Are Nuts Bad for Dogs?

Toxic Nuts for Dogs

Tree nuts can be found everywhere outdoors. Dogs will encounter them on walks in the woods, city parks, and even your backyard. So, are nuts bad for dogs? Many people know that some outdoor plants can be toxic, but did you know that there are toxic nuts for dogs too?  Not all nuts are dangerous but there are things you will want to be aware of when deciding which nuts and how many you want to include in your dog’s diet. Since several nuts are toxic to dogs, it is important to learn which ones to avoid and the symptoms your dog may show if they did accidentally eat one.

Why You Should Be Careful Feeding Nuts to Your Dog

There are several reasons why you should be cautious feeding your dog any type of nut, let alone large amounts of them. Nuts tend to be high in calories. Using them frequently as treats leads to a lot of extra calories and will make it hard to help your pet maintain healthy body weight.

Nuts are also high in fat. This includes the nuts that are safe to feed our canines, like peanuts. Feeding our dogs foods that are high in fat can lead to pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is when the pancreas gets inflamed and is thought to be caused by consuming fatty foods or in some cases corticosteroids. Cases can be mild to severe and often require hospitalization.

Many nuts due to their size and hardiness are choking hazards. If you choose to feed dog-safe nuts to your pups, make sure you are available to watch them in case they do start choking. You will also want to pay attention to their bathroom and eating habits several days after they have eaten larger nuts. This is because they can also cause intestinal blockages.

Be extra careful with nuts found in the wild or in non-airtight containers. Nuts that are moldy can contain mycotoxins which are toxic to dogs. Mycotoxins can cause neurological issues in our pups.

Toxic Nuts for Dogs

The are several tree nuts that you will want to avoid feeding because they are toxic to dogs. Toxicity levels in the following nuts do differ so be aware that some of these nuts are more dangerous than others. If your dog does accidentally ingest any of these, the symptoms that you should watch out for are different.

Make sure you contact a vet immediately if you think your dog has eaten any of the nuts on this list. In severe cases, time is of the essence and can make the difference between the life and death of your pet.

Remember that ANY nut that has mold on it is most likely toxic- this includes the nuts that otherwise are considered safe for pups.

Bitter Almonds    

Bitter Almonds contain a cyanide compound that is toxic to dogs. This particular type of almond is not found in most United States groceries stores though you may find them in natural food stores.

Black Walnuts   

Black Walnuts contain juglone which can cause seizures and incoordination. This is especially dangerous and common if the shells are moldy.

Acorns      

Acorns have tannins in them which can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea. If enough is eaten, it could lead to liver or kidney failure and even death.

Macadamia     

Macadamia nuts frequently make the top ten list of foods to NOT give your dogs. They often cause symptoms like weakness, hyperthermia, and seizures. Call your vet right away if you think your dog has eaten any.

Buckeye Tree Nuts  

Buckeye Nuts contain glycosides which lead to extreme vomiting and diarrhea, convulsions, and even coma.

Nuts That Are Safe for Dogs

Keep in mind that you still must be careful feeding your dog nuts or nut butter even if they are considered to be safe. Most nuts are naturally high in fat which can lead to pancreatitis in our pups. Pancreatitis cases often require vet care and frequently hospitalization. If you choose to feed your dog nuts, be sure to limit the amount given.

If you decide to buy any type of nut-based spread for your pup such as peanut butter, look at the ingredients carefully. Xylitol has become a popular ingredient in many human foods but can be fatal to dogs even in small doses.

You will want to be careful because due to their size and shell, some nuts are choking hazards or can even cause bowel obstruction.  Make sure you are present and paying attention when feeding your dog these food items. Don’t forget to watch their bowel movements closely over the next several days in order to make sure they haven’t developed an obstruction. Call your vet immediately if they have stopped having bowel movements or have stopped eating.

Peanuts

Cashews

Mockernut Hickory

Brazilian Nuts

Pistachios  

Pistachios are common choking hazards with and without shells

English Walnuts

Be careful when purchasing as BLACK WALNUTS are highly toxic to dogs.

Sweet Almonds

Be careful when purchasing as BITTER almonds are toxic to canines.

Pecans     

Technically pecans are not toxic. However, they are more prone to produce juglone and aflatoxin when they develop mold which can lead to seizures and neurological issues.

The More You Know

Most dogs love being outside, and the outdoors can be very enriching and fun for them. While they are exploring nature, we want them to have fun, but be safe. It is important to be aware of the potential hidden dangers in nature, especially since dogs tend to investigate things with their mouths. Nuts can be especially fun to chew on because they are easy to find and hard in nature, much like sticks. Make sure to pay attention to what your dog discovers on their adventure and keep a close eye out for these toxic tree nuts.

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