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A gray-bearded man in a knit cap and suspenders picks apples from a tree while a red Golden Retriever sniffs fallen apples. 11 / 38

Roy Was Picking Apples From the Tree. Copper Was Inspecting the Ones on the Ground.

AI imagegolden retrieverapple orchardautumn

The old orchard is heavy with fruit, branches drooping under clusters of shiny red apples. Roy, in a gray knit cap, blue plaid flannel, and brown suspenders, kneels in the grass and stretches one hand up to pluck an apple from a low branch. He gazes up thoughtfully, his gray beard catching the soft autumn light. Down at ground level, Copper has his nose buried among the windfalls, sniffing apple after apple with total dedication, his feathery red ears brushing the grass. A weathered shed, a few yellowing leaves, and dozens of fallen apples scattered across the lawn complete the harvest scene.

Apples can be a crunchy treat for dogs when served the right way. Remove the core and seeds first, since seeds contain compounds that can release cyanide when chewed and the core can be a choking hazard. Plain slices in moderation are best. In orchards and yards, fallen apples bring other concerns: they can ferment as they rot, and a dog that gorges on them may end up with an upset stomach or worse. Goldens, known for their appetite, may happily munch windfalls if allowed, so keep an eye on your dog and rake up dropped fruit regularly. Bees and wasps also love rotting fruit, so watch for stings.

The basket will be full soon, and pie or applesauce is surely in the plans. Copper, meanwhile, is conducting his own careful taste test, one sniff at a time.

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