Can Dogs Eat Nuts?

The safety of nuts for dogs largely depends on the specific type of nut. Some varieties pose minimal risk when given in small amounts as an occasional treat.

Conversely, certain nuts can be toxic or lead to health issues. Even nuts that are generally safe for dogs can cause negative health effects if consumed too frequently.

Dog treats and other dog-healthy snacks can account for up to 10 percent of a dog’s daily caloric intake. So, if you’re asking yourself, Can dogs have nuts?, the answer is yes, but only certain kinds of nuts and in small quantities.  

From packaged snacks to select human foods, you can choose many healthy options to treat your pet. Purina nutritionist, Karina Carbo-Johnson MS shares her expertise on nuts as a complement to a balanced dog food formula. 

Can Dogs Eat Nuts? 

In moderation, dogs can enjoy most nuts as a special treat. “Due to their high fat content, the consumption of nuts can lead to pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas,” explains Carbo-Johnson. “This painful condition can result in vomiting and diarrhea.”

The high fat and calorie content of nuts may also contribute to weight gain. Certain nuts are toxic to dogs, so it’s crucial to exercise caution and conduct research before sharing nuts with your pet.

Can Dogs Eat Peanuts?

Yes, dogs can consume non-salted, dry roasted (raw) peanuts. Although peanuts are technically legumes and not true nuts, they are a safe treat for dogs in moderation.

Peanuts are a rich source of protein and essential nutrients, including biotin, copper, phosphorus, manganese, niacin, thiamin, folate, and vitamin E. They can support skin and coat health, heart function, proper blood circulation, cognitive function, and healthy digestion.

However, peanuts have a high sodium content, which can be unhealthy for dogs if consumed excessively. It is advisable to serve this snack option in small portions.

Can Dogs Have Peanut Butter?

If dogs can safely enjoy a few peanuts, can they also have peanut butter? Yes, but only if it does not contain xylitol.

“Yes, dogs can certainly enjoy peanut butter!” states Carbo-Johnson. “However, peanut butter is high in fat and calories and should be given in moderation. Always check the label, as some peanut butter brands may include xylitol, which is harmful to dogs and can lead to serious health issues.”

Can Dogs Eat Cashews?

Yes, while cashews are not the healthiest option, they are non-toxic to dogs. Like other nuts, excessive consumption can lead to health problems due to their high fat and protein content.

Cashews do offer beneficial nutrients for dogs, but they should only be provided in minimal amounts.

These nuts contain antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and K, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These nutrients can aid in maintaining skin and coat health, cellular health, heart health, neutralizing free radicals, and muscle tissue development.

Can Dogs Eat Pistachios?

In general, no. There are considerable risks associated with feeding your dog pistachios, even though the unshelled pistachio itself is not toxic. Sharing a small amount of unshelled, unsalted pistachios with your dog is possible, but it carries risks.

Like many nuts, pistachios can be detrimental to dogs due to their high fat and calorie content. Overindulgence can lead to obesity, gastrointestinal issues, and pancreatitis. The shells and the nuts themselves can be challenging for dogs to digest, potentially causing intestinal blockages.

Additionally, dogs may experience what is referred to as pistachio poisoning, which is caused by an Aspergillus mold found in pistachios. This mold produces aflatoxins that can lead to symptoms such as loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, jaundice, and even liver failure.

What Nuts Are Dangerous to Dogs?

Can Dogs Eat Macadamia Nuts?

No, macadamia nuts should never be fed to dogs. While researchers have not yet pinpointed the exact reason for the adverse reactions they cause, it is known that they are highly toxic.

Macadamia nut poisoning symptoms: 

• Muscle weakness, especially in the hind legs
• Lethargy
• Loss of coordination
• Diarrhea
• Tremors
• Vomiting
• Fever 

Can Dogs Eat Walnuts?

No, walnuts are also unsafe. Similar to pistachios, walnuts can harbor mold, which may produce tremorgenic mycotoxins that are fatal to dogs.

Black walnuts are particularly hazardous, while English walnuts pose a lesser risk but are still difficult for dogs to digest and may cause internal blockages.

Symptoms of walnut poisoning include:

• Excessive salivation
• Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Tremors
• Fever
• Seizures
• Abdominal pain
• Jaundice
• Liver damage 

Can Dogs Eat Almonds?

No, almonds are not suitable for dogs. Although they are not toxic, almonds present a choking hazard, especially for smaller breeds. They can also lead to intestinal blockages.

Possible side effects of almonds on dogs include:

• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Gas
• Loss of appetite
• Discomfort 

Can Dogs Eat Almond Butter?

While almonds are not recommended, almond butter in small quantities can be a healthy and safe alternative. Ensure it does not contain xylitol. Almond butter is a great source of vitamin E in the form of tocopherols and tocotrienols.

Almond butter also provides vitamin B, bioflavonoids, copper, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Discover more about dog nutrition and get tips from our experts on our Pet Articles page.