Nuts and seeds have numerous health benefits for people. Packed with nutrients like iron, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids, they can lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation and promote heart health. In addition, nuts and seeds contain fiber, which creates a feeling of fullness and helps move food through the digestive system.
As a pet parent, you may wonder, can dogs eat nuts and seeds, too? The answer is yes and no. Although nuts and seeds can be healthy for dogs, they can also pose serious health risks. Learning about the pros and cons of nuts and seeds can help you make good dietary choices for your dog.
Feeding Your Pet Nuts
With a few exceptions (described below), nuts are generally non toxic to dogs. However, they can cause uncomfortable digestive problems. For example, nuts are high in fat, which, if ingested in large amounts, can cause pancreatitis. Symptoms of pancreatitis include vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Pancreatitis in dogs is a serious condition that requires veterinary treatment.
Specific types of nuts can make dogs sick in different ways: * Flavored almonds and peanuts can cause stomach irritation and intestinal distress. * Small nuts, such as almonds, cashews and pumpkin seeds, can cause intestinal obstructions and even be choking hazards. * Shelled pecans can damage the gastrointestinal tract lining.
Nuts That are Toxic to Pets
Macadamia nuts are ultra-toxic to dogs. Symptoms of toxicity typically appear within 12 hours of ingestion and include weakness, depression, tremors and hyperthermia.
Old and moldy walnuts are also very toxic to dogs. The hull of a moldy walnut has a neurotoxin called penitrem A, which can cause tremors and seizures. Black walnuts are also extremely toxic to dogs, causing neurologic symptoms and vomiting.
Raw cashews may contain toxins that can sicken dogs. Other toxic nuts to dogs include pistachios and hickory nuts, both of which have toxins that cause neurologic symptoms.
In addition to these symptoms, dogs who eat toxic nuts may also have bloody or blackened stools, orange-colored urine or difficulty walking. Call your veterinarian immediately if your dog has any of these signs after eating toxic nuts.
How to Give Your Pet Nuts
Feed nontoxic nuts only in very small amounts as an occasional treat. Soak flavored nuts overnight to remove the flavor. Roast raw cashews to destroy the toxins. For peanuts, considering giving your dog high-quality peanut butter that does not contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener which is toxic to dogs.
Feeding Your Pet Seeds
Sunflower, chia and flax seeds are among the healthy seed options for dogs. Like nuts, though, they are high in fat. Also, seeds aren’t very digestible in dogs. Below are a few suggestions for feeding seeds to your dog:
- Sunflower seeds: Give your dog unsalted sunflower seeds and remove the shells. Feed a few raw seeds as a special treat.
- Chia seeds: Soak the seeds in water to prevent them from expanding in your dog’s stomach. Because chia seeds form a smooth gel when in water, the water-soaked seeds can be easily mixed in with food.
- Flax seeds: You can add whole or ground flax seeds to your dog’s food. Ground flax seeds can spoil quickly, so refrigerate them in an airtight container to extend their shelf life.
In general, seeds should be fed only in small amounts.
Overall, nuts and seeds can be good for your dog. However, there are notable exceptions. Before offering these foods to your dog, consult with your veterinarian to discuss appropriateness and amounts. Additionally, call your veterinarian immediately if your dog eats a toxic nut or appears unwell after eating nuts or seeds.