Your Dog and Acorns

In the last couple of weeks I've started seeing acorns in my yard.  Of course, my dogs go right for them and they are in their mouth and they are trying to eat them.

But is this ok?  

We had recently moved into our house.  I had not had acorn problems where we previously lived.  So I take to the internet.

Yes, acorns can make my dogs sick.  Acorns contain tannins.  Tannins are plant polyphenols and can interfere with an animal's ability to metabolize protein.  

These tannins can cause stomach upset and diarrhea in some pets.  Another problem with the acorns is that they can potentially cause an obstruction of the intestines, gastritis or inflammation. Some other signs of acorn toxicity can include loss of appetite, lethargy, dehydration, increased thirst and urination and constipation.  

You want to minimize your dogs’ exposure to acorns, and be especially careful that their water bowl is not contaminated.  Even their water can be affected by the leaves soaking in the water.  Acorns, oak buds, leaves, and drinking water that acorns and oak leaves have soaked in, have all caused symptoms of oak poisoning.

If you notice that your dog has eaten acorns and becomes sick, you should contact your vet.  Let them know that your dog has been eating acorns. 

So what do you do?  

Raking your yard and keeping your dog away from the area where the acorns are falling is recommended.  However, that isn't an option for us.  Raking, keeping a close watch on our dogs and pulling the acorns out of their mouth has been our solution!! And, teaching your dogs 'drop it' and 'leave it' also work!!  I'm ready to battle the acorns!!  Are you?? 

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