Do you let your dog enjoy nuts? It is a perfectly sized tasty treat for your dog. Even then, have you ever thought nuts are safe for your dog? There’s no easy answer—each nut is different, and how they’re fed has a big impact on safety. Can dogs eat nuts?
Here’s some insight on whether dogs can have nuts, and the risks you should be aware of.
Can Dogs Eat Nuts?
You might have given certain nuts and nut butter to your dog. Regardless of how much you give your pup nuts to eat, it’s important to be aware of all risk factors and potential toxicities. Most nuts are not that toxic, but there are a few types of nuts toxic to pups. Any moldy nut becomes toxic to dogs. Not only about the toxicity, but all nuts are generally high in fat and calories. You may offer a little, even the little pinch might make your pup go off. Some nuts cause potential choking hazards for dogs or intestinal blockage. Here are some risks of giving nuts as treats.
Nuts Are High in Calories and Cause Weight Gain
If your pup or furry friend overweighs, you should not give him or her nuts anymore. You can give lower-calorie human foods like green beans, apples, or even air-popped popcorn that’s free of butter and salt instead of nuts. If you give small amounts of peanut butter to take pills, you should not allow the calories provided by all combined treats (including the peanut butter) to exceed 10% of their total daily calories. It helps prevent unbalancing your dog’s diet.
This table provides the approximate caloric content (kcal/100g)* of various types of nuts:
| Nut Type | Calories (kcal*/100g) |
| Almonds, blanched | 590 |
| Almonds, dry roasted, unsalted | 598 |
| Cashews, dry roasted, unsalted | 574 |
| Cashews, raw | 553 |
| Peanuts, dry roasted, unsalted | 587 |
| Peanuts, raw | 567 |
| Pecans, dry roasted, unsalted | 710 |
| Pecans, raw | 691 |
| Pistachios, dry roasted, unsalted | 572 |
| Pistachios, raw | 560 |
| Walnuts, English raw |
*Reference: U.S. Department of Agriculture FoodData Central database, standard references
High Fat-Concentrated Nuts Can Cause Pancreatitis
Moreover, High-fat concentrated nuts can cause gastrointestinal (GI) upset in dogs with sensitive stomachs or those prone to developing pancreatitis. It inflammates and irritates the pancreas. If your pup faces such a terrible condition you may immediately usher your dog to the veterinarian. You may recognize symptoms such as Decreased or no appetite, Vomiting, Lethargy, and Diarrhea. Some breeds, like Miniature, Standard, and Giant Schnauzers, are prone to this condition, and a high-fat diet in sensitive dogs can sometimes trigger the irritation.
Nuts Coatings Are Dangerous for Dogs
Nuts can be coated with ingredients like cocoa or spices like garlic, which can be toxic to pets. Other flavorful coatings four-legged friends, and they can have danger and they can have salt content.
What Types of Nuts Are Safe or Toxic for Dogs?
While some nuts are technically safe for dogs, there are still concerns you should keep in mind based on the type of nut.
Can Dogs Eat Peanuts or Peanut Butter?
Shelled, unseasoned peanuts are generally safe for dogs to enjoy. However, avoid giving your dog peanut shells—they’re tough to digest and can lead to stomach upset or choking. Peanut butter or other nut butter like almond butter are popular dog treats and useful for hiding medications. But keep in mind, that nut butter is high in calories, fat, and salt, so moderation is key.
Always check the ingredient list before giving your dog peanut butter. Some nut butter contains xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs. Xylitol can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and even liver failure.
Can Dogs Eat Walnuts?
The type of walnut matters:
- English walnuts are safe for dogs to eat in moderation.
- Black walnuts are toxic and should never be given to dogs.
Toxicity from black walnuts can cause symptoms like vomiting, muscle weakness, tremors, high temperature, and seizures.
Can Dogs Eat Macadamia Nuts?
No, macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs. Symptoms of macadamia nut poisoning include vomiting, muscle weakness, tremors, high temperature, and seizures. Never feed macadamia nuts to your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Pistachios?
Pistachios, whether shelled or unshelled, can pose a choking hazard for dogs. However, they are not toxic. If your dog accidentally swallows one, they’re likely to be fine, but it’s best to avoid offering pistachios intentionally.
Can Dogs Eat Cashews?
Cashews are generally safe for dogs to eat. As with all nuts, serve them sparingly due to their high fat and calorie content.
Can Dogs Eat Pecans?
Pecans are also safe for dogs to eat in moderation, provided they are unsalted and plain.
Can Dogs Eat Almonds?
Almonds can be choking, especially if they are still in their shells. However, almond butter can be a safe treat or a way to give your dog medication—as long as it doesn’t contain harmful additives like xylitol.
While some nuts are safe for dogs to eat, others can pose risks ranging from choking hazards to serious toxicity. Always research and consult your vet before introducing nuts or nut-based products into your dog’s diet. When in doubt, stick to dog-safe treats!
