Nutrition Unshelled: Can Dogs Eat Walnuts Safely?
Posted by volhard dog nutrition on Mar 27th 2024
Cracking open a walnut can be a satisfying experience, but have you ever wondered if your canine companion can join in on the fun?
As responsible dog parents, we must understand the ins and outs of feeding walnuts to our furry friends. Walnuts may seem like a nutritious snack, but there are essential considerations to consider before sharing them with your pup.
From the potential risks to the proper serving size, we're here to investigate whether these crunchy nuts are an excellent treat for your four-legged family member!
Are Walnuts Safe for Dogs to Consume?
Yes, walnuts are considered safe for dogs.
Feeding walnuts to your pup is all about moderation and ensuring they are fresh, husk- and bark-free!
You can purchase deshelled English walnuts—often used in cooking—from most grocery stores. These walnuts are generally considered the safest type of walnuts for dogs.
What Are the Health Benefits of Feeding Dogs Walnuts?
While English walnuts can be fed to dogs in small quantities, they should be given as an occasional treat rather than a staple of their diet.
These nuts are rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and several vitamins and minerals that can contribute to a healthy coat and skin and improved brain health.
Does the Fat Content in Walnuts Affect Canine Health?
Walnuts should be given sparingly to overweight dogs, especially those prone to pancreatitis, because of their high calorie and fat content.
Monitor your dog's overall fat intake, not just from nuts, as excessive fat can lead to obesity and other health issues.
If you notice any unusual symptoms in your dog after consuming walnuts or any other fatty foods, consult your veterinarian for advice and possible blood tests.
What Are Other Health Risks of Walnuts for Dogs?
Store-bought walnuts and other nuts may contain additives like salt or other seasonings harmful to dogs in large quantities. Avoid feeding dogs chocolate-covered walnuts, as chocolate is highly toxic to dogs.
As with any new food, it's essential to introduce walnuts slowly to your dog's diet and monitor its reaction. Many safer snacks and treats provide health benefits without the risks associated with walnuts.
Are Black Walnuts Safe for Dogs?
Black walnuts have specific considerations for dogs.
The 'fruit' itself, when separated from the husk, is not inherently toxic to dogs and is generally safe to eat. However, the husk, bark, and shavings of the black walnut tree contain compounds that can be toxic and also pose a choking hazard.
Consuming whole black walnuts can lead to walnut poisoning in dogs, producing tremorgenic mycotoxins that make a dog sick.
Symptoms of walnut poisoning in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological issues. If you suspect your dog ate black walnuts or is showing symptoms after consuming walnuts, take them to the vet immediately.
Are Black Walnuts an Effective Deworming Option for Dogs?
While some holistic veterinarians use black walnuts as a natural deworming agent for dogs, we do not recommend this practice at home.
The use of black walnuts for deworming can negatively affect a dog's liver and kidneys, posing significant health risks.
Black walnuts are safe for wound healing, but dog parents should avoid self-administering black walnuts for wound healing.
Why Does Mold on Walnuts Pose a Danger to Dogs?
Moldy walnut hulls, often found under walnut trees, contain highly toxic mycotoxins to dogs.
A dog that eats moldy walnuts may incur food poisoning, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and severe neurological complications, including seizures and tremors. Some molds on walnuts also produce metabolites with carcinogenic properties.
While some dog parents may consider boiling walnuts and thoroughly drying them to remove potential mold, this process may not eliminate all mycotoxins. Given the availability of numerous dog-safe treats that do not carry these risks, opting for those alternatives is safer and more practical.
Dog parents should know that mold can develop on walnuts regardless of whether they're hand-picked or bought from a store. We encourage you to prioritize your furry friend's safety and choose safe dog treats.
5 Signs of Walnut Poisoning in Dogs
Walnut poisoning in dogs can manifest through various symptoms, such as:
- Vomiting and Diarrhea: These common symptoms indicate gastrointestinal distress caused by walnut ingestion.
- Abdominal Pain: If your dog is in discomfort or pain around their abdomen, it could be a sign of intestinal blockage or irritation from walnut consumption.
- Loss of Appetite: A sudden disinterest in food may indicate an upset stomach or other discomforts related to walnut poisoning.
- Tremors and Seizures: Tremorgenic mycotoxins found in moldy walnuts cause severe neurological signs that warrant immediate veterinary care.
- Increased Thirst and Urination: These could be signs of kidney involvement after consuming toxic substances in walnuts.
4 Healthier Dog Treat Alternatives to Walnuts
Considering the risks associated with walnuts for dogs, it's wise to explore safer and healthier treat options.
Here are some dog-friendly alternatives:
- Carrots: A crunchy and nutritious snack for your dog's teeth.
- Apples (without seeds): Apples provide vitamins and fiber, making them a healthy treat.
- Blueberries: These antioxidant-rich snacks are the perfect treats for training.
- Green Beans: A low-calorie option that's full of iron and vitamins.
Protect Your Dog's Health with Volhard!
Our commitment to your dog's health is unwavering, and we're here to support you every step of the way. With our range of nutritious foods, wellness resources, and expert advice, you're not just making a choice—you're making a difference in your dog's life!
For more advice on dog nutrition, health, and training, make sure to contact us and check out our blog!
Volhard Dog Nutrition and its expert nutritionists are now offering online consultations to help more dog parents discover why and how to feed their dogs the healthiest of foods!
Speaking to a Volhard nutritionist will help you understand the inseparable relationship between healthy food, a healthy body, and a healthy mind.
If you want to contact one of our Volhard nutritionists, don't hesitate to access our consultation page!