We are nuts for dogs! Our canine companions are our best buddies, which means we like to share snacks, treats, and we sneak the occasional human food to them. It’s common knowledge that chocolate is bad for them, but nuts are one of those areas of confusion. Some are great. They’re healthy, delicious, and add flavor to homemade dog treats. We can even call some of them vet-approved. Other nuts are just plain toxic. Learn the difference and find out what to do when our fur-friend ingests the wrong nut.
When in doubt, choose treats and dog foods that are nut- and seed-free. EcoTreats are safe, vet-approved, all-natural, premium dog treats. EcoTreats wild-caught sockeye salmon filet bits are 100% USA-sourced from the Pacific Northwest. Plus, they’re low-calorie, so they’re a guilt-free snack or training tool dog’s can’t resist.
Be Nut Wise
Even though some nuts may be safe, be sure to choose unsalted. And know that just because nuts are safe, or nontoxic, there are a few things to consider. Butter, milk, and other forms of the nut may not be safe. For example, many peanut butter brands use an artificial sweetener called xylitol, which is one of the most toxic substances a dog can eat. It causes liver failure and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Be smart and remember that chocolate covered nuts are toxic because of the chocolate. And nuts that are dipped in anything, such as espresso, won’t be good for Fido.
Also, quantity matters. Just because some nuts are safe, doesn’t mean Fido won’t get sick if given too many of them.
Some nuts are just plain toxic. Others are just high enough in fat content that they can irritate Fido’s digestive system, causing diarrhea, vomiting, flatulence, and even intestinal blockages. Always use common sense. If a pup has some digestive discomfort, we should stop giving Fido those nuts (or those foods with nuts in the ingredients). If symptoms persist for more than a few hours or are extreme, head to the vet immediately.
Nuts that are considered okay for dogs
- Almonds
- Cashews
- Hazelnuts
- Peanuts
- Roasted Chestnuts
Nuts to stay away from
- Brazil nuts
- Macadamia nuts
- Pistachios
- Pecans
- Pine nuts
- Walnuts
What about seeds?
Similar to nuts, some seeds are toxic, and others are not. All seeds should be eaten in moderation. For example, sunflower seeds can be a summer treat for dogs and their guardians. The only thing to be careful of is choosing unsalted seeds, and remembering the shell needs to be removed before Fido can have them. Most fruit seeds are also okay, including cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon seeds. Fruit pits, however, are definitely not okay. Cherry seeds, peach, nectarine, plum, and apricot pits all contain strychnine, which is toxic for humans and dogs, alike. There may not be much, but it’s enough to cause illness in dogs, who are more sensitive than humans to the poison.
Nuts are tasty for humans and dogs. However, they do come with their risks. Some are just plain toxic. Others are safe, but only in moderation. Because of their high-fat content, they often cause digestive distress. Even though many foods that contain nuts that are safe for dogs, like peanut butter, we have to double check the ingredients for other toxic additives. The same goes for seeds. Keep these best practices in mind, and Fido will enjoy many long, happy, tasty days ahead.
Further Reading:
- “Seeds You Can Share With Your Dog,” Animal Wellness Magazine
- “Animal Poison Control Alert: Nuts That Are Toxic To Dogs,” ASPCA
- “Can Dogs Eat Nuts?” American Kennel Club
