Can Dogs Eat Cashews? A Simple Guide to Treats, Safety & Serving Sizes

Can dogs eat cashews? Yes, but only in small amounts and if they are plain and unsalted. Cashews are not toxic to dogs, but due to their high fat content, they can cause health issues such as weight gain and potentially pancreatitis if consumed in large amounts.

This article explains how to safely give cashews to your dog, which types are okay, and what to avoid. Learn the best tips to keep your pup safe while sharing this crunchy snack.

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Can Dogs Eat Cashews?

Cashews are safe for dogs to eat, but only in small amounts. Even though these nuts aren't poisonous to dogs, giving them too many of them as one the pet parents could be bad for their health. Please make sure you follow the right safety steps if you want to give this snack to your pet.

Cashews Are Safe: If They're Plain and Given Occasionally

If you give cashews to your dog the right way, they can be a healthy treat. Even though they have protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats, you should never feed them to your dog on a regular basis.

• Choose plain cashews: Only give raw or dry-roasted ones without added salt, oil, or flavorings.

• Keep portions small: Even healthy dogs should only get a few pieces.

• Use cashews as treats: Never replace meals with cashews in your dog’s diet.

Risks You Need to Know Before Feeding Cashews

Not every dog is good with nuts, even if some of them really like them. Before you feed cashews, you should know about the risks.

• Watch for choking hazards: Especially in small dogs, large whole cashews can block airways.

• Watch for allergic reactions: Symptoms include swelling, itching, or vomiting.

• Avoid for sensitive dogs: Dogs prone to pancreatitis, bladder stones, or stomach issues should not eat fatty foods like cashews.

• Monitor unusual signs: Trouble standing, muscle tremors, or upset stomach may suggest an issue.

How Many Cashews Can a Dog Eat?

How many cashews should dogs eat? That depends on how big, heavy, and healthy the dog is in general. Both cashew butter and cashew milk sound good, but they are still unhealthy because they are high in fat and calories.

Basic Guidelines Based on Dog Size

When giving your pet cashews or cashew butter that is safe for dogs, keep these general tips in mind:

• Small dogs: 1–2 plain cashews, once or twice per week.

• Medium dogs: No more than 3–5 cashews at a time.

• Large dogs: 5–10 cashews max, based on activity level.

Why You Should Be Careful With Nut-Based Treats

Cashew snacks like cashew butter and cashew milk may not seem dangerous, but they often have extra salt, sugar, or xylitol, which is very bad for dogs. Check the label every time, even if it says "natural."

• Make your own: Blend plain cashews with a little coconut oil in a food processor for safe, homemade dog-safe cashew butter.

• Limit the amount: High in calories and fat, even a spoonful can be too much.

• Skip flavored spreads: These fall under people foods, not pet food.

Are Cashews or Peanuts Better for Dogs?

When choosing between cashews to dogs and peanuts, both can be okay in small amounts. Neither is a good choice for a regular treat. Still, it's clear that some nuts are better than others.

Cashews vs. Peanuts: Which Is a Smarter Snack?

Peanuts are technically legumes, not nuts, but are often easier for canine companions to digest. Although cashews have more minerals, they are also higher in fat and calories.

• Peanuts are lower in fat: Better for overweight dogs or those on strict diets.

• Cashews are richer in nutrients: But don’t give enough value to outweigh risks.

• Always go unsalted cashews: Flavored or mixed nuts can upset your pet’s stomach.

Dangerous Nuts You Should Always Avoid

Along with being bad for you, some nuts are also dangerous for dogs and can quickly become very sick.

• Macadamia nuts: Can cause vomiting, difficulty walking, and tremors.

• Hickory nuts, walnuts, and pecans: Linked to seizures and digestive problems.

• Avoid feeding mixed nuts: These may include dangerous types even in small amounts.

What Nut Is Best for Dogs?

Small amounts of some nuts are safe for dogs, but large amounts of others can be very bad for their health. Don't take your dog to the vet if you know which nuts are safe for them. This will keep them healthy and happy.

Nuts That Are Safer in Small Amounts

Some kinds of nuts are fine for dogs to eat once in a while. Nuts and dog cashews are good for you as long as they are plain and not salted.

• Cashews are safe in moderation: They’re not toxic but should be limited due to their high fat content.

• Peanuts are generally safe: Choose plain, unsalted peanuts without any coatings or seasonings.

• Only as treats: Both should be used as treats, not a regular part of your dog’s diet.

Nuts That Are Dangerous or Toxic to Dogs

Other nuts are very dangerous and can cause serious illness, even in small amounts. In any case, these should never be given to dogs.

• Macadamia nuts are highly toxic: They can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, weakness, and tremors.

• Hickory nuts and walnuts are unsafe: These can trigger seizures or digestion problems.

• Avoid nut mixes: A variety pack can include harmful nuts that may lead to severe health issues.

What FullyHealthy Can Do for Dog Owners

FullyHealthy is a great place to find simple, human foods that you could use to make treats for your dog. Even though this brand isn't made just for pets, some of their products, like raw cashew butter, raw pecan butter, can be used safely with care.

Dog-Friendly Cashew Products You Can Try

FullHealthy sells simple cashew butter that is made with just one thing. People who want to keep their pets healthy can use this spread instead of others that contain too much salt or fillers.

• Artisana Raw Cashew Butter: Made from one cup of organic cashews, no salt, sugar, or oil.

• Great for enrichment: Spread a small amount into a dog toy like a Kong.

• Optional sweetener: Avoid adding sweeteners like honey, as they add unnecessary sugar without nutritional benefit for dogs.

Products You Should Keep Away From Your Dog

Dogs should not eat all human snacks. Especially if they have a lot of ingredients, some can make your stomach upset.

• Skip flavored or sweetened spreads: Many contain ingredients not safe for dogs.

• Avoid products with salt: Excess salt may cause dehydration or digestive issues.

• Keep unsafe foods out of reach: Even healthy snacks can do more harm if they contain the wrong nuts.

Final Thoughts

If you give them to your dog the right way, cashews can be a tasty treat. Small amounts of plain cashews and cashew butter that is safe for dogs are fine for healthy dogs. But be careful, eating a lot of nuts that are high in fat can cause serious problems.

Keep your dog away from dangerous foods at all times, and never ignore signs that he or she is sick. Get your pet checked out right away if something doesn't seem right. Cashews aren't necessary for a dog's diet, but giving them one now and then can be fun. Just make sure they don't hurt the dog.

FAQs

Can dogs eat cashew butter daily?

No, dogs eat cashew butter only in small amounts; daily use can be risky due to high fat.

Is it perfectly fine to feed cashews to puppies?

No, it's not perfectly fine; puppies may choke or get sick easily. Start with tiny pieces.

What if my dog eats a lot of cashews?

Large amounts can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or pancreatitis. Contact veterinary care immediately.

Can cashews help control inflammation in dogs?

Cashews contain omega fats which may help control inflammation, but they aren't a cure or treatment.

Should cashews be kept out of pup's reach?

Yes, always keep nuts and unsafe snacks out of your pup's reach to avoid accidental overeating.