Can Dogs Eat Almonds and Walnuts? A Pet Parent’s Guide to Safe Snacking

It’s a lazy Saturday morning, and you’re curled up on the couch, enjoying a bowl of mixed nuts—crunchy almonds and rich walnuts, your favorite guilt-free snack. Out of nowhere, your dog, Bella, plops down beside you, tail wagging, nose twitching, and those big, soulful eyes locked on your hand. “Just one tiny piece won’t hurt, right?” you think. But before you toss her a nut, you pause. Are almonds and walnuts safe for dogs? Could sharing your snack land Bella in the vet’s office, or is it harmless fun?

If you’ve ever wondered whether dogs can eat almonds and walnuts, you’re not alone. As pet parents, we love spoiling our furry friends, but when it comes to human foods, not everything that’s healthy for us is safe for them. Nuts, in particular, are a gray area—some are toxic, others are risky, and a few are safe in moderation. In this guide, we’ll break down the facts about almonds and walnuts, including their potential benefits, hidden risks, and whether they have a place in your dog’s diet.

can dogs eat almonds and walnuts

Can Dogs Eat Almonds and Walnuts? The Short Answer
Potential Benefits of Almonds and Walnuts for Dogs
Risks of Feeding Almonds and Walnuts to Dogs
How Much (If Any) Almonds and Walnuts Can Dogs Safely Eat?
Healthier Alternatives to Almonds and Walnuts for Dogs
FAQ: Common Questions About Dogs and Nuts
Conclusion: Prioritize Your Dog’s Safety

Can Dogs Eat Almonds and Walnuts? The Short Answer

Let’s cut to the chase: Almonds and walnuts are not strictly toxic to dogs, but they come with significant risks that make them far from ideal snacks.

Almonds: While sweet almonds (the kind sold in stores) aren’t toxic, they’re hard to digest, high in fat, and pose a choking hazard—especially for small dogs or those who gulp their food. Bitter almonds (rarely sold commercially) contain cyanide, which is toxic, but even sweet almonds can cause stomach upset or more serious issues in large amounts.
Walnuts: English walnuts (the most common type) are less risky than black walnuts, but they’re still high in fat and can harbor mold (which produces harmful toxins). Black walnuts, however, are toxic to dogs—even small amounts can cause seizures or neurological issues.

In short: It’s best to avoid feeding almonds and walnuts to your dog. If you do choose to share, it should be in tiny, occasional portions, and only after consulting your vet.

Potential Benefits of Almonds and Walnuts for Dogs

Nuts are packed with nutrients for humans, so it’s natural to wonder if they offer any benefits for dogs. Let’s break down what almonds and walnuts contain—and whether those nutrients actually help your pup.

Almonds: Nutrient-Dense, but Not Necessary

Almonds are rich in:

Healthy fats: Monounsaturated fats, which support heart health in humans. For dogs, small amounts may help with coat health, but their diet already includes fats from high-quality dog food.
Protein: A 1-ounce serving has about 6 grams of protein, which helps build muscle. Again, commercial dog food is formulated to meet your dog’s protein needs.
Vitamin E: An antioxidant that supports skin, coat, and immune health. Dogs need vitamin E, but most dog foods include it in balanced amounts.
Fiber: Aids digestion. However, too much fiber can cause diarrhea or constipation in dogs.
Potassium: Supports muscle and nerve function. Dogs get potassium from sources like bananas or sweet potatoes, which are safer than almonds.

Walnuts: Omega-3s and More, but High Risk

Walnuts (especially English walnuts) contain:

Omega-3 fatty acids: These support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve coat shine. However, dogs can get omega-3s from safer sources like salmon, sardines, or flaxseed.
Magnesium: Important for bone health and energy production. Again, dog food is fortified with magnesium.
Antioxidants: Help fight free radicals. But blueberries, spinach, and carrots are safer, antioxidant-rich alternatives.

The bottom line: While almonds and walnuts have nutrients that could benefit dogs, they’re not necessary. Your dog’s regular diet is already balanced to provide all the vitamins, minerals, and fats they need. Nuts are an “extra” that comes with more risks than rewards.

Risks of Feeding Almonds and Walnuts to Dogs

The risks of almonds and walnuts for dogs far outweigh any potential benefits. Let’s dive into the most serious dangers:

1. Choking and Intestinal Blockages

Almonds are hard, round, and small—perfect for getting stuck in a dog’s throat, especially if they’re not chewed properly. Small dogs (like Chihuahuas or Yorkies) are at higher risk, but even medium or large dogs who gulp food can choke.

Walnuts, while larger, have a tough, irregular shape that can also cause choking. Additionally, broken walnut shells (if not removed) are sharp and can tear the esophagus or intestines, leading to blockages—a life-threatening emergency requiring surgery.

2. High Fat Content and Pancreatitis

Both almonds and walnuts are extremely high in fat (almonds: ~49% fat; walnuts: ~65% fat). Dogs’ bodies aren’t designed to process large amounts of fat quickly, which can trigger pancreatitis—an inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Pancreatitis is painful, expensive to treat, and can be fatal if severe.

3. Toxicity (Especially in Walnuts)

Black walnuts: These are highly toxic to dogs. They contain a mold (Penicillium spp.) that produces “tremorgenic mycotoxins,” which attack the nervous system. Even a small amount can cause tremors, seizures, vomiting, or hyperthermia. If you have black walnut trees in your yard, keep your dog away from fallen nuts!
Bitter almonds: Most almonds sold in stores are “sweet almonds,” but bitter almonds (used in some baking or liqueurs) contain amygdalin, which breaks down into cyanide when ingested. Just a few bitter almonds can poison a small dog, causing difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, or collapse.

4. Added Ingredients (Salt, Sugar, Spices)

Most store-bought nuts are seasoned—salted, honey-roasted, or flavored with garlic, onion, or cinnamon. Salt can lead to sodium ion poisoning in dogs (symptoms: excessive thirst, urination, vomiting, seizures). Garlic and onion are toxic to dogs, damaging red blood cells. Sugar contributes to obesity and dental issues. Always avoid seasoned nuts!

5. Digestive Upset

Even plain, unsalted almonds and walnuts can cause stomach issues. Dogs lack the enzymes to fully digest nuts, leading to gas, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation—especially if they eat more than a tiny bite.

How Much (If Any) Almonds and Walnuts Can Dogs Safely Eat?

If, after weighing the risks, you still want to share a tiny piece of almond or walnut with your dog (e.g., as a rare treat), follow these strict guidelines:

Key Rules for Feeding Almonds

Only sweet almonds: Avoid bitter almonds entirely.
Plain, unsalted, unseasoned: No salt, sugar, spices, or coatings.
Portion size:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 almond max (chopped into tiny pieces to reduce choking risk).
- Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 1–2 almonds (chopped).
- Large dogs (50+ lbs): 2–3 almonds (chopped).
Frequency: Once every 1–2 weeks at most. Nuts should never replace regular meals or healthy treats.

Key Rules for Feeding Walnuts

Only English walnuts: Never feed black walnuts.
Check for mold: Discard any walnuts that look discolored, musty, or have visible mold.
Remove the shell: Sharp shells can cut your dog’s mouth or cause blockages.
Portion size:
- Small dogs: ¼ of a walnut (chopped).
- Medium dogs: ½ of a walnut (chopped).
- Large dogs: 1 walnut (chopped).
Frequency: Once every 2–3 weeks at most.

Important Notes

Monitor your dog: After feeding a nut, watch for signs of choking, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If any occur, contact your vet immediately.
Skip if your dog has health issues: Dogs with pancreatitis, obesity, diabetes, or digestive problems should never eat nuts.
Consult your vet first: Especially if your dog is a puppy, senior, or has underlying health conditions.

Healthier Alternatives to Almonds and Walnuts for Dogs

Instead of risking nuts, opt for these safe, nutrient-packed treats that dogs love:

1. Blueberries

Low in calories, high in antioxidants (vitamin C, E), and great for brain health. Dogs go crazy for their sweet, juicy crunch!

2. Carrots

Crunchy, low-calorie, and packed with vitamin A (good for eyes and skin). They also help clean teeth!

3. Pumpkin (Plain, Cooked)

Rich in fiber (aids digestion) and beta-carotene (supports immune health). Serve a tablespoon or two mixed into food.

4. Apples (No Seeds)

Crunchy, sweet, and full of fiber and vitamin C. Remove seeds (they contain trace cyanide) and core first.

5. Sweet Potato (Plain, Cooked)

Loaded with vitamins A, C, and fiber. Mash a small spoonful or slice into chewy “fries” (baked, not fried).

6. Green Beans (Steamed or Raw)

Low in calories, high in fiber, and a great crunch. Perfect for dogs watching their weight!

These alternatives are safer, easier to digest, and just as tasty (in your dog’s opinion!).

FAQ: Common Questions About Dogs and Nuts

Q: Can puppies eat almonds or walnuts?

A: No. Puppies have sensitive digestive systems and are more prone to choking. Their diets should focus on nutrient-dense puppy food, not nuts.

Q: My dog ate a handful of almonds/walnuts—what should I do?

A: Contact your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) immediately. Watch for symptoms of pancreatitis (vomiting, abdominal pain), choking, or digestive upset.

Q: Are almond butter or walnut butter safe for dogs?

A: Plain, unsalted almond butter (no xylitol!) is safer than whole almonds (since it’s easier to digest), but it’s still high in fat. Offer ¼–½ teaspoon max (for small/medium dogs) as a rare treat. Avoid walnut butter—risk of mold or toxins is still present.

Q: Are other nuts safe for dogs?

A: Some nuts are better than others, but none are “safe” in large amounts:

Peanuts: Safe in moderation (plain, unsalted); avoid peanut butter with xylitol.
Cashews: High in fat, but a tiny piece (1–2 for large dogs) is okay occasionally.
Macadamia nuts: Toxic—even a few cause weakness, vomiting, or hyperthermia.
Pistachios: High in fat and salt; avoid.

Q: Can dogs eat nuts from trail mix?

A: No! Trail mix often contains toxic nuts (macadamia), chocolate, raisins (toxic), or added sugar/salt.

Conclusion: Prioritize Your Dog’s Safety

At the end of the day, almonds and walnuts aren’t worth the risk for most dogs. While they’re not toxic (in small, plain forms), the choking hazard, high fat content, and potential for digestive upset or pancreatitis make them a poor choice for treats. Your dog’s regular diet already provides all the nutrients they need—nuts are an unnecessary indulgence.

If you want to spoil your furry friend, stick to safer alternatives like blueberries, carrots, or pumpkin. And when in doubt, always consult your vet before introducing new foods. After all, your dog’s health and happiness are worth more than a tiny bite of nut!

Sources:

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). “Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants.”
Pet Poison Helpline. “Nuts.”
VCA Hospitals. “Pancreatitis in Dogs.”
American Kennel Club (AKC). “Human Foods Dogs Can and Can’t Eat.”