Chestnuts are different from other nuts because they’re relatively low in calories and fats. These nuts are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, and you’ll notice your dog’s interest in these nuts when you eat them.
Can Dogs Eat Chestnuts?
Yes chestnuts are safe for dogs to eat!
The ASPCA claims that the American Chestnut is fine for dogs to eat. In fact, this nut doesn’t cause toxicity in horses, cats or dogs. So, if you have other animals, you might be able to feed them chestnuts safely.
You want to make sure that the chestnut is a pure chestnut – not mixes or some other processed form of chestnuts.
Keep Serving Sizes Small
The serving size you give to your pup should be small. While non-toxic, feeding your pup too many chestnuts can cause stomach discomfort and may add too many calories to your dog’s diet.
Dogs that are already overweight may be better off eating another nutritious snack.
You can choose to mash up the chestnut and add it into your dog’s food. I don’t recommend choosing chestnuts that have been processed. Salted chestnuts are a big no-no for a pet because the salt content may be too much for your dog.
Dogs that are known for eating food whole, especially if they feel that the food may be threatened by another dog, should not be given these nuts whole.
There’s always a chance that the nut will become lodged in the dog’s throat and cause the dog distress or to choke. It’s always best to mash or break the nut into smaller pieces so that your dog can eat them easily.
Of course, the shell needs to be peeled off of the chestnut, too.
Chestnuts As A Treat For Dogs
A great fall treat, dogs can have chestnuts on occasion without issue. If your dog gets into your baked chestnuts, don’t worry – Fido should be fine. Choking and salt are the biggest concerns, so monitor your dog when he’s eating to make sure that he’s properly chewing the chestnuts before swallowing.
Chestnuts can be very healthy and beneficial for humans, and they’re known to boost immune system function and increase bone mineral density.
When feeding them to your dog as a small treat, you can do so without feeling any guilt. The high fiber content in the chestnut can also help relieve digestive distress in animals, but you’ll want to make sure that your dog doesn’t eat too many, or they may find themselves with an upset stomach.
FAQ
Can Dogs Eat Roasted Chestnuts?
Yes plain roasted chestnuts are fine to dogs to consume in moderation. Just be mindful of common additives like salt that may be unsafe for your dog.
Can Dogs Have Water Chestnuts?
Water chestnuts are not a nut, in fact they are a type aquatic vegetable. Water chestnuts are often used in many Asian style dishes. There is very little definitive information about their safety for dogs, so best to avoid feeding them to your canine friend.
