Can Dogs Eat Pistachios? Safety & Risks of Dogs & Pistachios

For us as humans, pistachios make a delicious, energizing, and nutritious snack. It may be tempting to share these bite-sized treats with our dogs, but is this really in their best interest? Can dogs eat pistachios? Are pistachios bad for dogs? Read on to find out more. 

Can Dogs Have Pistachios? 

Pistachios are high in protein, fiber, antioxidants, and Vitamin B6, all of which are important, but as with most nuts, they are also extremely high in fat. While in moderation, most dogs will be just fine if they snag a dropped pistachio off the ground, when fed too many, the high fat content can lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis, symptoms of which include vomiting and diarrhea.  

Treats and snacks should only make up to 10% of a dog’s daily calorie intake, the other 90% being a complete and balanced diet. Feeding more treats is likely to lead to weight gain and obesity which can predispose dogs to certain health issues like early onset arthritis and diabetes. 

Are Pistachios Toxic to Dogs? 

Some tree nuts, like macadamia nuts, are truly toxic to dogs, while others can be okay in moderation. While pistachios are not toxic to dogs, they should not necessarily be fed to dogs purposefully as doing so can come with some risks. Due to their small size and shape, pistachios can pose a choking risk for dogs. Knowing how to perform the Heimlich maneuver on a dog is helpful knowledge for owners to have in case of choking emergencies. Additionally, pistachios, along with other nuts, corn, and grains, can grow mold that produces aflatoxin. Aflatoxin is toxic to both humans and dogs, causing vomiting, diarrhea, damage to the liver, and sometimes even seizures. 

How Many Pistachios Can a Dog Have? 

While pistachios are not toxic to dogs, they are not recommended. Generally, a small dog can likely tolerate 1 to 2 pistachios, while a large dog can tolerate 5 to 6 pistachios.  If you insist on offering your pup a pistachio, it is best to ensure the shell is removed and it is of an unflavored and unsalted variety. Crushing the pistachio into a fine powder and then sprinkling it over the top of their food can remove the risk of choking associated with pistachios for dogs. 

Alternatives to Pistachios for Dogs 

While there are some human snacks best avoided by our canine companions, fortunately there are several options that are safe for dogs. Tree nuts, including pistachios, are best avoided due to their high fat content. Many foods with pistachio flavoring, such as pistachio ice cream, contain artificial sweeteners, like xylitol, or added flavors, like chocolate, which are toxic to dogs.   

If you are compelled to share your food with your dog, always do the necessary research first! Can dogs eat apples? Are green beans good for dogs? What about dogs and peanut butter? Foods such as unsalted canned green beans and blueberries for dogs can make a great nutritious, nontoxic, low-calorie snack, offering our pets something tasty and giving us as owners the satisfaction of giving our dog something special. 

Consult Your Veterinarian 

It is important to always consult with your veterinarian prior to introducing new foods into your furry friend’s diet as what may be okay for one dog may not be recommended for another, especially for those with underlying health conditions. 

Curious pups can get into things they shouldn’t from time to time. From dirty laundry to old food in the trashcan, sometimes something seemingly innocent can become a big deal fast, resulting in toxicity or a gastrointestinal obstruction. Emergency veterinary visits can come with a scary price tag. Having pet insurance in place prior to an emergency allows owners to have the financial freedom to elect for gold standard diagnostics and treatments during stressful times, often leading to better outcomes. Embrace offers flexible, comprehensive dog insurance plans to best fit owners and their pets based on their individual needs. 

Pistachios for Dogs 

It is best to fight the temptation when it comes to sharing pistachios with your pup, as there are much safer options of human snacks to share. Pistachios are not toxic to dogs, and therefore can be okay in moderation, but must be fed with caution due to their high fat content and the choking hazard they carry. Always do your research and consult with your veterinarian prior to introducing a new food to your pet. 

While sharing a pistachio might seem like a harmless treat, it's always best to prioritize your pup's health. Opt for approved snacks instead, and save the pistachios for yourself!