Can Dogs Eat Acorns? Are Acorns Toxic to Dogs?

No, dogs should not eat acorns. Acorns contain natural toxins that can irritate your dog’s digestive system and lead to poisoning if eaten in excess. On top of that, their hard shells can be a choking hazard and may cause a dangerous intestinal blockage, especially in smaller dogs. 

Experts say eating acorns is dangerous to dogs for a few reasons. These include:

The main culprit behind acorn toxicity is a naturally occurring compound called tannins. Tannins are found in acorns (as well as oak leaves and bark). They can irritate your dog’s stomach lining, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and/or abdominal pain, according to Sarah Cortright, DVM, veterinarian and chief medical director for the Underdog Community Project in Los Angeles.  

When eaten in large enough amounts, tannins can lead to kidney or liver damage. Your dog’s body breaks down the tannins, creating a byproduct called gallic acid, which is what causes the organ damage. While not every dog will react the same way, the risk increases with repeated or significant ingestion, especially in small dogs or puppies. 

Acorns that have been sitting on the ground for a while can develop mold, which produces toxic mycotoxins. If your dog ingests mycotoxins, it can trigger neurological symptoms like tremors, seizures, and even organ failure. 

Additionally, the hard outer shell of the acorn itself can cause choking, an intestinal blockage, or damage to the digestive lining, according to Michael Hyder, DVM, medical director at VEG ER for Pets in Palo Alto, California.  

The number of acorns it takes to make a dog sick varies based on their size and individual sensitivity.  

In general, smaller dogs are at greater risk because it takes fewer acorns to reach a toxic dose. 

Keep in mind, however, that even a single acorn can irritate some dogs. Plus, toxicity can build up over time. Because of that, it’s best to keep your dog away from acorns completely. 

Symptoms of acorn poisoning in dogs typically develop within a few hours, but may take several days to appear. They can also range from mild to severe, says Dr. Hyder.  

If you suspect your dog has eaten acorns, watch for the following symptoms: 

• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Lack of appetite 
• Lethargy 
• Abdominal pain 
• Increased thirst 
• Increased urination 
• Tremors or seizures (in severe cases) 

If your pup ​​eats an acorn (whether or not they show symptoms), call your veterinarian immediately. Dr. Hyder says early treatment can help prevent more serious complications, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry. 

If your dog requires treatment, the approach will depend on how recently the acorns were ingested and your dog’s symptoms. While there’s not a specific treatment for acorn toxicity, Dr. Hyder says your veterinarian may: 

1. Induce vomiting if the ingestion was recent and your dog is stable. 
2. Administer activated charcoal to reduce toxin absorption. 
3. Administer IV fluids to help flush the kidneys and keep your dog hydrated. 
4. Treat GI symptoms with anti-nausea medications. 
5. Monitor blood work if liver or kidney damage is suspected. 

If your dog has a habit of munching on acorns, there are a few things you can try to protect them from harm and correct the behavior, such as: 

• Supervise outdoor time: Keep a close eye on your dog while they’re outside, especially in areas with a lot of oak trees. 
• Clean up acorns regularly: The cleaner your dog’s environment, the better. If you have a lot of acorns in your yard, pick them up. 
• Train and redirect their behavior: Teach your dog a “leave it” or “drop it” command using high-value treats, like the Bixbi Pocket Trainers. If you need help, consider hiring a professional trainer. 

• Consider a muzzle: Use a basket muzzle, like the Bronzedog Adjustable Muzzle, during walks for dogs who love to snack on the ground. However, Dr. Cortright cautions that basket muzzles should be used only with supervision. 

• Provide other enrichment: If your dog is eating acorns out of boredom or curiosity, redirect their attention with a safe chew treat, like the TruRanch Colla-Rolls, which can help satisfy their natural urge to chew. 

Are acorns safe for dogs to eat? 

No, acorns are not safe for dogs to eat. They contain tannins, which can upset your dog’s stomach or lead to kidney or liver damage in severe cases. 

Why do dogs eat acorns? 

Dogs may eat acorns for many reasons. Sometimes it’s out of curiosity when they’re exploring new scents and textures. Other times, dogs may chew on acorns to satisfy their natural urge to chew or out of boredom or habit. 

What happens if a dog eats a single acorn? 

If a dog eats a single acorn, they might get mild stomach upset, like vomiting or diarrhea, especially if they’re small or have a sensitive stomach. While one acorn may not cause toxicity, there’s also a risk of choking or an intestinal blockage.