Can Eating Leaves Make Dogs Sick? What Pet Parents Should Know This Fall

Fall brings crisp air, crunchy walks, and colorful leaves, but if you’re a dog parent, you’ve might have noticed your pup trying to munch on those fallen leaves. While it may seem harmless (and sometimes even cute), eating leaves can pose risks for dogs. Understanding why dogs are drawn to leaves and what potential dangers they carry will help you keep your pet safe and healthy this season.

Why Do Dogs Eat Leaves?

Dogs explore the world through their mouths, and leaves can be tempting for a variety of reasons:

• Curiosity – Puppies especially tend to taste-test everything they encounter.
• Texture and Smell – Crunchy, earthy leaves may feel fun or smell interesting.
• Boredom or Stress – Some dogs turn to chewing or nibbling on things like leaves when they’re under-stimulated or adjusting to changes in their environment.
• Instinct – Dogs in the wild often ate plant matter to aid digestion, and some of that behavior remains in our pets today.

A few nibbles here and there usually aren’t cause for panic, but pet parents should know when leaf eating could turn into a problem.

Risks of Dogs Eating Leaves

While leaves themselves aren’t usually toxic, several risks make this habit worth keeping an eye on:

1. Mold and Fungus

Fallen, damp leaves can grow mold or fungi. If eaten, these can upset your dog’s stomach and sometimes lead to vomiting or diarrhea.

2. Toxic Plants

Some tree species, like red maple, yew, and oak (acorns), can be toxic to dogs if ingested. It’s not always easy to identify which leaves are safe, so caution is best.

3. Pesticides or Chemicals

Leaves from treated lawns or public spaces may carry pesticide residue or other chemicals that are harmful to pets.

4. Digestive Blockages

If a dog eats large amounts of leaves, the fibrous material can cause gastrointestinal blockages. This is more common if the leaves are swallowed in big clumps rather than chewed.

5. Parasites and Bacteria

Decomposing organic matter can harbor bacteria or parasites that may upset your dog’s digestion.

What Pet Parents Should Do if Their Dog Eats Leaves

If your dog occasionally chews on a dry, clean leaf, it’s usually not harmful. But if you notice repeated leaf-eating or your dog shows signs of discomfort, it’s likely time to step in. Watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty breathing, or loss of appetite, and contact your veterinarian if you’re concerned.

How to Prevent Leaf-Eating in Dogs

You don’t need to avoid all walks in the fall, but there are a few proactive steps you can take to keep your dog safe and redirect the behavior.

• Keep Walks Engaging – Bring chew toys, enrichment games, or chews on your walk to distract your pup from leaf piles.
• Offer Mental Stimulation at Home – Puzzle feeders, training exercises, or safe chews can reduce boredom-driven nibbling.
• Supervise Outdoor Play – Especially in backyards with lots of fallen leaves or near areas that may be sprayed with chemicals.
• Promote Digestive Health – Supporting your dog’s gut wellness can help them feel more balanced overall and may reduce the urge to snack on things outdoors. Introducing a digestive powder into their diet can provide support for healthy digestion by balancing the gut microbiome.

The Importance of Supporting Your Dog's Digestive Health

A healthy digestive system does more than just process food, it plays a vital role in your dog’s overall wellness. When the gut is balanced, pets are better able to absorb nutrients, maintain normal stool consistency, and feel more comfortable day to day. Seasonal changes, new foods, or even behaviors like nibbling on leaves can sometimes throw digestion off. By supporting your dog’s gut health proactively with supplements, you can help minimize occasional discomfort, discourage them from eating things they shouldn’t, promote firm stools, and keep them feeling their best all year long.

Keeping Dogs Safe This Fall

Leaves are part of the fun of fall, but they aren’t always safe for dogs to eat. While curiosity is normal, repeated leaf-eating can expose your pup to mold, toxins, or digestive issues. By keeping walks engaging, offering healthy alternatives, and supporting your dog’s digestion, you can enjoy autumn adventures together knowing your dog can enjoy the season safely by your side. With just a few simple steps, you can focus less on what your dog shouldn’t eat and more on the fun memories you’re making together.