Can Dogs Eat Chestnuts?
Yes, dogs can eat chestnuts. They’re safe, and for some dogs, chestnuts can be a tasty treat. However, they don’t have any significant health benefits, so there’s no real reason to give them to your dog regularly. But if you’re enjoying some chestnuts and want to share a little with your dog, go ahead—it’s perfectly fine.
Let’s talk about the chestnuts your dog might find while exploring outside. Not all chestnuts are safe for dogs, and some aren’t even edible for us.
Horse chestnuts and buckeyes, which are common in the U.S., are toxic and should never be eaten by dogs or people. It’s important not to let your dog play with or chew on them, even with safe chestnuts, like sweet chestnuts. The shells can be sharp and might cut their gums or mouth, and if swallowed, they could hurt their intestines.
Horse chestnuts are not safe for dogs, according to ASPCA
Horse chestnuts are those big, round nuts you might see in parks or on streets in the fall. They come from the horse chestnut tree, which is common in Europe and some parts of North America. They look shiny and brown, with a tough shell that’s usually inside a spiky green husk.
Even though they might look like the chestnuts we eat, horse chestnuts are toxic to dogs if they eat too many. According to ASPCA, they cause vomiting and diarrhea but can also lead to convulsions and coma. If your dog ate a lot of horse chestnuts and you notice some of these symptoms, get them to the emergency vet ASAP!
If you see these nuts on the ground, try to keep your dog from picking them up or playing with them because they can also be a choking hazard.
Chestnuts that are safe for dogs to eat
American chestnuts and sweet chestnuts are the types that are safe for dogs to eat. You’d find these chestnuts roasted around the holidays or in grocery stores. They’re smaller than horse chestnuts and have a sweeter, softer texture when cooked. If you want to share some with your dog, remove the tough outer shell and any hard inner skin. The shell can be a choking hazard and isn’t something your dog should chew on.
Once you’ve peeled the chestnuts, you can either roast or boil them until they’re soft. Just keep in mind that plain, cooked chestnuts are best—skip the added salt, butter, or seasonings, as these can upset your dog’s stomach.
Only cooked or roasted chestnuts are safe for dogs
Dogs can only eat cooked or roasted chestnuts—raw chestnuts can be hard for them to digest and might lead to an upset stomach. There’s also a risk of raw chestnuts being moldy, and then there’s always a risk of choking.
Now, chestnuts aren’t exactly your go-to dog treat, but if your dog is giving you those big, begging eyes while you’re snacking, it’s nice to know they’re safe to share. It’s the same thing as pecan nuts or other types of snacks we like; they are not meant for dogs, and they are also rich in fat!
Love, life, and fur forever!
FAQs
These are the most popular questions. If you have more, then please leave a comment, and I’ll be happy to answer!
Can dogs eat Korean chestnuts?
Yes, you can give your dog Korean chestnuts as long as they’re cooked and you’ve removed the shells. They’re similar to American and sweet chestnuts and are safe for dogs when prepared right. Just make sure they’re plain, with no added salt or seasonings.
Can dogs eat Italian chestnuts?
Absolutely, you can share Italian chestnuts with your dog, but only if they’re cooked and the shells are off. Like other chestnuts, keep them plain—no butter, no salt. A small piece can be a nice treat if your dog is curious.
Can dogs eat sweet chestnuts?
Yes, you can give your dog sweet chestnuts. They’re safe as long as they’re cooked and the shells are removed.