Get rates for your pet:

See My Rates »
Retrieve a Saved Quote

Can Dogs Eat Almonds?

By Colleen Williams
published: July 16, 2018 - updated: April 25, 2022 • 1 min. read
bowl of almonds

While almonds aren’t poisonous, they aren’t recommended for dogs to eat. Crunchy and healthy, almonds are an easy-to-grab snack for humans. They are a source of vitamin E, magnesium, and protein as well as healthy fats. While snacking, you may think: what’s the harm in tossing a few aside for my pup?

Dangers of Eating Almonds

Although dogs may seem to love the taste and they are non-toxic, you should not feed your dog almonds because they are not easily digested and may cause gastric intestinal distress. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, gas, and loss of appetite. Almonds also pose another serious problem as they can obstruct your dog’s windpipe, esophagus, and intestines – all of which can be fatal if not treated. Almonds are also high in fat, which means there’s a risk of developing pancreatitis.

vet-and-pets-01

Nuts to avoid giving your dog:

  • Almonds
  • Pistachios
  • Pecans
  • Macadamia
  • Walnuts
  • Hickory nuts

All of the listed above are dangerous nuts to feed dogs. Overall, a good rule of paw is to avoid giving your dog whole nuts entirely. If your dog has consumed a large number of almonds – call your vet or local emergency clinic for professional advice.

Curious about what is okay and not okay for your dog to eat? Check out our comprehensive guide on what human foods are safe and not safe for dogs

colleen williams
By Colleen Williams

Over the past decade, Colleen has written about health, wellness, beauty, and even pets for The New York Times, The Cut, Refinery29, xoVain, Healthy Paws Pet Insurance, and Seattle Met Magazine, as well as many beauty brands. She has a BFA in Art History from the University of New Mexico and an AAS in Fashion Design from Parsons School of Design in New York.

Show more