Can Dogs Eat Pecans? (2024)

Pecans are a popular option for humans to eat or include in a variety of dishes. In moderation, these tree nuts can be a healthy snack for people, as they are full of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Pecans are also a source of monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol.

Unfortunately, pecans are not good for dogs. Even a small number of these nuts can make your dog very sick, possibly causing neurological issues.

Can Dogs Eat Pecans?

If you are eating pecans or snacks filled with pecans, don’t share them with your dog. Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC, explains that “though pecans are harmless to humans, pecans should not be given to dogs.”

Why are pecans bad for dogs? These nuts are toxic for dogs. Eating them can result in pets becoming sick and needing immediate veterinary care. “The reason pecans are considered toxic is that they contain a compound called juglone, also found in walnuts, that is harmful to dogs,” advises Dr. Klein. Juglone is naturally found in every part of pecans and can cause a variety of digestive issues if ingested.

Can Dogs Eat Pecans? (1)

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Dogs who eat pecans are likely to experience severe vomiting from the juglone; this compound may also cause gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea. Furthermore, pecans contain molds, which can also be toxic to dogs if ingested. In addition, pecans’ small size makes them a possible choking hazard.

Pancreatitis Risk

Pecans are considered a high-fat nut, which is part of what makes them such a popular energy-boosting snack for people. But nuts’ high fat and oil content could lead to pancreatitis in dogs. Symptoms of pancreatitis for dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Dogs with pancreatitis (or suspected pancreatitis) can get very sick quickly and risk dehydration; a veterinarian should immediately see them.

Risk of Toxic Mold

Even if you are using fresh pecans, you run the risk of exposing your dog to harmful mold, which can make them very sick. Pecans (and walnuts) are very susceptible to growing a particularly dangerous mold that contains mycotoxins. Some varieties of mold growing naturally in nuts produce mycotoxins, which are toxic.

Can Dogs Eat Pecans? (2)

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Dr. Klein explains that dogs ingesting mycotoxins from pecans “can lead to tremors and seizures,” as well as other neurological issues. In addition, pecans are susceptible to developing aflatoxin. Klein notes that aflatoxin is “produced from a mold that grows on pecan shells known as Aspergillus.”

What to Do if Your Dog Eats Pecans

If you’re eating pecans or cooking with pecans, it’s best to keep those nuts away from your dog. While Dr. Klein notes that “most likely, if a dog consumes only one or two pieces of pecan nuts, chances are there should not be a major problem,” he adds that a dog would not have to eat a lot of pecans to get very sick.

To be safe, if your dog eats pecans, even a small amount, Dr. Klein recommends contacting a veterinarian right away. If your regular veterinarian’s office is closed, you should contact an emergency veterinary clinic in your area.

Can Dogs Eat Pecans? (2024)

FAQs

Can Dogs Eat Pecans? ›

Pecans are also a source of monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol. Unfortunately, pecans are not good for dogs. Even a small number of these nuts can make your dog very sick, possibly causing neurological issues.

What happens if my dog eats pecans? ›

While pecans are not toxic to dogs, they can be difficult for your pup to digest and may cause health issues if dogs have too many. If you suspect that your dog has ingested a large amount of pecans or is experiencing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, seek veterinary care immediately.

Can dogs have almonds or pecans? ›

Why Are Nuts Bad for Dogs? Not all nuts are toxic to canines, but almost all are high in fat. This can lead to obesity and pancreatic issues in dogs. Feeding your dog salted nuts can also lead to water retention and other complications, and some nuts, like almonds, are potential choking hazards.

What to do if my dog ate pecan pie? ›

Pumpkin pie, apple pie, or pecan pie: Call your vet if your dog ate a large amount of pie; monitor them for symptoms if they only had a lick or few bites.

Can pecans cause liver damage in dogs? ›

Juglone is the toxic substance in pecans that wreaks havoc on your dog's system. It can cause liver damage and is not something to take lightly. Dogs and juglone don't mix, and even a small amount can be harmful. Short-term effects include gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms.

Can dogs eat popcorn? ›

Is Eating Popcorn Safe for Dogs? Yes and no. Plain, air-popped popcorn is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. Buttered popcorn or popcorn with other toppings is not safe for your dog on a regular basis, although eating a few dropped pieces here and there probably won't hurt them.

Can dogs eat watermelon? ›

Yes, dogs can eat watermelon! There are a few precautions you'll need to take though, such as removing the large seeds as these can cause an intestinal blockage if too many are consumed, particularly if your dog is a smaller breed.

Can dogs have peanut butter? ›

Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter? Yes, dogs can eat peanut butter, but it's important to check the label before spoiling your dog with this delicious treat as added ingredients could be harmful for them. For example, xylitol, a sugar substitute, is extremely toxic for dogs and can sometimes be found in peanut butter.

How many pecans is too many for a dog? ›

If you're eating pecans or cooking with pecans, it's best to keep those nuts away from your dog. While Dr. Klein notes that “most likely, if a dog consumes only one or two pieces of pecan nuts, chances are there should not be a major problem,” he adds that a dog would not have to eat a lot of pecans to get very sick.

Can dogs have bananas? ›

Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They're high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog's main diet.

Can dogs have honey? ›

Honey is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. It contains natural sugars and small amounts of vitamins and minerals. It is also used as a sweetener in many foods and beverages. That sweetness comes at a price, however.

Can pecans cause food poisoning? ›

Salmonella outbreaks have been linked to sesame seeds, raw almonds, peanut butter, pistachios, and pecans among others. Other bacterial foodborne pathogens associated with nuts are Bacillus cereus, Clostridium botulinum, Clostridium perfringens, Cronobacter, Escherichia coli O157:H7, L.

Are pecan shells poisonous? ›

Pecan shells are not poisonous as some people think; instead, they are very useful and are of great benefit. Pecan shells that come from Pecans (Carya illinoinensis) are gotten as a byproduct when the nuts are being extracted.

What happens if my dog eats walnuts? ›

Although it may be technically safe for dogs to eat a few walnuts (especially if they are store-bought and unsalted), walnuts are not the best choice for your dog. Walnuts can be a choking hazard for dogs and, when eaten in large quantities, can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition called pancreatitis.

Can dogs eat pecans almonds and pumpkin seeds? ›

Nuts Can Be Coated In Toxic Ingredients

Finally, although peanuts, almonds, pecans, and English walnuts are safe for dogs to eat, sometimes they are coated with ingredients that aren't. If you are buying nuts for your dog, then always buy unseasoned nuts without the extra sugar, salt, or any form of chocolate coating.

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