Acorns

Acorns are the fruits of the oak tree – and in autumn, they are literally everywhere. In forests, parks, on pavements, in gardens. For squirrels and birds, they are a welcome source of food. Unfortunately, it’s a completely different story for dogs.

Why are acorns poisonous to dogs?

The problem lies in the tannin. This tanning agent occurs in acorns in considerable concentrations and is simply toxic to dogs from a certain amount onwards. As soon as a dog eats acorns, the tannins are released in the gastrointestinal tract – and that’s where the problems begin. How serious it becomes depends largely on the amount consumed.

An overview of the toxic effects of tannins in dogs:

• Gastrointestinal problems: Tannins irritate the stomach lining and intestines. The result: vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite. In more severe cases, the diarrhoea may become bloody – in that case, please go to the vet immediately.
• Symptoms of poisoning: Larger quantities can cause trembling, apathy and excessive salivation. In the worst case, kidney damage may occur, which can be life-threatening.
• Constipation and intestinal obstruction: Whole acorns in large numbers can become lodged in the digestive tract and cause a mechanical bowel obstruction – a real emergency.

Why do dogs like acorns in the first place?

Dogs explore the world with their snouts – and mouths. Whatever is on the ground gets sniffed, nudged, chewed. Acorns are small, roll nicely away, and make a crunching sound. No wonder that especially puppies and young dogs find them exciting.

A few reasons why acorns are so tempting:

• Pure curiosity: New objects on the ground are automatically investigated. Acorns roll, bounce and crack – that makes them interesting.
• Taste and texture: Some dogs like chewing on the hard shell. Not all dogs find the slightly bitter tannin taste off-putting.
• Play drive: An acorn looks like a tiny ball. Nudging, chasing and throwing – that is fun, at least from a dog’s perspective.

What to do if your dog has eaten acorns?

Take a deep breath first – and look closely. If your dog has only eaten one or two acorns, careful observation is often sufficient in many cases. Mild gastrointestinal issues such as brief vomiting or soft stool can occur and often resolve on their own.

It’s a different story if he has eaten a larger amount or if symptoms such as trembling, apathy, bloody diarrhoea, or persistent vomiting occur: Then you must see the vet immediately. In cases of suspected poisoning or intestinal blockage, every hour counts – both conditions can become life-threatening.

How can you protect your dog from acorns?

• Stay attentive during the walk: Especially in autumn, when the ground under oak trees is literally littered with fruit, it pays to keep a watchful eye on what your dog picks up.
• Train the “Leave it” command: A reliable “Leave it” or “Drop it” command is worth its weight in gold – it can stop your dog at the crucial moment before the acorn ends up in its mouth.
• Offer sensible alternatives: Dogs that want to chew a lot need an outlet. Good chew toys or suitable chew items can prevent the dog from resorting to other things.