Can dog's eat... Nuts?

The answer to this is tricky - dogs can eat many different types of nuts, but only as an occasional treat. Most nuts can be fed in small amounts, but there are a few things to be aware of before you hand them over. There are also a couple of nuts that are toxic to dogs and must never be given. 

They shouldn’t be an everyday snack. Plain, unseasoned nuts are best; added ingredients like sugar and salt are not healthy for dogs. Nuts must also be shelled before being given.

Nuts are very nutritious, but they are also calorie-heavy and contain high levels of fat. Feeding too many nuts could trigger an upset stomach or even a painful bout of pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. If nuts are fed on a regular basis, then they could also contribute to weight gain. So, provided you offer nuts sparingly and safely, they are ok for dogs to have every now and then.

Let’s explore the most common types of nuts in more detail, including a couple that you must avoid altogether

#Can dogs eat peanuts?

Dogs can eat peanuts sometimes, provided they are shelled and offered plain. Avoid salted and flavoured peanuts. The high levels of salt these contain could lead to toxicosis in dogs.

Some owners like to give their pets peanut butter as an occasional treat, smeared on mentally stimulating toys or used to disguise medication. However, you must make sure to stick to xylitol-free types. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener which is safe for us but toxic to dogs.

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##Can dogs eat monkey nuts?

Monkey nuts are just peanuts still in their shells. All nuts must be shelled before being offered to your pet.

##Can dogs eat almonds?

Almonds can be given to dogs sparingly. They are not toxic, but, like all nuts, they are high in calories. Their shape and size could be a choking risk for puppies, small breeds or brachycephalic dogs, so cut them into smaller pieces first.

##Can dogs eat cashews?

Dogs can eat cashews occasionally, if they are plain and unsalted. Their rounded shape and softer texture make them an easier nut for some dogs to tackle.

Can dogs eat cashew nuts raw?

Raw cashews straight from their shells are not recommended, as these will contain urushiol. This oily substance is toxic, so cashews always need to be cooked first to remove it.

##Can dogs eat walnuts?

Shelled walnuts are ok for dogs to have as an occasional treat. It is best to break them into smaller pieces, so they can be more easily digested. Take care if you have any unshelled walnuts in your home. A dog that swallows one of these whole is at real risk of a digestive tract obstruction. If your dog eats a walnut in its shell, then contact your vet immediately.

It's also worth noting that black walnuts are toxic to dogs, so take care if you have one of these trees in your garden.

##Can dogs eat pistachio nuts?

Pistachios are not poisonous to dogs, but like all nuts, they aren’t a healthy snack option either. Their high fat levels can lead to weight gain and digestive upset, so offer them carefully.

##Can dogs eat Brazil nuts?

While not toxic, the Brazil nut’s large shape can be a choking hazard. So, make sure to chop it into pieces before offering it to your pet. Brazil nuts are also very high in fat, containing 3 times the amount of saturated fats that peanuts do. This means they are not the best nut choice for dogs.

##Can dogs eat pecans?

Pecans are not toxic to dogs, but their large size can make digestion tricky. It’s best to break pecans up before offering them. Remember to only give them occasionally.

##Can dogs eat pine nuts?

Pine nuts are not toxic to dogs, but go steady. They still contain high levels of fat, which could cause problems for your pet. Avoid giving your pet leftovers that contain pine nuts, including pesto. Other ingredients used in the dish, like garlic and onion, can be dangerous.

##Can dogs eat hazelnuts?

Hazelnuts are safe if you offer them occasionally. Just avoid giving your pet things like hazelnut pralines or chocolate hazelnut spreads, as chocolate is toxic to dogs.

##Can dogs eat macadamia nuts?

And finally on our list… macadamia nuts. These should never be fed to your dog as they are toxic. Even small quantities of macadamia can cause problems, so ring your vet straight away if you think your dog has accidentally ingested some.

#Health benefits of nuts for dogs

Nuts contain many nutrients, including protein, fibre, vitamin E, magnesium and potassium, as well as fats. However, portion control is key. It can be easy to overdo it, offering your pet too many.

It is best to stick to your dog's normal, good-quality pet food. Supplementing your pet with extras like nuts can lead to weight gain, dietary imbalances and digestive issues.

So only give your dog one or two nuts at a time, and don’t give them every single day.

#Other things to consider

Avoid other ingredients when offering your dog nuts. Caramelised, flavoured or chocolate coated nuts are not healthy for pets, and could be toxic. Even savoury nut selections may be coated in powders containing harmful garlic or onion.

Be careful with fruit and nut mixes. Dried grapes, like raisins and sultanas, can be toxic to dogs. Always keep these well out of reach from your pet.

Mouldy nuts are also extremely dangerous for dogs. The aflatoxins contained in these moulds can cause liver failure. So always check your nuts are fresh and dispose of food waste securely.

Always call your vet immediately if your dog has eaten something potentially dangerous.

#Summary – Can dogs eat nuts?

We’ve explored all the different varieties of nuts and how to offer them safely. Here are the key points:

• Don’t give your dog macadamia nuts or black walnuts; these are toxic.
• Other nuts can be given as an occasional treat, provided they are plain and unshelled.
• While nuts are nutritious, they are also very high in calories and fat.
• Nuts are not recommended as an everyday snack as they can lead to weight gain, stomach upsets and even pancreatitis.