Nuts and seeds
Can dogs eat nuts and seeds?
Some nuts are toxic, others simply too fatty. Includes peanut butter.
At a glance
| Food | Verdict | In short |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut | In moderation | Yes, a small piece of fresh coconut flesh with the shell removed usually won't hurt a dog. Because of the high fat content and the risk of injury from the hard shell, though, coconut should stay an occasional treat. |
| Peanut butter | In moderation | Yes, peanut butter without xylitol, added sugar, or salt is a popular, safe treat for dogs in small amounts. Always check the label carefully, since some “light” or high-protein versions contain xylitol, which is deadly to dogs. |
| Peanuts | In moderation | Yes, raw or roasted unsalted peanuts without the shell are fine for dogs in small amounts. Shells, salted peanuts, and flavored varieties aren't recommended because of the risk of a blocked gut and too much sodium. |
| Almonds | No | No, almonds aren't recommended for dogs. They're not toxic the way macadamia nuts are, but dogs digest them poorly, a whole nut poses a choking risk, and the high fat content can trigger pancreatitis. |
| Walnuts | No | No, walnuts aren't recommended for dogs. They're very high in fat and can trigger pancreatitis, and mouldy or fallen walnuts contain mycotoxins that cause tremors and seizures. |
In detail
Can dogs eat coconut?
Yes, a small piece of fresh coconut flesh with the shell removed usually won't hurt a dog. Because of the high fat content and the risk of injury from the hard shell, though, coconut should stay an occasional treat.
Can dogs eat peanut butter?
Yes, peanut butter without xylitol, added sugar, or salt is a popular, safe treat for dogs in small amounts. Always check the label carefully, since some “light” or high-protein versions contain xylitol, which is deadly to dogs.
Can dogs eat peanuts?
Yes, raw or roasted unsalted peanuts without the shell are fine for dogs in small amounts. Shells, salted peanuts, and flavored varieties aren't recommended because of the risk of a blocked gut and too much sodium.
Can dogs eat almonds?
No, almonds aren't recommended for dogs. They're not toxic the way macadamia nuts are, but dogs digest them poorly, a whole nut poses a choking risk, and the high fat content can trigger pancreatitis.
Can dogs eat walnuts?
No, walnuts aren't recommended for dogs. They're very high in fat and can trigger pancreatitis, and mouldy or fallen walnuts contain mycotoxins that cause tremors and seizures.
Key: Yes, safe · Yes, in moderation · No, better avoided · Dangerous, never.