Can Dogs Eat Cashews? Pro Tips On Feeding Cashews to Dogs

Cashews can be a healthy and gratifying treat for Fido. But, as with any human foods moderation is the name of the game. Unlike Macadamia Nuts, cashews are non-toxic to our canine friends. The following guidelines, even though basic, are something you should keep in mind if you decide to allow your dog to eat cashews.

Can Dogs Have Cashews

The quick and easy answer is yes, dogs can safely eat cashews. IN MODERATION. We cannot say this enough with any human food. Dogs digestive system is totally different from us humans and you MUST take that into consideration. Even though dogs like cashews – cashews may not like them. What I’m trying to say is your dog may be allergic to this nut and, if this is the case, you must avoid feeding your pup any nut based product.

Additionally, Cashews are a high-fat, high-protein treat that poses a potential issue for dogs. If fed in large amounts, Fido could develop pancreatitis. Which is an inflammation of the pancreas. This is a serious, and possibly life threatening condition where a veterinarian must take action QUICKLY.

How can you tell if your dog has developed pancreatitis? Here are some signs to look out for. Less Appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, depression and abdominal pain.

Are Cashews Bad For Dogs

If the information provided above didn’t sway you away from feeding your pup cashews. Consider the following. It’s possible, but rare, that a dog develop a severe allergy to cashews. If you feed cashews to your dog, be sure to watch him/her for symptoms of allergies. You should watch for swelling, hives and/or itching. Also, and very important to understand that when your dog have cashews be doubly sure that the nuts came from a cashews-only bag. This avoids contamination from other TOXIC nuts. And, make sure that the nuts are unsalted.

How to Safely Feed Your Dog Cashews

Don’t. This is my humble opinion. Just don’t. This way you can have peace of mind that your four-legged friend is eating a well-balanced diet of actual dog food – that your veterinarian recommended. I get it though, your dog comes up to you begging for what you have in your hand. With those big pouting eyes and innocent little whimper, you can’t resist and allow your dog to eat a cashew or two — or more.

If you fall victim to your pups begging, keep this rule of thumb in the back of your mind. Treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For example, a dog weighing 10lbs requires approximately 220 calories per day. Now, consider this…. an ounce of cashews is loaded with about 160 calories. That’s almost 75% of Fido’s daily needs. And he hasn’t hand his dinner yet. Not good by any means.

Nuts That Are Dangerous to Dogs

Cashews may be fine for your dog – in moderation, but some nuts need to be avoided altogether. Due to their toxicity to canines, death could be a likely outcome. If you decide see if your dog goes nuts for nuts, make sure you’re avoiding the following types:

Walnuts

Pecans

Macadamia nuts

Hickory nuts

Chocolate Covered Nuts – chocolate and xylitol are toxic to dogs and could result in serious illness or death

Key Takeaways

• Dogs can safely eat cashews, as long as they are shelled, unsalted, and they aren’t mixed with any other nut.
• Although these nuts aren’t the best treat option, feeding them occasionally and in small amounts shouldn’t cause any harm.
• If you have more questions about feeding cashews to your dog, consult your vet.
• Carrots are a better option than cashews. Most dogs love the sweet taste of a carrot. And, carrots are very nutritious.