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Pawrennial

Can dogs eat pistachios?

Only with care.

Pistachios aren't toxic to dogs, but they're a poor treat. They're high in fat, usually salted, the shells can cause choking or a blockage, and moldy nuts can contain aflatoxin. A dropped nut or two is rarely a problem, but don't share them.

Why pistachios aren't a good treat

  • Fat: like most nuts, pistachios are very fatty, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes pancreatitis
  • Salt: most are salted or flavored, and too much salt is harmful to dogs
  • Shells: hard shells can cause choking or get stuck in the gut
  • Mold: nuts can carry aflatoxin, a mold toxin that can damage the liver, even without visible mold

My dog ate pistachios. What now?

One or two shelled pistachios are unlikely to cause trouble. Call your vet if your dog ate a lot, ate shells, ate salted or flavored nuts, or shows vomiting, diarrhea, belly pain, tiredness, or yellow gums or eyes.

Other nuts

Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs and should never be given. Walnuts and pecans can carry mold toxins and are best avoided. Plain, unsalted peanuts and xylitol-free peanut butter are the safest choice in small amounts.

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Frequently asked questions

Are pistachio shells dangerous for dogs?

Yes. Shells are hard and sharp-edged, and can cause choking, injure the mouth or throat, or block the gut. Call your vet if your dog ate a lot of shells.

Can dogs eat pistachio ice cream?

No. It's high in sugar and fat, dairy can upset dogs' stomachs, and some sugar-free ice creams contain xylitol.

Can pistachios cause pancreatitis in dogs?

A large amount of any fatty food, including nuts, can trigger pancreatitis in some dogs. Signs include vomiting, belly pain, and not eating. See your vet if you notice them.

Sources

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