Dogs can eat almonds, but they are not the best dog treat choice. Almonds are high in fat, salt, and oxalate. Eating too many almonds can weaken a dog’s heart and kidneys.
For this reason, almonds should be fed to dogs in limited quantities. Continue reading to learn why almonds are not a good snack for your dog.
A Quick Glance
Can dogs have almonds?
Yes, dogs can have almonds and get nutritional benefits from this “super nut.” They contain vitamins and minerals that are good for canines. Here are some of the nutrients found in almonds.
Vitamin B2
- Aids in cataract prevention
- Promotes healthy and strong bone growth
- Essential in maintaining healthy skin, nails, and coat
- Necessary in blood cell production
Vitamin E
- Reduces blood pressure levels
- Promotes healthy heart function
- Prevent cell damage and strengthen the immune system.
- Fights against cancer and cardiovascular diseases
Antioxidants
- Slow down the aging process
- Prevent oxidative stress that causes cell damage
- Fight off diseases such as cancer
Magnesium
- Aids in protein production
- Helps in the quick absorption of vitamins and minerals
- Encourages bone growth
Potassium
- Enhances muscle strength and promotes muscle development
- Replenishes lost electrolytes
- Helps maintain healthy blood vessel functions
What types of almonds are safe for dogs?
Care should be taken on what type of almonds you are giving to your pooch.
While most almonds are safe for dogs to consume, a few others are hazardous to their health. Continue reading to learn what almond types are dog-friendly snacks.
Can dogs eat sweet almonds?
Yes, feeding your dog sweet almonds is fine.
If you plan to share sweet almonds with your pooch, remember to serve them in moderation.
Can dogs eat bitter almonds?
No, never feed bitter almonds to dogs. They are closely related to sweet almonds but are extremely dangerous even to humans that they are banned in some countries.
Bitter almonds contain prussic or hydrocyanic acid, which makes them very poisonous.
Can dogs eat Chinese almonds?
No, Chinese almonds should not be fed to dogs. They are not almonds or nuts, but variations of apricot kernels.
In addition, trace amounts of cyanide can be found in Chinese almonds, which can potentially poison dogs.
Are almonds okay for dogs?
Almonds are not as harmful to dogs as certain nuts such as macadamia nuts. However, they do pose some health hazards to your furry friends. Here are some dangers that you should be aware of:
High-Fat Content
Almonds are high in fats, which can cause several digestive problems, from mild stomach upset to a severe case of pancreatitis or gastroenteritis.
If your dog is experiencing appetite loss, lack of energy, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite after eating almonds, get him checked by the vet immediately.
Toxic Molds
Most almonds are not toxic to dogs; however, in some cases, a certain mold called Aspergillus grows on them. It contains aflatoxin, which is a substance that causes poisoning in dogs.
If your dog ate moldy almonds and is showing symptoms of illness, contact poison control and your vet immediately.
Too Much Salt
Packaged almonds are often heavily spiced and salted. Allowing your dog to feast on these snacks will put him at risk of water retention or fluid build-up.
This condition is hazardous, especially for dogs with heart disease. Having too much salt can also cause sodium toxicity in dogs. Spices and seasonings may result in digestive upset.
High in Oxalate
Oxalate is an organic compound found in many plants and nuts, including almonds. Large amounts of oxalate may lead to kidney stone formation. So, almonds are not the best snack for dogs with kidney problems.
Obstruction and Choking Hazard
Almonds are difficult to chew, and your pooch may swallow them whole. If ingested in large quantities, his intestines cannot digest them properly. This may lead to severe stomach blockage.
Almonds can also cause choking, especially in small breed dogs, as their windpipes are smaller than those of large dogs. Small dogs and puppies may not be able to chew their food very well, so it is better not to give them whole almonds.
Almond Allergies
Some dogs have allergic reactions to almonds. If your pooch is showing signs of an allergic reaction such as breathing difficulties, coughing, sneezing, hives, and swelling after eating almonds, call your veterinarian immediately.
How many almonds can a dog eat?
Almonds can be potentially life-threatening for dogs if eaten in large quantities, so feed almonds in moderation. Restrict the serving amount to 1–2 almond nuts.
Some dogs may love the taste of almonds and come back for more, but do not give them more than what is allowed to prevent undesirable short- or long-term side effects.
Keep in mind that dogs have a sensitive digestive system. So if it is your dog’s first time eating almonds, give them small amounts.
Can dogs eat raw almonds?
Raw almonds are safe for dogs, and so are roasted ones. Plain and unsalted is the best way to serve almonds to your furry friend.
You need to remove the shells before offering them to him. Supervise your dog to ensure that he does not choke while enjoying this tasty snack.
Can dogs eat almond yogurt?
Only feed almond yogurt to your dog if it is low in sugar, additives, and thickeners.
Always check if the ingredients include the sweetener xylitol, a sugar substitute that is extremely toxic to dogs. This sweetener is rarely found in dairy products but make it a habit to read the label.
Can dogs eat almond butter?
Yes, dogs can eat almond butter provided that it is plain and natural. It should not contain salt or other flavorings. If almond butter is combined with human food, keep it away from your dog. It may contain other ingredients, such as garlic or onions, which can cause canine poisoning.
Just like almond nuts, almond butter is also high in fat content. Nut butters like cashew butter and almond butter should only be given to dogs sparingly.
Can dogs eat almond flour?
If your dog accidentally gets his paws on almond flour, do not panic. It is not toxic to dogs. Almond flour is a good alternative to wheat flour if your dog has wheat allergies or gluten sensitivities.
But overeating can cause stomach problems or diarrhea. If your pooch starts having these problems, take him to the vet immediately.
Can dogs have almond milk?
Unsweetened almond milk is safe for your dog to have.
Choose almond milk that has no harmful preservatives, thickeners, and flavorings. Check the ingredients and ensure that it does not contain xylitol since some brands use this as a sweetener.
Can dogs eat almond extract?
No, almond extract is not safe for dogs.
The ingredients typically used to make it are water, alcohol (usually ethyl alcohol), and bitter almond oil—two of which are extremely dangerous for dogs.
Homemade almond dog treats
You can be creative with almonds and turn them into delicious dog treats that are healthy and safe to eat. Here is a delicious recipe that you can make at home:
Almond Blackberry Biscuit
Ingredients
- ½ cup blackberries
- 1 egg
- 2 ½ cups almond flour
- 2/3 cups gluten-free quick oats
- 3 tablespoons water
Procedure
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine all the ingredients until well-incorporated. You will know that it is done once the dough has a vibrant purple color.
- On a floured surface, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thick.
- Cut out shapes from the dough using a cookie cutter.
- Re-roll the remaining dough and cut out more treats. Repeat until all the dough is used up.
- Put the treats on the baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes.
- Take the treats out of the oven and allow them to cool.
- Serve the treats to your furry friend. Put the leftovers inside a resealable bag or an airtight container and store them in the fridge.
