Almonds are a great snack for humans. But, can dogs eat almonds? The answer is no. While almonds might not be as as toxic as some nuts, they are one of those foods that dogs can’t easily digest.
Why Almonds Are Bad for Dogs
While some dogs might love the taste of almonds, consuming them can cause gastric intestinal distress. If your dog accidentally eats a few, be on the lookout for these symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- General discomfort
Almonds, like most nuts, are high in fat and can put your dog at risk of developing pancreatitis. It’s a serious condition that requires the attention of your veterinarian.
This snack also poses another dangerous problem: obstruction. Almonds can block your dog’s esophagus, intestines, or windpipe, especially in small breeds. These obstructions can be fatal if not treated, and they occasionally require surgery.
Flavored almonds come with unique risks. The spices and flavorings can irritate your dog’s stomach, while the salt in the seasoning can lead to water retention and salt toxicity if consumed in large quantities.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Almonds
If your dog consumes one or two almonds, don’t panic. Instead, watch them carefully for signs of or obstruction. If your dog devours more than a few almonds, call your veterinarian or local emergency veterinarian for professional advice.
Here at the AKC, we field many queries from anxious dog owners about what is and isn’t safe for their canine companions to eat. Questions range from the obvious (“Can dogs eat steak bones?”) to the trendy (“Can dogs eat quinoa?”) Check out more “Can dogs eat…” articles on AKC.org to see what other foods could be harmful to your dog, including cherries, avocados, and onions.