or intestines, leading to a medical emergency.

So, while conkers may look like harmless fun on autumn walks, it’s best to keep them out of your dog’s reach altogether.

ACORNS

You might also be asking, are acorns poisonous to dogs? The answer is yes. Acorns contain tannins, which can upset your dog’s stomach and, in larger amounts, cause more serious health issues such as liver or kidney damage. Signs of acorn poisoning can include your dog being sick, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, lethargy or loss of appetite.

Like conkers, acorns are also a choking risk. Their size and hardness make them dangerous if swallowed, especially for smaller breeds. It’s advisable to keep them on the lead in areas where oak trees are common.

While conkers and acorns are part of the season’s natural scenery, they’re best admired from a distance to keep your dog safe.

FALLEN FRUITS AND BERRIES

Not all autumn berries are as innocent as they look. As the season unfolds and trees, bushes and hedgerows begin to shed their fruit, it can feel like a natural playground for curious dogs. Brightly coloured berries and fallen fruit often catch a dog’s eye (and nose), but many of these seasonal treats can hide some very real dangers.

Certain plants are particularly toxic. Deadly Nightshade, with its dark, glossy berries, can cause severe illness if ingested. Cuckoo Pint, also known as Lords-and-Ladies, produces red berries that are especially tempting to dogs but highly poisonous. Mistletoe, often associated with festive decorations later in the year, can also be toxic when encountered outdoors. All three are most commonly found in woodland or shaded areas, meaning even a relaxed countryside walk can present hidden hazards.

It isn’t just wild plants that are a concern. Fallen fruit from apple, pear, or plum trees can create problems once it begins to decay. As fruit ferments, it produces alcohol, and ingestion can lead to alcohol poisoning in dogs. Mouldy fruit can cause stomach upsets, vomiting, diarrhoea, or more serious health issues depending on the amount consumed. Even fruits that are safe when fresh can become risky once they start to rot.

The challenge for pet owners is that dogs explore the world with their mouths. A quick sniff and a bite can happen in seconds, especially when something looks unusual or smells sweet. That’s why vigilance on walks is so important during autumn. Where possible, keep your dog on a lead in areas where berries are plentiful, and clear fallen fruit promptly if you have trees in your garden.

PLANTS AND BULBS

Cultivated plants and bulbs such as amaryllis, hydrangea, crocus, daffodils and tulips can be harmful to dogs. If dug up and eaten, they may cause poisoning as well as choking or intestinal blockages.

WILD MUSHROOMS

While some wild fungi are edible, highly nutritious and even beneficial for the immune system [1], telling the difference between safe and poisonous varieties can be extremely difficult. If your dog eats an unidentified fungus, it could lead to illness ranging from mild stomach upset to serious health problems. If you see your dog ingesting a wild mushroom, collect a sample to help identify the species, or take it with you to your vet for advice.

If you suspect your dog has eaten something toxic, or they begin showing unusual symptoms, contact your vet straight away. Prompt action and accurate information can make all the difference in treatment.

Symptoms of poisoning in dogs may include:

• Dog vomiting and diarrhea
• Excessive drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Weakness or lethargy
• Tremors or seizures (in severe cases)

What to do if you’re concerned:

Take a photo and, if possible, collect a sample of the plant, fruit, mushroom or foliage your dog has eaten.
Monitor them closely for 48 hours, paying attention to energy levels, toilet habits, general health and alertness.
Contact your vet immediately if you are worried.
If your dog has swallowed something that could cause a blockage, such as a conker or bulb, seek veterinary help promptly.

Autumn can be magical, but part of keeping it that way is knowing which seasonal sights and smells are safe and which ones to avoid.

SEASONAL CANINE ILLNESS (SCI)

Seasonal Canine Illness (SCI) is a very rare, but serious condition that occurs mainly between August and November, with a peak in September. It was first identified in 2010 and has been linked to dogs that have recently been walked in woodland areas. While the exact cause remains unknown, one of the strongest theories involves harvest mites, which are often found on dogs affected by the illness. Other potential causes such as fungal toxins or chemical exposure have also been considered, but none have been proven.

When SCI was first reported in 2010, fatality rates were estimated to be around 20 percent of those dogs diagnosed. By 2012, with quicker recognition and improved treatment, this had dropped to fewer than 2 percent. Symptoms usually appear within 72 hours of a woodland walk and can include vomiting, diarrhoea, tiredness, loss of appetite and abdominal pain. If your dog shows any of these signs after an autumn walk, it is important to contact a vet immediately.

ALABAMA ROT

Another concern for dog owners in autumn is Alabama Rot, again very rare, but a serious disease that has been reported in the UK since 2012. Cases are most common between November and May, when damp and muddy conditions are at their peak. The illness damages blood vessels in the skin and kidneys, leading to sores, lethargy, vomiting and, in severe cases, kidney failure. Although Alabama Rot is very rare, it is a good idea to wash your dog’s legs, paws and underside after muddy walks and to contact a vet immediately if you notice unexplained skin lesions or sudden signs of illness.

FIREWORKS & BONFIRE NIGHT

Autumn celebrations such as Bonfire Night and seasonal firework displays are part of the yearly tradition, but for many dogs they can be a source of real stress. This stress extends to us as dog owners  too, as we grow concerned for their well-being. Loud, unpredictable noises may cause some dogs to panic and even bolt during walks. To help keep your dog calm, it is best to walk them during daylight hours and make their home environment as safe and secure as possible when fireworks are expected. For some dogs, long-lasting chews can provide a welcome distraction and promote more positive emotional states [2]. Others may not want to eat when anxious, in which case soothing music [3], gentle massage, or simply the comfort of their favourite human can make all the difference.

Our handy guide, written by ProDog’s Canine behaviourist, details how to support a dog nervous of fireworks.

Autumn is a season full of colour, adventure and new experiences for dogs and their owners. By being aware of the potential hazards and taking a few simple precautions, you can protect your dog’s health while still letting them enjoy everything the season has to offer. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and you’ll ensure that this autumn is one of safety, happiness and unforgettable moments with your canine companion.