Are Nuts Good for Dogs?

In salads, stir-frys, breads, spreads, or just all on their own, nuts are supremely satisfying. A handful of mixed nuts can really hit the spot, whether you’re out hiking (trail mix, anyone?), at a party, or sitting in front of the tv…

Given the chance, most dogs would go nuts for nuts. But before you share, it’s worth asking: are nuts good for dogs? The answer is… it depends! Some nuts are safe in small amounts, while others can be downright dangerous. Let’s break it down.

Are Nuts Good for Dogs?

We all know nuts are nutritious and can be a healthy part of a human diet. But can they provide any health benefits to our adored beasts?

For the nuts that are safe (and those are covered below), small portions can offer:

• Healthy fats that support skin and coat health
• Plant-based protein for muscle maintenance
• Vitamins and minerals that support the nervous system and immune health
• Fibre to support the digestive system

So, technically, yes, in moderation, some nuts can add value to the diet. But remember, a dog’s nutritional needs are very different from ours. They don’t need nuts to stay healthy, and too much fat can easily outweigh the benefits.

Which Nuts Are Safe?

1. Peanuts (unsalted, plain). Technically legumes, peanuts are the safest “nut” for dogs. They’re packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins like B3 and E. A little bit of unsalted, dry-roasted, or raw peanut is fine as an occasional treat.
   ➡️ Caution: Peanuts are high in fat, which can upset your dog’s stomach or lead to pancreatitis if given too often.
   
2. Cashews (unsalted, roasted, NOT raw). Cashews are another nut dogs can enjoy sparingly. They contain calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants. Just make sure they’re plain and unsalted, and never feed more than a few at a time.
   ➡️ Caution: Their high fat content makes them an occasional treat, not a regular snack.
   
3. Almonds (technically “sometimes okay”). Almonds aren’t toxic, but they can be hard to digest and pose a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs. If your dog swallows them whole, it can cause intestinal blockage.
   ➡️ Caution: Skip them if your dog has a sensitive stomach.

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Nuts to Avoid

Some nuts are just not a good idea, even in small amounts. These are ones we avoid at all costs:

1. Macadamia Nuts. These are a definite no. Even small amounts can cause weakness, tremors, vomiting, and hyperthermia in dogs. The exact toxin isn’t known, but macadamias are highly toxic and should always be kept out of reach.
2. Walnuts (especially mouldy ones). Fresh, unsalted English walnuts are less dangerous than macadamia nuts, but they’re still not recommended. They’re high in fat and can easily develop mould that produces tremorgenic mycotoxins, which can cause seizures or neurological issues.
3. Pecans. Like walnuts, pecans are prone to mould and contain juglone, a compound that can be harmful to dogs. They’re also very fatty and can lead to stomach upset or pancreatitis.
4. Pistachios. These aren’t toxic, but they’re often salted and hard to digest. They can also harbour mould if not stored properly. It’s best to skip them.
5. Hazelnuts. While not toxic, hazelnuts are choking hazards and tough for dogs to digest. There’s little nutritional benefit to make them worth the risk.

Important Cautions

If you do want to share a few nuts, on occasion, here are some important things to keep in mind:

• Avoid salted, flavoured, or chocolate-covered nuts. Sodium, sugar, and flavour coatings can be harmful or even toxic.
• Watch for xylitol. Some nut butters (especially “diet” or “natural” ones) contain xylitol, which is deadly for dogs.
• Small portions only. A few small pieces once in a while is plenty – nuts are calorie-dense!
• If your dog eats a dangerous nut, especially macadamias or mouldy walnuts, contact your vet right away.

So, are nuts good for dogs? A few can be – in tiny amounts and only occasionally.

Plain, unsalted peanuts or cashews make a fun treat now and then. But most other nuts are better left to you. In general, we keep nuts off the menu and rely on other sources for our healthy fats, vitamins and minerals, and fibre. Stick to dog-safe fruits, veggies, or healthy homemade treats for snacking instead – your dog’s body (and belly) will thank you!