Nuts & Seeds — Safe for Dogs?

21 food guides reviewed — find out which nuts & seeds are safe, risky, or toxic for dogs.

7
Safe
11
Caution
3
Not Safe

Almonds

Caution

nut

Almonds are not chemically toxic to dogs but are hard to digest and present a blockage and choking risk. Salted or flavored almonds add sodium risk. Not recommended but not in the same danger category as truly toxic foods.

Cashews

Caution

nut

Plain unsalted cashews are safe for dogs in very small amounts. They are high in fat and calories so should only be an occasional treat.

Chia Seeds

Safe

seed

Chia seeds are safe for dogs in small amounts and contain omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein.

Flaxseeds

Safe

seed

Ground flaxseeds are safe for dogs and an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. They support coat health and digestion.

Hemp Seeds

Safe

seed

Hemp seeds are safe for dogs. They contain no THC and provide excellent nutrition including all essential amino acids.

How Much Peanut Butter for Dogs

Caution

nut

Xylitol-free peanut butter is safe for dogs but calorie density means strict portion control is essential to prevent weight gain.

Macadamia Nuts

Not Safe

nut

Macadamia nuts are highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause serious neurological symptoms. The toxic compound is unknown.

Natural Peanut Butter

Caution

nut

Natural peanut butter with just peanuts and salt is safer than processed varieties but must still be checked for xylitol. The salt content can be a concern.

Peanut Butter

Caution

nut

Peanut butter can be a great treat for dogs but MUST be xylitol-free. Always check the label before feeding.

Peanut Butter Frozen

Caution

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Frozen xylitol-free peanut butter is safe and a great enrichment activity. Popular for Kong stuffing and lick mats.

Peanut Butter Kong

Caution

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Using xylitol-free peanut butter in Kong toys is safe and a popular enrichment activity. Always verify the peanut butter is xylitol-free before use.

Peanut butter with Xylitol

Not Safe

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Peanut butter containing xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs. Xylitol is increasingly added as a sugar substitute to peanut butter brands.

Peanuts

Caution

nut

Unsalted plain peanuts are safe for dogs in small amounts. Salted or flavoured peanuts should be avoided.

Peanuts roasted

Caution

nut

Dry roasted peanuts without salt are safe for dogs in small amounts. Salted roasted peanuts should be avoided.

Pumpkin Seeds

Safe

seed

Plain roasted pumpkin seeds are safe for dogs and have natural anti-parasitic properties. They can help expel intestinal worms.

Pumpkin Seeds Dogs

Safe

seed

Plain roasted pumpkin seeds are safe and beneficial for dogs. They have natural deworming properties and are rich in nutrients.

Pumpkin Seeds for Puppies

Safe

seed

Ground pumpkin seeds are safe for puppies and provide natural antiparasitic support during the high-exposure early months.

Puppies Pumpkin Seeds

Caution

seed

Ground pumpkin seeds are safe for puppies in very small amounts. The antiparasitic properties may be beneficial for puppies exposed to parasites.

Sesame Seeds

Safe

seed

Plain sesame seeds are safe for dogs in small amounts. They contain healthy fats and minerals but should only be an occasional sprinkle.

Sunflower Seeds

Caution

seed

Plain shelled sunflower seeds are safe for dogs in small amounts. Salted varieties should be avoided and shells can cause intestinal issues.

Walnuts

Not Safe

nut

Walnuts are not safe for dogs. Black walnuts are highly toxic and even English walnuts can cause gastrointestinal issues and are prone to mold.