Home

>

Dog

>

Food & Nutrition

>

Can Dogs Eat Almonds?

Can Dogs Eat Almonds? 

Updated on July 18, 2024
Reviewer Profile Photo
Reviewed by Petco’s Animal Care
Education and Compliance (ACE) Team

“Can my dog eat almonds?” you may be asking yourself. The answer is no. Almonds—like many other nuts—contain many toxins that aren’t harmful to people but can be particularly detrimental to dogs when consumed in large doses. Unprocessed bitter almonds are the most dangerous for dogs—consuming as few as seven of them can be fatal. Processed almonds, on the other hand, which are also the most popular kind for snacking, are far less harmful. If your dog accidentally gets their paws on them, the result won’t likely be fatal, but it could still compromise their health. If your dog consumes almonds and has an adverse reaction, take your dog to the vet or emergency clinic and call pet poison control immediately.  

How many almonds can kill a dog?

Unprocessed bitter almonds are the most dangerous for dogs—consuming as few as seven of them can be fatal. Processed almonds, on the other hand, which are also the most popular kind for snacking, are far less harmful. If your dog accidentally gets their paws on them, the result won’t likely be fatal, but it could still compromise their health. If your dog consumes almonds and has an adverse reaction, take your dog to the vet or emergency clinic and call pet poison control immediately.  

Types of almonds and dogs

Roasted almonds

Roasting almonds makes them crunchier, which can make them harder for your dog to swallow and digest. And while you can roast these nuts plainly, many varieties use unhealthy oils or butter during the roasting process—not to mention the potentially toxic seasonings that are added after.

Salted almonds

Salt is never healthy for your dog, and too much can cause salt toxicity and other big problems for your dog’s wellness.

Raw almonds

Truly raw almonds aren’t that common in the US since California passed a law requiring their almond producers to pasteurize these nuts before sale. If your dog does manage to eat some raw almonds, they’re likely to experience gastrointestinal distress and, in rare cases, Salmonella poisoning.

Bitter almonds

Bitter almonds aren’t that common either because they contain much higher levels of cyanide than sweet almonds. This makes even a handful of bitter almonds potentially fatal for dogs and human children.

Why are almonds bad for dogs? 

While not all nuts are toxic to dogs, they should never be fed as a treat. Consuming nuts can cause your dog severe gastrointestinal distress, bladder or kidney stones, or aflatoxin poisoning. They’re also a choking hazard. While allergic reactions to almonds are uncommon in dogs, they have occurred. Be particularly careful with seasoned almonds, as some of the ingredients could be toxic, and the high salt levels can lead to water retention or salt toxicity.

Signs of almond poisoning in dogs  

If your dog consumes almonds of any type, be on the lookout for these signs of distress. Note that almonds are particularly susceptible to a mold called aspergillus that can cause aflatoxin poisoning. Call poison control and take your pet to the vet or emergency clinic immediately if they exhibit any of the following:   

  • Vomiting   
  • Diarrhea   
  • Gas   
  • Lethargy   
  • Loss of appetite   
  • Discomfort 
  • Jaundice

What to do if your dog ate almonds 

Keeping your dog away from everything that’s bad for them can be challenging. While eating a couple of almonds is not likely to be fatal and there’s usually no need to panic, watch your dog very carefully for indications of intestinal trouble or obstructed breathing. Seek immediate veterinary care and call the pet poison control hotline if you notice any of the symptoms above.   

How to prevent your dog from eating almonds  

We understand that small foods like almonds and peanuts can easily slip through your fingers or slide off the edge of a table or countertop. Keep an eye on the area where you are eating and clean up any and all remnants of your snack. If your dog is particularly food curious, you may want to isolate them in another room while you enjoy a couple of handfuls of almonds. Store your nut supply in well-sealed containers on higher shelves that your pet can’t reach.

Filed Under

Sponsored