Easy Nutrition Tips for Your Dog in October

Fall is finally here! With cooler weather, colorful leaves, and tasty seasonal treats, it's the perfect time for you and your dog to enjoy the season.

But did you know autumn can come with some hidden challenges for your furry friend? No worries—we’ve got some simple tips to keep your dog healthy and happy through October!

Plus, we’ll show you how some fresh, seasonal ingredients can do wonders for your dog's health.

Nutritious Fall Diet

Just like we love fall treats, your dog can enjoy some too—just make sure to stick with dog-friendly options! You can add a little seasonal flair to their meals with healthy fall ingredients like pumpkin and apples. Here’s how to do it right.

Pumpkin Power

Pumpkin is a true superfood for dogs! It’s not only delicious but also packed with benefits. Here’s why it’s a great addition to your dog’s diet:

• Digestive Health: The fiber in pumpkin helps with digestion, especially if your pup has an upset stomach or irregular bowel movements.

• Weight Management: Low in calories and high in fiber, pumpkin is a filling, healthy treat for dogs on a diet.

• Rich in Nutrients: Packed with vitamins like A and potassium, pumpkin boosts your dog’s overall health.

• Hydration: With its high water content, pumpkin helps keep your dog hydrated.

• Urinary Health: All that water in pumpkin also supports your dog's bladder health, helping prevent urinary issues.

Just make sure to use plain, canned pumpkin (not the pie filling!) and mix small amounts into your dog’s food or serve it as a treat.

Apple Treats

Crisp, sweet, and healthy—apples are another great snack for your dog. Slice them up and offer as a crunchy treat, but remember to remove the seeds and core, which aren’t safe for dogs. Here’s why apples are a win:

• Low-Calorie Snack: Perfect for dogs who need a light, healthy treat.

• Fiber-Rich: Apples can help keep your dog’s digestion on track.

• Vitamins & Antioxidants: Loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, apples support your dog’s immune system.

• Oral Health: The natural crunch helps clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath.

Watch Out for Outdoor Snacks

Fall means lots of leaves, sticks, and acorns on the ground, which might look like toys to your dog. But be careful—these can upset their stomach or be dangerous if swallowed. Keep an eye on your dog during walks to make sure they’re not munching on anything harmful.

Halloween Safety

Halloween is a blast, but all that candy is not for dogs! Chocolate, raisins, and anything with xylitol (found in sugar-free candy) are toxic to dogs, so keep those sweet treats out of reach. Also, watch out for any decorations your dog might mistake for a chew toy!

Fresh Water, Even in Fall

Even though it’s cooler in fall, your dog still needs plenty of water. Make sure their water bowl is always full, and offer water after walks or outdoor playtime. Hydration is key to keeping them healthy year-round.

Keep Their Diet Balanced

While it’s fun to add fresh ingredients to your dog’s meals, don’t forget about maintaining a balanced diet. Make sure they’re getting the right amounts of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your vet for advice.

Fresh Air & Exercise

Fall’s cooler weather makes it the perfect time to get outside with your pup! Go for extra walks or have some outdoor playtime to burn off those tasty treats. The fresh air and exercise will do wonders for both of you. Just remember to check your dog for ticks and fleas, which can still be around during the fall. And as always, keep your dog safe with a comfy harness!

Enjoy the Season Together

With these tips, you and your dog can make the most of the harvest season. Whether you’re enjoying Halloween fun, visiting pumpkin patches, or snuggling at home, fall has so much to offer. Just be mindful of what your dog eats, keep portions in check, and have a blast!

For more fun fall ideas and tips, head over to the Joyride Blog. And don’t forget to check out our reviews to see how much fun your dog can have with a Joyride harness!