Autumn is a season that always feels a little enchanted. Streaks of breath drift in the cool air, mushrooms hide beneath leaves, and the scent of earth is everywhere. Yet what looks poetic to us can hold hidden risks for our dogs. This is the time of year to nourish carefully, to feed with intention, and to walk with watchful eyes.

Spot the unseen risks

One of the most common autumn hazards is the wild mushroom. Many species are harmless, but some, like the death cap and fly agaric, are highly toxic to dogs. Because it is almost impossible to tell the difference, the safest approach is to treat every mushroom as suspect. Keep an eye out on woodland paths, damp lawns, and even urban verges.

Seasonal allergies can also flare. Mould spores, leaf litter, and lingering pollen may irritate skin or trigger sneezing fits. And with early chills setting in, older dogs or those with joint issues may feel stiffness creep back. Being alert to these shifts helps you act before small irritations become bigger problems.

(For detailed guidance, the Guide Dogs site provide seasonal hazard advice.)

Nourish for strength and calm

Food can be a quiet form of protection. Gentle, whole-food meals like Nature’s Harvest offer natural support for digestion and immunity, which often need a little extra care in colder months. Ingredients chosen for easy absorption, such as brown rice and carefully balanced proteins, mean your dog gets warmth and steadiness without strain on the gut.

Think of it as wrapping them in a coat from the inside out. A steady, nourishing diet makes it easier for your dog to resist the sudden challenges autumn brings.

Make Autumn walks mindful

Here’s something to try: next time you walk, take a quick photo of the ground ahead. Can you spot the risks? A scattered mushroom, a discarded conker, a patch of mouldy leaves. Sharing these pictures with fellow owners can be a simple way to build awareness, and even spark conversations about how to stay safe.

It is easy to get swept up in the beauty of turning leaves. Slowing down, and scanning the ground every so often, helps you notice both the wonder and the warning signs.

A gentle reminder

Autumn carries its share of hidden challenges, yet it can also be a time of quiet wellbeing. With thoughtful feeding, watchful walks, and small acts of care, you give your dog the comfort and safety they need as the air turns crisp and the nights draw in.