Can Our Dogs Eat Nuts?

The world of nuts is as diverse as the breeds of our domestic dogs.

So you’re right to ask yourself: Which nut is allowed to eat which dog and vice versa?

No nonsense, of course you just want to know if dogs are allowed to eat nuts. The question is not answered that quickly, because there are enough differences here.

In this article we will explain to you which nuts are healthy for dogs and which ones you prefer to keep your paws off. You will also find out how best to feed your dog nuts and what amount is appropriate for your four-legged friend.

Have fun reading and learning!

In a nutshell: Can my dog eat nuts?

Yes, dogs can eat nuts! However, not every nut is suitable for feeding your dog. You should always use natural nuts without salt, smoke or additives. It is also important to always feed nuts in moderation, since most of them are very high in fat and thus promote obesity.

Some nuts are harmless to dogs, while others can lead to symptoms of poisoning and, in the worst case, death of your four-legged friend. So find out exactly what you need to know about each individual nut.

Nuts for dogs – what do I have to consider?

One overarching rule applies to all types of nuts: you should always feed them small amounts!

Nuts are not a staple food for dogs, but some of them can add valuable nutrients to your dog’s diet.

Tip:

If you’re not sure, double-check before feeding your dog nuts. Some nuts, such as macadamia, nutmeg and black walnut, are poisonous to dogs even in small amounts and are therefore absolutely taboo!

In the following we would like to go into more detail about the individual types of nuts.

Can dogs eat almonds?

Yes, dogs can eat almonds but only occasionally and then only the sweet ones!

Bitter almonds contain amygdalin, which releases hydrocyanic acid in your dog’s intestines. Prussic acid inhibits cell respiration in the body and can cause severe poisoning. Visually, the bitter almond cannot be distinguished from its sweet relatives. Here you have to taste for your dog!

If the almond tastes bitter, don’t let your dog eat it!

If you want to learn more about dogs and almonds, check out our article Can dogs eat almonds.

Dog and Brazil nut – does that fit?

That works if you feed the Brazil nut conscientiously! Dogs tolerate Brazil nuts well in small amounts.

However, the Brazil nut is naturally radioactive, which is one reason we should all consume it in moderation. The fat and phosphorus content is also too high for regular consumption. Since Brazil nuts are also very susceptible to mold, you should pay particular attention to quality and a flawless appearance!

Here in our article: Can dogs eat Brazil nuts you can find out more about this topic.

Can dogs eat macadamia nuts?

No, under no circumstances should dogs eat macadamia nuts!

Even the smallest amounts of macadamias are toxic to dogs. Unfortunately, it has not been precisely researched which toxin it is. Based on the symptoms, however, it can be concluded that it is a neurotoxin. Please always keep macadamia nuts out of your dog’s reach!

Would you like to learn more about the combo of dog and macadamia? Then check out our article Macadamia Nuts for Dogs here.

Can my dog ​​eat peanuts?

Yes, dogs can eat peanuts. Peanuts are not toxic to dogs, but they contain a lot of histamine and are also very high in fat. Histamine is known to cause allergies, so you should always start with a small sample if your dog has never eaten peanuts.

Overweight dogs and those suffering from heart or kidney problems should not eat peanuts at all.

You can read more about this in our post on Can Dogs Eat Peanuts.

Peanut butter is taboo for all dogs! You can read about why dogs can’t eat peanut butter in our article on peanut butter for dogs.

Is Nutmeg Good For Dogs?

Is nutmeg good for anyone? Yes okay, in moderation it is harmless for us humans. For dogs it is completely taboo!

Excessive consumption of nutmeg can have serious consequences for both dogs and us humans. The myristicin contained in nutmeg is responsible for the symptoms of poisoning.

That sounds exciting? You can read more about it in our article Can Dogs Eat Nutmeg here!

Can dogs eat cashew nuts?

Yep, dogs can eat cashew nuts.

They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, sodium, iron, zinc and many B vitamins. The small nutrient bomb is well suited as an occasional side dish in the bowl. The emphasis here is on occasional, as the small cashew is also very high in fat and phosphorus.

An excess of phosphorus can lead to kidney problems.

If you want to know more about this: We have already written you a whole article about dogs and cashew nuts.

Acorns for the dog – is that healthy?

Absolutely no way! Acorns are not healthy for dogs but very dangerous!

Even a medium amount of five to ten fruits is enough to kill a medium-sized dog. So always make sure that your dog does not eat acorns on your walks. In addition to the risk of poisoning, swallowing a whole acorn can also lead to an intestinal obstruction.

The reason for the toxicity of the acorn is the tannins or tannins it contains, as you can see in our article Can dogs eat acorns? can read again.

Dog and hazelnut – a good combo?

Oh yes, the combination of dog and hazelnut fits well!

They are considered harmless for dogs and provide them with some important nutrients such as protein, calcium, potassium and plenty of vitamins. Hazelnuts are suitable both as an occasional snack on the walk or just to add to the bowl. In the bowl, the nut is best chopped or pureed, so your dog can use the nutrients better.

Would you like to learn more about the hazelnut? Take a look at our article Can dogs eat hazelnuts?

Can my dog ​​eat walnuts?

Yes, dogs are only allowed to eat walnuts to a limited extent!

They definitely don’t belong in the bowl every day. If you occasionally offer your dog a walnut as a snack, please only use it when it is ripe and shelled. Walnuts are very susceptible to mold. So if you suspect your walnut is infected with a fungus, better discard it—otherwise, the intermediate “Roquefortin C” can be fatal to your dog.

Not so easy with the walnut? That’s why we’ve dedicated an entire article to her: Can dogs eat walnuts.

Can dogs eat coconut?

Yaaaaa to the coconut! Dogs can eat coconut in many forms.

You can feed your dog fresh coconut meat as well as coconut flakes, shredded coconut, coconut water, and coconut oil. Of course, a responsible dog owner always feeds his darling the appropriate amount of coconut – in whatever form.

Dog and coconut, that’s an exciting topic – do you want to know more? Check out our post Can Dogs Eat Coconut here.

Can I feed my dog chestnuts?

Yes, dogs can eat chestnuts!

Boiled and peeled chestnuts are safe for dogs. They are low in fat and contain plenty of B vitamins. You can also find them under the name chestnuts, sweet chestnuts or sweet chestnuts.

Paws away, however, is the word for the horse chestnut. These are not only inedible but even poisonous for dogs!

Poisonous nuts for dogs at a glance

You already know which nuts to feed your dog. Here is a list of those that can be dangerous for your dog:

• macadamia nuts
• Unripe walnuts
• bitter almonds
• black walnut
• nutmeg
• beechnuts
• acorns

Dog and nut – the most important things at a glance

• Nuts – fed in moderation – can supplement your dog’s diet with valuable nutrients.
• Not all nuts are suitable for feeding dogs.
• Nuts can cause allergies, so always start with a small portion to see if your dog can tolerate the nut.
• Processed products like peanut butter and nut biscuits are of course taboo for dogs!
• Always pay attention to organic quality and a flawless appearance of the nut.

Do you still have questions about feeding nuts? Then please write us a comment under this article.