Are Acorns Poisonous to Dogs

Acorns might seem harmless — just another part of nature scattered across parks and woodland trails. But for dogs, they can pose a serious risk. Whether your dog is curious, playful, or just loves to chew, picking up an acorn during a walk can lead to health issues that range from mild to dangerous.

Why Acorns Are a Problem

Acorns contain tannins — naturally occurring compounds that can upset your dog’s stomach and potentially cause toxicity in larger amounts. They’re especially concentrated in green, unripe acorns, which are more likely to fall in early autumn. While a single acorn might only cause mild symptoms in some dogs, repeated or heavy consumption can lead to poisoning.

Symptoms of Acorn Poisoning

If your dog has eaten acorns, watch for signs like vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, loss of appetite, and signs of abdominal pain. In more serious cases, dogs may become lethargic, dehydrated, or show signs of kidney or liver strain. These symptoms can appear within hours, so acting quickly is important.

Even if your dog doesn’t swallow an acorn, chewing one can be risky. The hard outer shell can damage their teeth or gums, and broken pieces may cause choking or intestinal blockages — especially in smaller dogs.

How Much Is Too Much?

It’s hard to say exactly how many acorns would make a dog sick, because it depends on the size, age, and overall health of the dog — along with how many were eaten and whether they were green or dried. However, vets generally agree that no amount is safe, and dogs should be discouraged from chewing or eating them entirely.

Puppies Are Especially at Risk

Puppies love to explore the world with their mouths and are more likely to chew or swallow things they shouldn’t. They’re also smaller and have more sensitive digestive systems, which means even a single acorn can cause an outsized reaction. Supervision on walks is essential during autumn when acorns are most plentiful.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats an Acorn

If you suspect your dog has eaten acorns, contact your vet straight away. Try to estimate how many were eaten and note the time. Early treatment can make a big difference in outcomes. Don’t try to make your dog vomit unless your vet specifically instructs you to — it can sometimes do more harm than good.

Prevention is Best

During autumn, try to walk your dog in areas where acorns are less likely to be scattered. If you’re in a park or wooded area, keep an eye out and distract your dog with toys or treats to avoid them picking things up from the ground. Teaching a strong “leave it” command can also help prevent future incidents.

Summary

So, are acorns poisonous to dogs? Yes — they can cause anything from stomach upset to serious illness, especially if eaten in quantity. Keeping a close eye on your dog during autumn walks and discouraging them from chewing acorns is the safest approach. If you think your dog has eaten one, a quick response is the best way to avoid complications.