Dog owners have been warned that this autumn’s crop of smaller conkers poses a higher risk to their pets than in previous years.

Conkers are hazardous for dogs because they can block airways, leading to asphyxiation and they also contain a chemical called aesculin, which is toxic to dogs and can cause internal damage if ingested.

With conkers much smaller in size this year due to the summer heatwave leaving the chestnuts shrivelled, the risk to canines is greater and vets have warned dog owners to be particularly alert.

Zoe Edwards, Head of Animal Welfare at Mayhew, an animal welfare charity said: “Conkers pose a real risk to dogs as their round, hard shape can easily block airways and get stuck in dogs throats, leading to potentially fatal choking.

“This Autumn in particular has brought an influx of smaller conkers, and so more dogs than ever face yet another conker related danger – being poisoned from swallowing their more digestible size.

“Conkers are toxic to dogs, so please keep a close eye on your pet whilst out for a walk, and make sure to seek immediate advice from a vet if you suspect your dog has eaten or ingested a conker – however large or small.”