Can Dogs Eat Nuts?

My House Rule: No.

🚫 Nuts That Are Bad for Dogs (and Why)

Even though some nuts are technically “non-toxic,” most come with risks that outweigh any reward. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common ones and why they’re best left out of your dog’s bowl:

❌ Macadamia Nuts
Among the most dangerous nuts for dogs — even a small handful can cause vomiting, weakness, tremors, and fever. The exact toxin isn’t known, but macadamias can affect the nervous system and require immediate veterinary care.

❌ Walnuts
High in fat and prone to mold, walnuts can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Moldy walnuts may contain tremorgenic mycotoxins, which can trigger seizures.

❌ Pecans
Just like walnuts, pecans can grow mold that produces toxins harmful to the liver and nervous system. Their size and texture also make them a choking hazard, especially for small dogs.

❌ Pistachios
Not technically toxic but definitely risky. Their high fat content can cause pancreatitis, and the shells can splinter or lodge in the intestines. Salted pistachios are especially harmful due to excess sodium.

❌ Almonds
Hard, dense, and difficult to digest — almonds can cause choking or intestinal blockages. Flavored or salted varieties are even worse for dogs’ kidneys and hearts.

❌ Hazelnuts
Although not toxic, hazelnuts are just the right size to become a choking hazard or obstruction in small dogs. Their fat content can also lead to pancreatitis if eaten regularly.

❌ Brazil Nuts
These are extremely high in fat, which can lead to digestive upset and inflammation of the pancreas. Just one nut can contain as much fat as a day’s worth of calories for a small dog.

❌ Hickory Nuts
Another mold-prone nut, hickories can contain tremorgenic mycotoxins. They’re also large enough to cause choking or intestinal blockage.

Safer Treat Alternatives I Use Instead

• Dog-safe peanut butter made for dogs (xylitol-free)
  Buddy Budder is made in the USA with simple ingredients and no xylitol, palm oil, or added sugar/salt. Try all the fun flavors beyond classic peanut butter — think banana, pumpkin, coconut, and honey blends.
• Dehydrated sweet-potato chews
  A Better Treat has developed goodness using a single ingredient. These plant-based chewy slices are naturally rich in fiber and beta-carotene, which can support digestion and eye health while giving dogs a satisfying, longer chew without animal proteins or added fillers.
  • How to serve
    Choose a size or thickness that matches your dog’s chewing style. For seniors or soft-mouth chewers, briefly soak a piece in warm water to soften it. Always supervise your dog and provide fresh water. Store in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming too hard. Break larger pieces into small “jackpot” bites for post-walk decompression on the mat, or tuck a strip into a snuffle mat to extend the sniff-and-chew session.
• Crunchy veggie chips (single-ingredient, light crunch)
  K9 Granola Factory Green Bean Chips provide a simple, satisfying swap when you want to give your dog something crisp without extra calories. Made from just green beans, they deliver a clean crunch with natural fiber and no added salt, oils, or fillers. They’re gentle on digestion, making them ideal for dogs who don’t do well with heavy treats, and perfect for sprinkling into training sessions without overdoing it.
  • How to Serve
    Break chips into pea-sized pieces for frequent rewards. Mix a few into a snuffle mat for a quick scent-work “reset.” Offer fresh water and store the bag sealed to maintain the crunch.
• Stuffable deliciousness
  KONG Classic is my go-to for quiet time and calm focus. For an easy starter, pack it with plain canned pumpkin; freeze for 1–2 hours for a longer-lasting chew. Pumpkin adds fiber and moisture without a sugar rush, and the cold texture helps dogs settle.
  • How to serve
    Choose a KONG that’s large enough so your dog can’t swallow it whole. Layer the filling: mash the pumpkin with a banana and add a few kibble pieces on top for crunch. Avoid sweeteners (especially xylitol), onions, garlic, and excess salt. After Seven and Paige Turner have devoured their treats, I soak them in warm soapy water, then place them on the top rack of the dishwasher.
• All-Natural Long Lasting Hard Chew
  Mighty Paw Yak Cheese Dog Chews aren’t just tasty — their firm texture helps scrape away plaque and tartar as your dog gnaws. Choose the right size for your dog, provide plenty of fresh water, and always supervise. They’re lactose-reduced, odor-light, and much tougher than biscuits, making them a smart alternative to rawhide.
  • How to Serve
    Introduce slowly. Spend 10–15 minutes in the first few sessions to make sure your dog gnaws on the chew instead of cracking it. For seniors or dogs with dental work (like Seven), briefly soak the chew in warm water to soften the surface. Discard small end pieces or microwave them into a safe, crunchy “puff” to prevent choking.

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How I Taught “People Food” Means “Not for You”

This cue keeps snack times peaceful at my home, especially when friends drop by.

1. Set your dog up for success. I start with a positive attitude and get my Pendleton Go to Mat ready.
2. Teach the pattern. Sit down with a small plate. The moment your dog glances at the food, calmly say “People Food.” Pause briefly. If your dog does nothing (no jumping, no creeping), mark that choice with “Yes!” and give a treat on the mat. If they crowd you, stand up and reset; no scolding.
3. Reinforce the correct picture. Repeat short sessions: “People Food” → dog holds position → treat on the mat. You’re paying for ignoring the plate.
4. Add duration and movement. Take a bite, set down the fork, shift in your chair — mark and pay attention to any calm staying. Keep treats small so you can do many reps.
5. Generalize. Practice in different rooms, at a café table, and with guests. If needed, start each new environment with a higher-value dog treat, such as freeze-dried salmon.
6. Keep the promise. “People Food” should always mean they won’t get what you’re eating. Reward with dog-safe options after you’re done to maintain trust.

Craving more heartfelt dog stories and behind-the-scenes moments with Seven and Paige Turner? Visit my companion Substack, Blissdog, and make sure to hit subscribe. Can’t wait to see you there! 🐾