A refreshing autumn walk is satisfying for both dogs and humans. Dogs love ruffling through the autumn leaves as much as we love to hear their crunch, and finding a pretty tree acorn or two only adds to the fun – except when it turns deadly.
Traditionally, they’ve added a festive touch to your wreaths, garlands, and vases. Many don’t realise it, but if you are a dog owner, an innocent centrepiece item could turn into a disastrous dinner. With millions of oak trees throughout the UK, there isn’t exactly a shortage. With the season of cooler temperatures and longer nights also bringing with it an abundance of deadly acorns, experts have issued key advice on the importance of staying wary, how to steer clear, and what to do if your pooch accidentally feasts on one.
A survey by pet insurance experts Quotezone, which quizzed 1,000 people across the UK during October 2024, revealed almost half of respondents didn’t even realise these pretty Autumn nuts were actually highly toxic, making the warning even more pertinent. Despite acorn poisoning not being so common, expert Tiffany Mealiff emphasises: “We all love our four legged friends and want to do our best to keep them protected from anything harmful, so it’s important to keep an extra eye on them this autumn, especially if strolling through a wooded area.
“It’s surprising to see nearly half of those surveyed didn’t know acorns were poisonous to dogs. Although acorn poisoning is not that common, it’s best not to take any risks – especially if you have excited pups that enjoy nibbling on anything they can get their paws on.
“It’s also worth taking out a pet insurance policy, to protect you and your pets against situations such as this – most policies now include a 24/7 vet helpline for emergencies.”
An innocent bite could bring the onset of vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, and drooling. Even a small amount can cause long-term damage, and although uncommon, if large amounts are consumed, acorns can even cause liver and kidney failure.
The Blue Cross warns that it’s also possible for acorns to cause a blockage of the intestines in smaller dogs.
It’s the toxic tannins which cause the gastrointestinal upset and green, unripe acorns are actually more poisonous than brown ones. If acorn poisoning is suspected, dog owners should contact their vet immediately.
Of course, in autumn, it pays to be extra vigilant to avoid harm, especially if strolling through a woodland area. Experts have issued five key pieces of advice.
Prioritising safety may feel slightly cumbersome at first, but taking a few extra but vital steps will ultimately make for happier pooches and owners.
The good news is that tougher measures may only need to be in place until January, when acorns are most likely past. From potentially re-routing to taking advantage of your dogs favourite toys, here are the five key measures:
- Change of route – Consider swapping your favourite route for a path that is less densely populated with oak trees. Putting your favourite route on hold could be the best option for now, at least until January, when acorns are most likely past.
- Keep them close – As well as being vigilant for stray acorns, keep a closer eye on your dog. Don’t hesitate to put them on a lead if you must.
- Distract from potential dangers – Make sure never to encourage play with the acorns themselves. Instead, put your dog’s favourite toy to good use by using it as a distraction.
- Practice emergency commands – Preparation is key to ensuring your journey is smooth and safe. Practice key commands beforehand, like “leave it” or “drop it”, so your pup can react quickly.
- Do extra research – In addition to priming your dog for a successful walk, you’ll want to be aware of any key dangers in your area. It’s not just woodland areas that pose a risk, but poisonous items could be washed up on the beach or at the edge of rivers.
In the unfortunate case that an acorn-related incident does occur, treatment for poisoning will depend on how severe your dog’s symptoms are.
The Blue Cross explains that your vet might need to give medication to help with vomiting, diarrhoea, and pain. In more serious cases, rehydration and blood tests may be required. If your vet thinks the acorn might be causing a blockage in your dog’s stomach, X-rays or surgery could be needed.
Interestingly, humans have enjoyed acorn-based foods like flour, porridge, and even soups and flatbreads because they’ve been processed correctly. However, the tannins in acorns also make them unsafe for humans to eat in their raw form.
Other toxic foods for dogs include chocolate, raisins, macadamia nuts, alcohol, and even garlic and corn cobs.
Quotzone adds: “It’s also worth taking out a pet insurance policy, to protect you and your pets against situations such as this – most policies now include a 24/7 vet helpline for emergencies.”
