Can Dogs Eat Nuts? Safe Options & Ones to Avoid

Cagri Sarigoz Cagri Sarigoz · Updated May 13, 2025

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Can Dogs Eat Nuts?

Dogs can eat some nuts, but others are toxic and might cause serious health problems. Even safe nuts should only be given in small amounts due to their high fat content, and some dogs are more sensitive than others.

Why Dogs React Differently to Nuts

  • Your dog’s digestive system is different from yours. Dogs are not as good at breaking down fat, which is why high-fat treats, like many nuts, can cause issues such as upset stomach, diarrhea, and inflammation of the pancreas.
  • Some nuts contain compounds or molds that are toxic to dogs. For example, macadamia nuts and black walnuts can cause poisoning, while moldy nuts might lead to tremors or seizures. Dogs with sensitive stomachs, or those that are small, can react strongly even to a small piece.
  • Also, the size and texture of nuts can be a choking hazard, especially for small dogs. Whole nuts are risky because they can get stuck in your dog’s throat or intestines, causing blockages.

Overview of Common Nut Types

Not all nuts are the same. Some nuts are considered safer for dogs than others, but even safe nuts should only be given as an occasional treat. Here is a summary:

Nut Type Safe for Dogs? Notes
Peanuts Yes (plain, unsalted) Only a few at a time; avoid shells
Cashews Yes (plain, unsalted) Cooked or roasted, small amounts
Almonds Not recommended Hard to digest; choking risk
Macadamia Nuts No Toxic to dogs
Walnuts Not recommended Moldy ones are highly toxic
Pistachios Not recommended High fat; choking risk
Pecans Not recommended Can contain toxins

You can learn more details about which nuts are safe for dogs at Purina.

Identifying Symptoms of Nut Toxicity

  • Signs of nut toxicity in dogs can show up within a few hours. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, shaking, fever, weakness, and loss of coordination. Macadamia nuts can cause weakness in the back legs and tremors, sometimes even at low doses.
  • Blockages from swallowing whole nuts may cause drooling, trouble pooping, bloating, or vomiting. Dogs that eat moldy nuts might develop seizures or severe muscle tremors.
  • If your dog shows any of these signs after eating nuts, you should contact a veterinarian right away. Symptoms can become serious quickly, so fast action is important.

Safe Nuts for Dogs

Some nuts are considered safer for dogs than others. Peanuts, cashews, and chestnuts are three options that many owners reach for, but each has its own things to consider.

Peanuts and Unsalted Peanuts

Peanuts are usually safe for dogs if they are plain, unsalted, and shelled. Avoid flavored or salted peanuts because added salt can be harmful. Peanut shells are hard to digest and may cause choking, so always remove them first.

If your dog is not allergic, you can offer a few unsalted peanuts as an occasional treat. Overfeeding peanuts can lead to weight gain due to their fat content. Stick to small amounts and use them as a reward instead of a regular snack. Peanut butter is safe if it does not contain xylitol, an ingredient toxic to dogs. When using peanut butter or peanuts, watch for upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Quick Tips for Peanuts:

  • Only give peanuts in moderation
  • Always remove shells
  • Choose unsalted and uncoated varieties

Cashews and Cashew Butter

Cashews are another nut that is generally safe for dogs to eat in small amounts. Only give plain, unsalted, and unprocessed cashews. Salted or spiced versions can cause health problems or stomach upset. Cashews should be given sparingly because they are high in fat. Too many can cause weight gain and may lead to pancreatitis in sensitive dogs. One or two cashews make a good treat if your dog does not show any allergy symptoms.

Cashew butter must not contain xylitol or other additives. Plain cashew butter in small doses is usually safe if your dog isn’t sensitive to nuts. Introduce new foods slowly and watch for any reactions.

Cashew checklist:

  • Give plain and unsalted cashews
  • Offer small amounts only
  • Avoid any flavored or mixed nuts

Chestnuts

  • Chestnuts are considered safe for dogs if they are cooked, plain, and unsalted. Raw chestnuts can be hard to chew and digest, so always cook them without any seasoning. Do not confuse chestnuts with horse chestnuts, which are toxic.
  • Chestnuts are low in fat compared to many other nuts. They can be a good choice for dogs needing to avoid high-fat foods. Chop chestnuts into bite-sized pieces to avoid choking.
  • Introduce chestnuts slowly and offer only small amounts at first. Too much can cause stomach upset or digestive issues. For more on safe nuts for dogs, check out this comprehensive nut safety guide.

Nut Butters and Dogs

Nut butters can be a treat for many dogs, but not every type is safe. It’s important to check the ingredients and know which options are best for your pet.

Peanut Butter and Xylitol

  • Peanut butter is a popular snack for dogs and is often used to hide pills or as a reward. Most plain, unsweetened peanut butters are safe in small amounts. Always check the ingredient label for xylitol, a sugar substitute that is toxic to dogs even in tiny doses. Ingesting xylitol can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and lead to liver failure.
  • Sugar, salt, and other additives in peanut butter can also upset your dog’s digestion, so choose unsalted and unsweetened varieties. Do not give your dog reduced-sugar or “sugar-free” peanut butters, as these often contain xylitol. Look for products with only peanuts as the main ingredient for safety.
  • If you stick to pure, xylitol-free peanut butter, it can be a safe, occasional treat. Limit the amount and avoid making it a large part of your dog’s diet.

Almond Butter

  • Almond butter is generally safe for dogs if fed in very small amounts. While almonds are not toxic, they are high in fat, which may upset your dog’s stomach. Eating too much can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or even an inflammation of the pancreas called pancreatitis.
  • Choose almond butters that are plain and made without added salt, sugar, or artificial sweeteners. Some almond butters may also contain xylitol, so always read the label carefully. Dogs can have a hard time digesting almonds, so even with plain almond butter, moderation is key.
  • Never use almond butter to hide pills or as a daily treat. A small lick as a reward is all most dogs need.

Other Nut Butters

  • Other nut butters, such as cashew, pistachio, or hazelnut butter, can be riskier. Some nuts, like macadamia nuts and black walnuts, are toxic to dogs even in small amounts. Hazelnut butter is usually not toxic but can be hard for your dog to digest and is often high in sugar or chocolate, especially in spreads like Nutella.
  • Do not feed your dog any nut butters that contain chocolate, raisins, or artificial sweeteners. Always check the full ingredient list before giving your dog any new food. Mixed nut butters should also be avoided, since you may not know all the types of nuts present.
  • If you want to try alternatives to peanut or almond butter, always research the specific nut first. Small amounts of pure nut butters made from dog-safe nuts can be given rarely.

How Much Nuts Can Dogs Eat?

A dog surrounded by various nuts, some safe and some dangerous, with a clear indication of portion sizes for each type of nut

Dogs can have a few types of nuts as an occasional treat. Nuts are high in fat and calories, so giving your dog too much can lead to weight gain or stomach trouble. It is also important to watch for allergies, especially to peanuts.

Moderation and Serving Size

Nuts should only be a small part of your dog’s diet. Even nuts that are safe for dogs, like peanuts and cashews, should be given in moderation. Dogs have a harder time digesting fat than people do. Eating too many nuts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or even pancreas problems.

For most dogs, one or two plain, unsalted nuts is enough. Give nuts as a treat, not as a regular snack or meal. Serving Size Chart:

Dog Size Max Nuts per Treat Session
Small (under 20 lbs) 1 nut
Medium (20-50 lbs) 2 nuts
Large (over 50 lbs) 2-3 nuts

Always chop up larger nuts to lower the risk of choking. Skip nuts that are salted, flavored, or coated. For more information, check which nuts are safe and which are risky through expert advice, like the guidelines at the American Kennel Club.

Recognizing Peanut Allergies

Dogs can have peanut allergies, though it is less common than in humans. Signs of an allergy may show up quickly and can include:

  • Itching or redness
  • Swelling around the mouth or face
  • Hives or bumps on the skin
  • Stomach upset (vomiting or diarrhea)
  • Trouble breathing

Watch closely the first time you offer your dog any kind of nut, especially peanuts or nut butters. If you see any of these reactions, stop giving nuts and call your vet. Even if the reaction seems small, continued feeding can make it worse. Always avoid nuts that are mixed with xylitol, chocolate, or raisins, as these are dangerous for dogs. For a more in-depth look at allergies and safe nut choices, visit PetMD’s dog nutrition guide.