5 Fall Foods Your Dog Will Love

Feeding your dog fresh food has so many benefits. Not only does it provide essential vitamins and nutrients, but it also supports their overall health, from a shiny coat to a strong immune system. When we think about fall, we imagine pumpkins, apples, and squash—but how do these delicious ingredients help improve your dog’s diet?

Each of these fall foods is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can boost your dog's digestive system, skin, and overall well-being. Plus, incorporating fresh ingredients into their meals adds variety and excitement to their usual kibble, making every mealtime a moment to look forward to!

Let’s dive into five seasonal ingredients that are great for your dog's diet this time of year.

Pumpkin is a fall favorite, not just for humans but also for dogs! Packed with beta-carotene, potassium, and vitamin A, pumpkin helps promote good vision and a strong immune system. Plus, its high fiber content is great for digestive health, keeping things moving smoothly—perfect for dogs who might have an upset stomach or constipation.

Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs

Pumpkin is one of those miracle ingredients that can be served cooked, pureed, or even canned (just make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree without added preservatives). The antioxidants in pumpkin help boost your dog's immune system, while its fiber supports digestive health. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, pumpkin acts as a natural remedy for both diarrhea and constipation.

How Much Pumpkin Should you Feed your Dog

A small dog can enjoy a tablespoon of cooked or pureed pumpkin mixed into their meals, while a larger dog can handle up to a quarter cup. This makes pumpkin an easy topper to sprinkle over their kibble, ensuring your dog gets that extra nutritional boost.

Crisp, sweet, and full of fiber—apples are another excellent fall food for your dog. Not only are they packed with vitamins A and C, but they’re also a low-calorie treat that can help clean your dog’s teeth as they crunch through them.

Benefits of Apples for Dogs

Apples are loaded with antioxidants that help protect your dog’s cells from damage. Vitamin A promotes eye health, while vitamin C supports a strong immune system. They're also rich in fiber, which aids in digestion.

How to Serve Apples to your Dog

Make sure to remove the core and seeds, as they contain cyanide, which is toxic to dogs. You can slice apples into bite-sized pieces or even puree them into applesauce. A couple of apple slices make a great snack or a crunchy addition to their meal.

Squash is a staple in home cooking for dogs during the fall season. Its mild flavor and high nutritional value make it perfect for blending with other veggies or proteins. It’s a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.

Benefits of Squash for Dogs

Squash is fantastic for digestive health and provides essential nutrients like vitamin A and potassium, which support muscle function and a strong heart. Like pumpkin, it’s also great for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.

How to Serve Squash to your Dog

Cook the squash until it’s soft, then remove the skin and seeds. You can mash it and serve it as a topper or mix it into your dog’s meals. Squash can also be paired with proteins like chicken or turkey for a complete and balanced meal.

Turkey is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle. It’s also rich in B-vitamins and selenium, which help support a healthy immune system. Lean proteins like turkey are easier to digest and are less likely to upset your dog's stomach.

Benefits of Turkey for your Dog

Turkey isn’t just for Thanksgiving—it’s a lean protein that can be enjoyed by your dog throughout the fall season. After Thanksgiving, turkey often goes on sale, making it a budget-friendly option for home-cooked meals for your dog.

How to Serve Turkey to your Dog

Always cook turkey without seasoning and remove the skin and bones, as turkey bones can splinter and cause a choking hazard. Serve turkey as part of your dog’s meal or mix it with veggies like zucchini or squash for a balanced, nutrient-rich meal.

Zucchini is a low-calorie veggie that dogs go crazy for, and it’s perfect for adding variety to their diet. It’s packed with fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making it a healthy, hydrating snack for your dog.

Benefits of Zucchini for your Dog

This low-calorie veggie makes it great for dogs who need to watch their weight. It’s full of antioxidants and fiber that support digestive health, and it’s also a great hydrating snack for the fall months.

How to Serve Zucchini to your Dog

You can serve zucchini cooked or raw, but make sure to slice it into small pieces. Try adding it to your dog’s regular meals or serving it as a healthy snack between meals.

For more insights and tips on feeding your dog fresh, home-cooked meals, explore these blog posts: