Yes, dogs can eat cooked chestnuts with caution.
A member of the beech family Fagaceae, chestnuts are deciduous trees and shrubs that grow in temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere. They bear nuts of the same name, which are edible for both humans and dogs. There are currently four main chestnut species: American, European, Chinese, and Japanese.
Rich in potassium, chestnuts grow in spiny burrs for about two to four weeks. They fall to the ground when they mature. Some people may be able to eat them raw, but since these contain tannic acid, they shouldn’t be given to dogs uncooked. Tannic acid can damage your dog’s kidneys and liver, causing stomach pain, diarrhea (with or without blood), vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy.
How to feed chestnuts to your dog: Get your veterinarian’s consent before letting your dog try chestnuts. Go for one to two pieces of plainly roasted and peeled chestnuts.
Break the nut into smaller pieces, especially for small-sized dogs. Make sure to dispose of the shells properly to prevent choking or intestinal blockage. Also, refrain from serving chestnuts mixed with salt, sugar, cinnamon, and other spices to your pooch.
In summary: Packed with potassium, fiber, fatty acids, and antioxidants, cooked and unseasoned chestnuts may be a unique snack option for dogs over the holidays. The low-fat nut may be given as treats to dogs with weight issues. But be sure to control his portions or he may suffer from gastrointestinal issues such as upset stomach, abdominal pain, or pancreatitis.
Browse through our “can dogs eat” category to discover other human foods you can safely give your canine pet.
References:
Can Dogs Have Nuts? Safe and Bad Nuts For Your Dog
Common seasonal poisons and food dangers for dogs and puppies
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