On the question of whether dogs can eat chestnuts, different experts and pet owners have different opinions. This is mainly because the composition and properties of chestnuts may have adverse effects on some dogs, but may not be a problem for others.
Chestnuts are high in starch and fiber, which can be beneficial for a human diet, but for dogs, too much starch may cause gastrointestinal upset, especially for those with sensitive digestive systems. Additionally, the hard shell and larger particles of chestnuts can also pose a challenge to your dog's digestive system, especially if the dog eats too quickly or swallows chestnuts whole.
From a safety point of view, if a dog swallows chestnut whole, it may become stuck in the throat or digestive tract, causing obstruction or other injury. Therefore, even if chestnuts are to be fed to dogs, they should be in small amounts, and it is best to husk, chop, or grind them into powder form to ensure that the dog can digest them safely.
Also, it's worth noting that sugar-fried chestnuts on the market are usually higher in sugar and other additives, which can be detrimental to your dog's health. Therefore, if you want to feed chestnuts to your dog, it is best to choose raw or minimally processed chestnuts.
In summary, while chestnuts themselves may not be a harmful food for dogs, pet owners are advised to be very cautious when feeding chestnuts due to potential digestive and safety concerns. If your dog has digestive problems or has an allergic reaction to other foods, it is best to avoid feeding chestnuts. At the same time, keep your dog's diet balanced and varied to ensure that they are getting enough nutrients.