Can Dogs Eat Nuts? Here’s What You Need To Know!

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Nuts are nutritious, but don’t let that fool you!

Can I Give My Dog Nuts?Despite what seems like a perfect bite-sized reward, they can be problematic for dogs in some concerning ways including:

  • Organ inflammation
  • Stomachaches
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

And of course, choking is also possible.

Obviously feeding your dog certain people foods is tricky — nuts are a textbook example.

Most Types of Nuts Are Off Limits For Dogs

In general, this food group is best avoided.

The thing is…

Some kinds of nuts are toxic for dogs, while others are just too fatty (rich).

In an nutshell, (no pun intended) there are too many downsides.

Hold on! We’ll be naming names.

For now let’s detail exactly what this means…

Consequences For K9s

It’s about long term effects. The fact is most canines have trouble processing nuts.

The end result?

Pancreatitis could eventually develop (if you regularly feed nuts). You don’t want your dog suffering through that.

So here’s the game plan:

  1. Don’t make a habit of sharing nuts. Off limits, or;
  2. Get an alternative like Nut ‘R’ Nips or;
  3. Be super selective and small amounts only.

Time to get specific…

A Rundown of Nuts

  • Macadamia nuts are too rich for dogs. Fat levels are off the charts and they’re actually toxic. They can cause lethargy, vomiting, tremors and fever.
  • Walnuts can also have toxicity. They are prone to mold (Mycotoxins) which could cause tremors. Forget it!
  • Dogs do not digest almonds so well. They also contain saturated fats. Not great, though not poisonous.
  • Cashews are also high in fat and calories. No toxicity, but a pet pooch may gain weight (more sluggish). Not good, not terrible.

Which Nuts are OK?

What about other varieties such as Pecans, Pistachios, Hazelnuts, Chestnuts, Brazil and Pine nuts?

It all comes down to this…

They all contain too much fat for your dog. We can’t recommend any nut (at least in whole form).

Got a bag of nuts? Think twice!

And, of course, added salt is another factor to consider.

What Usually Happens?

Gastric intestinal issues are the norm. Vomiting and/or diarrhea is also to be expected (though not the biggest concern).

Make no mistake about it: Nuts can wreak havoc on your dog’s digestion.

And although rare, there could even be neurological effects.

Protect That Pancreas!

Dogs just aren’t cut out for pretty much any type of nut consumption.

Seriously…

Acute Pancreatitis (an inflamed pancreas) is a real possibility. We’re talking permanent yet preventable damage.

Nuts are for people, not pets.

Peanut Butter is Perfect

Peanut butter is looking fantastic right about now.

Have you noticed that many dog treat makers are incorporating it?

Peanut butter is even stuffed into bones. What a great dog chew idea!

Heck! Medicine is commonly concealed using this creamy spread. Just be sure your peanut butter does not contain Xylitol.

The Bottom Line

Your dog will not really benefit from nuts.

They are a questionable treat at best. In fact, serious complications can arise over time.

Don’t share! Keep those shelled nuts well out of reach.

What Do You Think? Are Nuts Safe For Dogs? Have Your Say Below…

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3 thoughts on “Can Dogs Eat Nuts? Here’s What You Need To Know!”

  1. I tried to feed Mille a walnut. It was on the floor but she didn’t eat it, so I took it outside and slammed it two times on the patio. I tried again and she didn’t eat it. Can someone tell me why she didn’t eat it? It was from a walnut tree.

  2. Dog Owner says:

    Can I give Tiger nuts to my dog or not?

  3. Can I give my dog sunflower seeds? If yes, shelled or not?

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