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Yes, dogs can eat water chestnuts in moderation, but you need to peel them off before giving the meal to your pet. Avoid tinned products with extra salt and toxic additives for canines. Carefully cut them into little chunks to make them more chewable for your pooch.

Chestnuts
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Safe: This food is generally considered safe by the veterinary community. Dogs can eat this food sometimes or in small amounts but contains little to no nutritional value.

Food Safety Safe – if fed in moderation, peeled, cut into smaller pieces, and cooked
Nutritional Value High in fiber, minerals, and vitamins, and has low-fat content
Daily Serving Occasional and cooked treat
Benefits Rich source of protein
Every dog is different. For specific feeding guidelines, including quantities and beneficial foods that are best for your dog, please consult your vet.

How Much Water Chestnuts Are Good for Dogs?

Water chestnuts are a vital source of fiber and minerals in any dog’s diet because of their numerous advantages. However, it would be best to give them in moderation to your furbaby after carefully skinning them. You can periodically add cooked and peeled water chestnuts to your dog’s food to make it more nutritious.

How to Feed Water Chestnuts to Dogs

Chop off the bottom and top of the water chestnuts before peeling off the outer layer. Water chestnuts may be given to your dog uncooked or steamed for a short time to soften them. However, you should avoid putting salt or spices like onion or garlic. When giving water chestnuts to your dog, always chop them up into little chunks and occasionally give them as a reward.

What Are The Nutritional Benefits of Water Chestnuts?

  • Water chestnuts are a great source of fiber for dogs that may be used to cure or avoid constipation.
  • It contains numerous minerals and vitamins that are good for a dog’s health. They provide vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6. They also include vitamin C as an antioxidant and omega-3 fatty acids for improving your dog’s brain growth and functioning.
  • Water chestnuts provide a low-fat, high-water-content food you may give your dog; however, they are also heavy in carbs. Feed water chestnuts as a one-in-a-while snack, not as a substitute for wholesome prepared or store-bought dog food, as consuming too many carbohydrates might cause obesity.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes, dogs can eat water chestnuts, only if peeled and cut into small chunks and in small amounts as an occasional treat.

  • Yes, feeding raw water chestnuts to dogs is safe but remember to peel the skin off and cut it into small chunks to avoid choking hazards.

  • Antioxidants included in water chestnuts can lower the chances of developing various chronic illnesses and disorders in dogs.

About the Writer
Dan Greco , Dog Dad

Having been a dog dad for 5 years, I know how hard it is to make sure your dog gets the right nutrients and stays away from hazardous foods. With the help of a veterinarian who specializes in nutrition, I created this blog to help dog owners quickly access food information they need.

photo of vet holding a pup
About the Contributor
Dr. Hillary Wolfe , Veterinarian & Certified Food Therapist

Dr. Wolfe holds a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Kansas State University and holds nutrition certifications from the NAVC and CIVT. Her business, Tula Veterinary Nutrition, hosts online courses that teach owners how to cook for their pet for optimal health and longevity. Follow her on Instagram at @doctorwolfe.dvm for dog nutrition tips, recipes and insights.