Yes, dogs can eat chestnuts! When properly served, they could be a great inclusion to your dog’s diet as they help promote healthy skin/coat, regular bowel movement, and a healthy immune system.

However, before giving your dog a bite of chestnuts, there are a few things you need to remember.

The safest way to feed your dog with chestnuts is to ensure they’re cooked and peeled. Raw chestnuts with their hard shell can pose a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs. Do not season with salt, onions, garlic, or sugar or coat with chocolate as this will be toxic to your pet dog. Plain and unseasoned would be best!

While your dog may love chestnuts, be sure to feed in moderation. Too many chestnuts are not advisable as this may cause stomach issues such as pancreatitis. If unsure of your dog’s allergy to nuts, try only a small amount and observe or consult your vet.

Most importantly above everything else, be sure to know the type of chestnut you will be feeding to your dog as there is one exception. Horse chestnuts or conkers are poisonous for dogs and may cause symptoms such as diarrhea, drooling, seizures, and vomiting. 

If your dog accidentally eats conker, call your veterinarian immediately!

To ensure your pet will live a long and healthy life, it is always a good idea to invest in pet health insurance. Preparing for the unexpected guarantees money is never an issue in keeping you pup healthy.