.png){kind=avatar}
🐾 Can Dogs Eat Cashews?
Yes - dogs can eat cashews in small amounts, but only if they are plain, unsalted, and roasted. Cashews are not toxic to dogs, but they are high in fat, which means overfeeding or serving the wrong kind can lead to health problems.
Cashews should only be fed occasionally and never become a regular part of your dog’s diet.
✅ Nutritional Benefits of Cashews for Dogs
Cashews offer some potential health benefits when fed properly:
- Protein - supports muscle growth and repair
- Healthy fats - primarily monounsaturated fats, good for coat and skin
- Magnesium - helps with energy production and bone health
- Copper - aids red blood cell formation
- Zinc - supports immune function
- Antioxidants - helps reduce inflammation
These nutrients can support your dog’s overall health - but only when cashews are fed in moderation.
⚠️ Risks of Feeding Cashews to Dogs
Despite the benefits, cashews can also cause issues in dogs if overfed or improperly served:
- High fat content - may cause pancreatitis or obesity in dogs
- Salted cashews - can lead to sodium poisoning, dehydration, or kidney issues
- Flavoured cashews - often contain garlic, onion powder, or other additives that are toxic to dogs
- Nut allergies - while rare, dogs can be allergic to cashews
- Choking hazard - especially in small dogs, whole cashews can cause airway blockage
Always introduce cashews slowly and in very small amounts.
🚫 Never Feed These Types of Cashews
Avoid giving your dog any of the following:
- Salted cashews
- Chocolate-covered cashews
- Spiced or flavoured cashews
- Cashew trail mix with raisins or other toxic foods
- Cashew butter with xylitol or added sugar
- Raw cashews (contain urushiol in small traces, which can be harmful)
Stick to plain, unsalted, roasted cashews only.
🧠 Can Dogs Eat Other Nuts?
While cashews are safer than many nuts, others are extremely dangerous:
- Macadamia nuts - toxic to dogs and can cause tremors, vomiting, and weakness
- Walnuts - risk of mold toxicity and intestinal blockage
- Almonds - hard to digest and pose a choking risk
- Pecans and pistachios - high in fat and can cause GI upset
If you're ever unsure, avoid feeding any nuts until you’ve spoken to a vet.
🐕 How Many Cashews Can Dogs Eat?
Cashews should be treated as an occasional treat - not a staple in your dog’s diet.
Safe serving guidelines:
- Small dogs: 1–2 cashews, once or twice a week
- Medium dogs: 2–3 cashews
- Large dogs: up to 4 cashews
Tips:
- Break the cashews into smaller pieces to avoid choking
- Only feed cashews by hand or mixed into food for controlled portions
- Never give daily or in bulk - the fat content is too high
👩⚕️ Symptoms of Cashew Overfeeding
If your dog eats too many cashews or consumes the wrong type, monitor them for:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating or abdominal discomfort
- Increased thirst or urination
- Signs of pancreatitis (hunched posture, pain, repeated vomiting)
If your dog shows any of these signs, book a $49 video vet consultation to get expert advice quickly.
🐶 Can Puppies Eat Cashews?
It's best to avoid giving cashews to puppies. Their digestive systems are still developing, and even small changes in diet can lead to stomach issues.
Stick to:
- Vet-approved puppy treats
- Plain cooked meats like chicken or turkey
- Commercial kibble designed for puppies
Always consult your vet before introducing human foods to young dogs.
🍽️ Healthy Alternatives to Cashews
Looking for safe, nutritious snacks to treat your dog with? Try:
- Carrot sticks (crunchy, low calorie)
- Green beans (fiber-rich)
- Apple slices (no seeds)
- Plain cooked chicken
- Frozen blueberries (antioxidant-rich)
- Peanut butter (xylitol-free, in moderation)
- Sweet potato chews
These are all healthier options with fewer fat-related risks than nuts.
📺 Watch: Can Dogs Eat Cashews? (YouTube Guide)
🙋♀️ FAQs
Q: Can dogs eat cashew butter?
A: Only if it’s made from plain, unsalted, roasted cashews and contains no xylitol or added sugar. Use in small amounts only.
Q: Can cashews cause allergies in dogs?
A: Yes, although rare. Watch for signs like itching, vomiting, diarrhoea, or swelling. If seen, discontinue immediately and consult a vet.
Q: Are roasted cashews safe for dogs?
A: Yes - as long as they’re plain and unsalted. Roasting removes traces of naturally occurring toxins present in raw cashews.
Q: Can I give my dog mixed nuts if it includes cashews?
A: No. Most nut mixes contain dangerous ingredients like macadamias, salt, raisins, or artificial flavours.
Q: Can cashews make dogs sick?
A: Yes - especially if fed in large amounts or if they contain salt, fat, or additives. Stick to small quantities and monitor for any negative reaction.
👨⚕️ When to Speak to a Vet
Contact a vet if:
- Your dog eats a large quantity of cashews
- They consume salted, flavoured, or raw cashews
- You notice signs of allergic reaction or upset stomach
- Your dog has a pre-existing condition like pancreatitis, obesity, or kidney disease
You can book a $49 online video consultation with Dial A Vet and speak with a licensed professional in minutes.
📚 References
- American Kennel Club. Can Dogs Eat Cashews? Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-cashews/
- PetMD Editors. Can Dogs Eat Cashews? Risks and Benefits Explained. PetMD. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-cashews
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
- VCA Hospitals. Foods Your Dog Should Never Eat. Retrieved from https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/foods-toxic-to-dogs
