Autumn dog-walking dangers: the seasonal hazards every owner should know

Published: September 9, 2026 at 11:58 AM

From acorns and conkers to poisonous mushrooms, here’s what dog owners need to watch out for on autumn walks

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Autumn is a wonderful time to head out with your four-legged friend, but those colourful woodland walks can come with some hidden dangers.

Pet insurance experts at our partner Quotezone are urging dog owners to take extra care this October, as seasonal hazards including acorns, conkers and wild mushrooms can pose a serious risk to curious pets.

While a crisp autumn stroll through the woods or countryside can be one of the pleasures of the season, many owners may not realise that some of the things their dogs encounter along the way can be harmful if eaten.

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In fact, research from our partner Quotezone found that almost half of dog owners (49%) did not know that acorns are poisonous to dogs.

Acorns generally fall from oak trees during September and October, although in some parts of the UK they can continue to drop into November and December. Green, unripe acorns are particularly hazardous because they contain higher levels of toxins than their mature brown counterparts.

Eating acorns can cause stomach upsets and may even lead to internal blockages. In rare cases, they have been linked to liver and kidney failure, so it pays to keep a close eye on your dog during autumn walks.*

Beware of conkers, too

Acorns aren’t the only seasonal hazard to look out for.

Conkers, which fall from horse chestnut trees in late September and October, can also cause serious problems if swallowed. They can cause blockages and contain a toxin called aesculin, which is found throughout the tree’s bark and leaves.

Their size and spiky shells also make conkers a significant choking hazard for dogs.**

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Mushrooms can be deadly

There are dangers lurking closer to the ground, too.

Some wild mushrooms found in UK parks and woodlands can be deadly to dogs if eaten. These include Fool’s Funnel, Death Cap and Funeral Bell mushrooms.

Mushroom poisoning can cause symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhoea to seizures and loss of coordination. So if your dog has a habit of investigating – or eating – everything they find on a walk, it’s particularly important to keep them away from mushrooms.***

If you think your dog has eaten an acorn, conker or wild mushroom, contact your vet immediately.

Helen Rolph, pet insurance expert at our partner Quotezone, said: “Woodland walks in the autumn can be very picturesque, but they can also present hidden hazards for dogs such as acorns, conkers and certain wild mushrooms, which can cause serious illness or even be fatal if ingested.

“A wholesome autumnal walk could quickly turn sour, so we’re urging all dog owners to keep a close eye on their pets during seasonal strolls and to seek veterinary advice immediately if they suspect their dog has eaten anything they shouldn’t.

“It’s also worth taking out a pet insurance policy to protect you and your pets against situations like this which could prove costly – most policies now include a 24/7 vet helpline for emergencies.”

Our partner Quotezone’s tips for safer autumn walks

  1. Change your route

Your usual dog-walking route might be convenient, but consider avoiding areas particularly dense with oak and horse chestnut trees for the next few weeks.

  1. Keep them close

Keep a particularly close eye on your dog when you’re out and about. In areas where there may be hazards, keep them on a lead and watch out for acorns, conkers and mushrooms that you can steer them away from.

  1. Distract them

Take one of your dog’s favourite toys along as a distraction, and never encourage them to play with acorns or conkers.

  1. Practise emergency commands

Commands such as ‘leave it’ and ‘drop it’ can be particularly useful in an emergency. Practise them regularly so your dog can respond quickly if they pick up something they shouldn’t.

  1. Do your homework

Autumn walks can bring a variety of hazards, so it’s worth finding out what dangers may be present in your local area. And don’t just concentrate on woodland – poisonous items can also be washed up on beaches or found along the edges of rivers.

Our partner Quotezone helps millions of people every year compare pet insurance and find savings, including pet insurance for pre-existing conditions and multiple pet insurance for all the family.

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References

Survey: Our partner Quotezone’s findings are based on a randomised survey of 1,000 respondents across the UK during October 2024, which represents a margin of error of approximately 5% at a 95% confidence level.

This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.

Radiotimes.com is published by Immediate Media Company London Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Immediate Media Company Limited. Immediate Media Company London Limited is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Seopa Ltd (trading as Quotezone) (FRN: 313860).

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The insurance quote system is independently owned and operated by Seopa Ltd. Radtiotimes.com may receive a commission for any policies purchased, at no cost to you.

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