Are acorns bad for dogs?

Quick takeaways about acorns

• Acorns contain tannins – chemical compounds that are poisonous to dogs.
• Eating them can cause stomach upset, kidney failure and even death.
• If your dog has eaten an acorn, even if it’s just one, always seek advice from your vet.

Fallen acorns are a common sight out on walks in the autumn months, and they can be incredibly tempting to curious dogs.

These small nuts – which grow on oak trees and each contains a tiny oak embryo – might appeal to your dog’s foraging instincts when scattered all over the ground.

The bad news is, acorns are bad for dogs as they contain tannins – a type of naturally occurring chemical compound that is poisonous to them. As well as causing stomach upsets, acorns can cause liver and kidney failure. They also pose a choking risk – particularly for smaller dogs and puppies – and cause intestinal blockages.

Thankfully, many dogs are put off by the bitter taste of acorns, so most won’t be tempted beyond an initial sniff or lick.

But dogs are naturally inquisitive, and some seem to have a penchant for acorns – whether it’s the taste or the satisfying crunch.

If your dog has eaten an acorn, you’ll need to speak to a vet. Read on to find out why it’s important to get their expert advice, plus how to prevent your dog from snacking on acorns in the first place.

 

What actually is an acorn?

Acorns are the fruit of oak trees. Technically, they’re classed as botanical nuts, each containing a single seed wrapped in a sturdy shell.

Acorns are a food source for many animals, like squirrels, but their tannins can be harmful to dogs.

The same tannins are found in oak leaves and bark, and other things that might be tempting to your dog – like conkers.

 

Why are tannins bad for dogs?

High amounts of tannins are toxic and can cause liver and kidney damage in dogs, as well as intestinal problems and inflammation in the gut.

Not only that, but if acorns are swallowed whole, they can create a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract – so it’s not only the tannins that pose a risk.

 

What are the symptoms of acorn poisoning?

If your dog has eaten an acorn, look out for the following symptoms, which could appear anything from a few hours to a few days afterwards:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Blood in the stool or vomit
• Loss of appetite
• Tender stomach
• Lethargy
• Shaking
• Excessive thirst, which could be due to kidney damage
• Jaundice, which could point to liver damage

The last two symptoms indicate a serious risk of acorn poisoning, so take your dog to the vet urgently if you notice either of these.

 

How many acorns would make my dog seriously ill?

Tannin levels vary from one acorn to the next – unripe green acorns contain higher amounts of tannins, whereas brown acorns contain lower amounts – so it’s not a case of one-size-fits-all.

The number of acorns that would make your dog poorly will also depend on factors like the size and age of your dog, plus any pre-existing health conditions.

 

When should I contact my vet?

If you’re concerned that your dog has eaten an acorn, it’s always worth getting a vet’s advice – most vets will be able to advise you over the phone and tell you if your dog needs to be seen.

If your dog has any symptoms, or has eaten a large number of acorns, take them to the vet for advice. If they become confused, jaundiced or excessively thirsty you will need to treat it as an emergency.

 

How can I prevent my dog from eating acorns?

Prevention is better than cure, and although dogs are naturally curious there are some things you can do to steer them away from acorn-eating.

The number of acorns that would make your dog poorly will also depend on factors like the size and age of your dog, plus any pre-existing health conditions.

1. Keep them on a lead

In areas where you know there are oak trees, and in autumn when acorns are most likely to be all over the ground, keeping your dog on a lead will give you better control over what they manage to forage from the floor.

2. Take a chew toy on walks

A favourite toy or ball to keep your dog’s mouth occupied will mean they’re less inclined to eat things they find on the walk.

3. Hone the ‘leave it’ command

Making sure your dog can drop an item from their mouth on command will be invaluable when they’ve picked up something that could be bad for them.

4. Have treats to hand on walks

These can both be used as a reward for dropping an acorn from their mouth, and as a distraction tool when you notice them on the floor. Natures Menu healthy treats are ideal for this.

5. Make sure they’re not hungry

While it sounds obvious, making sure your dog isn’t hungry before heading off on a walk will mean they’re less likely to want to eat whatever they find on the floor.

Feeding them a complete and balanced raw diet will give them everything they need to stay happy and healthy – and it might even prevent an acorn-related trip to the vet.

Try our personalised meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients – including fresh fruits and vegetables – for a healthier, happier dog.