Can dogs eat walnuts?
Ask your vet about your own pet. This page is general information from the sources below.
Walnuts is only for small amounts, or in certain forms, for dogs. The ASPCA names walnuts, along with almonds and pecans, among the nuts that are rich in oils and fat. Too many can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and sometimes pancreatitis. If a pet gets sick after eating nuts, call a vet or a poison line.
Checked October 29, 2026.
Why
The ASPCA names walnuts, along with almonds and pecans, among the nuts that are rich in oils and fat. Too many can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and sometimes pancreatitis. If a pet gets sick after eating nuts, call a vet or a poison line.
How to serve it
If you share any at all, keep it to a tiny bite of a plain nut and check with your vet first.
Good to know
The ASPCA lists walnuts with almonds and pecans as nuts whose oil and fat can lead to pancreatitis.
Watch for: Walnuts show up in brownies, banana bread and baked goods, which add more sugar and fat.
Already ate it?
If your pet ate a lot, or you are worried, call your vet. Say what was eaten, how much and when, and have your pet's weight ready.
Poison emergency? Call now
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435, 24 hours a day, every day. A consultation fee may apply.
Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661, 24/7. $99 per incident, follow-up calls included.
Or call your vet or the nearest emergency vet.
For the children
"Walnuts is only a tiny treat for dogs, and only a grown-up decides how much."
A job: Be the label reader. Before a grown-up shares any food with the dog, check this page, and ask a grown-up if the food is not on it.
This page is general information from the sources below, not veterinary advice. Your own vet knows your dog. Dogs differ.
Sources
- ASPCA: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (checked October 29, 2026)