Collecting chestnuts in autumn is a popular activity for the whole family. But what if the dog is there too?
Now you’re wondering, «Are dogs even allowed to eat chestnuts?»
Whether your dog can help collect chestnuts, which chestnuts are involved, what chestnuts actually are and whether your dog can eat them – you will find out all this in this article!
In a nutshell: Can my dog eat chestnuts?
Yes, dogs can eat chestnuts. Boiled and peeled chestnuts are not harmful to dogs. They are low in fat and contain plenty of B vitamins. However, chestnuts are not suitable for your dog’s daily consumption and are not a main meal.
Chestnuts are also called chestnuts, edible or sweet chestnuts. Unlike the poisonous horse chestnut, they pose no danger to dogs.
Which chestnuts can dogs eat?
We want to clarify this question right at the beginning, because there are some important differences between the different chestnuts!
Buckeye:
This is the kind of chestnut that you will find on your autumn walk. These may be suitable for handicrafts and decoration, but they are not edible!
horse chestnuts are inedible and even poisonous for dogs! In addition, swallowing the chestnut often threatens an intestinal obstruction.
chestnut:
Also Chestnuts, chestnuts or sweet chestnuts called. This type of chestnut is suitable for both human and canine consumption. They shouldn’t end up in a dog’s stomach on a regular basis, but they can be fed every now and then without hesitation.
Are chestnuts healthy for dogs?
Yes, the chestnut is also healthy for dogs in moderation!
It is high in protein and low in fat and calories. Chestnuts provide quick energy, lots of roughage and strengthen the nerves.
Your dog will also benefit from these ingredients:
- magnesium
- phosphorus
- sulfur
- manganese
- calcium
- potassium
- copper
- iron
Danger:
There are toxins in the shell and inside of horse chestnuts, which in large quantities are harmful to dogs. So never let your dog play with fallen chestnuts! Even small amounts of glycoside and saponin can lead to digestive problems.
What are chestnuts?
Chestnuts are actually nuts. Exactly where they came from and how they got here is still unclear to this day.
The chestnut probably made its way to Europe from Asia.
Today chestnuts are grown in some areas of Germany, Turkey, Greece, France, southern England and Hungary.
Good to know:
Compared to other nuts, chestnuts are much easier to digest and contain less fat. Therefore, they are a valuable source of nutrients for your dog when fed occasionally.
How many chestnuts can my dog eat?
Although chestnuts are a healthy snack for your four-legged friend, they do not belong in the bowl regularly.
Large amounts of chestnuts can cause symptoms of poisoning in dogs.
So only occasionally feed your dog one or two chestnuts, depending on body weight and size.
How can I feed my dog chestnuts?
You may only feed chestnuts that have been peeled and cooked.
It is also important that the chestnuts are fully ripe. Unripe chestnuts contain solanine, which can cause nausea and vomiting in dogs.
Good to know:
You can also use the leaves of the sweet chestnut. Dried and poured with hot water, they make a delicious and healing tea for you and your dog! You can simply mix the healthy brew for your four-legged friend with his food.
Chestnut as a remedy?
Chestnuts are also good for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
If your dog often has to deal with acidification of the stomach, ripe, peeled, boiled and chopped chestnuts mixed with the main food can provide relief.
The included falvonoids have an anti-allergenic, expectorant and anti-inflammatory effect. Properties that are beneficial for numerous ailments. For example, for respiratory infections and coughs.
Also the one already mentioned Tea from the leaves of the sweet chestnut can help with digestive problems such as diarrhea and flatulence.
Danger:
You should always take your dog to a vet if you have health problems! In consultation with the veterinarian, you can support your dog’s treatment at home with natural remedies.
Can dogs eat raw chestnuts?
No, they are not allowed.
Like many other foods, chestnuts must be fully cooked through for your dog. This is the only way your four-legged friend can digest it and be harmless.
Can dogs eat chestnuts and what are the differences?
Yes, dogs are allowed to eat chestnuts, also known as chestnuts, chestnuts or sweet chestnuts.
Horse chestnuts, on the other hand, are toxic to dogs and can lead to neurological impairment or a dangerous intestinal obstruction!
Chestnuts are healthy for dogs in moderation and can occasionally serve as a snack or side dish in the bowl.
Are you unsure whether you can feed your dog chestnuts? Write us your questions under this article!