Your Nutty Buddy: Can My Dog Eat Nuts?
Dogs and peanut butter go hand. They love it and it is most pets owners’ go-to ingredient in filling a Kong toy or getting pets to swallow medicine. But many wonder what kinds of nuts they can safely give their dogs. Nuts can be a protein packed nutritious snack for us, and sometimes, in moderation, for our four-legged friends.
If your dog is nuts about nuts, you may ask, can my dog eat nuts? You’re in luck! The team at Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates is here to give you the lowdown on nuts that are safe and those that can cause harm.
What’s the Scoop on Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are generally not toxic to dogs, except for macadamia nuts, but nuts are high in fat.
The good fats and protein humans get out of snacking on nuts can pack on the pounds, if we overindulge. The same applies to our dogs. Because of this, nuts should be used in tiny amounts when it comes to your pet. The high-fat nut is also one of the foods that are linked to pancreatitis in dogs, a painful and serious inflammation of the pancreas.
Nuts, too, are not easily digestible for dogs. They can cause gastrointestinal distress and a GI obstruction if your pet eats one too many, or your dog is small.
Seeds are another popular choice in adding Omega-3 fatty acids as well as other nutritious vitamins and minerals.
Ground chia, flax, pumpkin, and sunflowers seeds are all good ingredients to boost your pet’s normal diet. However, any fruit pit, such as those from peaches and apricots, contain toxins (such as arsenic), and should be avoided.
Safer Nuts
If you opt to give your Fido friend nuts, stick to peanuts or cashews in small quantities. Just a few will give your dog an added snack without setting them up for digestive problems.
It is also vitally important to note that these butters can contain Xylitol, a toxic additive that is found in sugar-free products, like candies, gum, and yes, peanut or cashew butter. Be sure to check the nut butter’s ingredient list, especially if the product is labeled as sugar-free or low fat.
Be careful when choosing a nut spread to share with your pup. Many pet owners like to use them in Kong and other fillable chew toys. Other options are mashed fruit and fillable topping made especially for these products, that are flavored like chicken or peanut butter.
Ah Nuts! My Dog Ate Nuts!!
If your dog got into some nuts, figure out what they ate and approximately how much. Some pets don’t have any problems, except maybe a bit of indigestion. Signs of more serious nut toxicity or other issues include:
- Unable to pass stool
- Bloated abdomen (emergency)
- Gagging, choking
- Depression
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Tremors
- Seizure
Please call us if you suspect your pet has nut toxicity or an obstruction in the GI tract.
The Redux: Can My Dog Eat Nuts?
In short, while nuts may not be a serious danger for your dog, they can cause harm. Like any fatty food, your pet would be better off without eating them. But the occasional dollop of peanut butter or an almond isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
If you would like more information about dogs and nuts, or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us.