Pistachios are the nuts which give a warm and soothing effect when you eat in winters. Because of the nutritional content, pistachios are highly beneficials for humans. Do you think dogs can eat pistachios? The answer can be complicated as pistachios are non-toxic but in large amounts it can cause really serious issues. Also the high fats in pistachios will lead to stomach upset and sickness. So, if you wanna know can dogs eat pistachios, the possible downsides or optimal quantity of pistachios according to your dog type_explore till the last.
Can dogs eat pistachios?
Chief Veterinary Officer of American Kennel Club, Dr Jerry Klein advises: although pistachio itself is not toxic for dogs, you should be concerned if your dog eats too much pistachios. For the sake of your pup’s health, avoid feeding them pistachio as large amounts of pistachio can cause stomach upset and sickness.
Possible downsides
Choking risk
If your dog swallows the shells or nuts, they can have choking risk as they can get lodges in the throat of your dog. Even when you are eating the nuts, just make sure to discard all the shells out of your dog’s approach.
Risk or pancreatitis
Pistachios are high in salt and fats which cause gastrointestinal issues in your dog_says Dr Jerry Klein. Haig salts and fat consumption can cause pancreatitis in dogs. The major signs include vomit, diarrhea and appetite loss. Pancreatitis progresses very fast, so if you notice gastrointestinal issues or lethargy in your dog_immediatley call your veterinarian.
Toxic substances
Pistachios have no definite toxicity but they might contain toxic components. Poison ivy has urushiol which can cause sickness in dogs with allergic reactions. Mold which grows over the nut shell has natural aflatoxin. It causes lethargy and weakness, gastrointestinal issues and even seizures.
How to serve pistachios to dogs?
For having a safe side, you have to:
- Purchase completely unsalted and plain pistachios.
- Undo the shells.
- Crush or smash the nuts to be sprinkled over the dog’s meal and to avoid choking risk.
As pistachios are high in fats, your dog may lead to pancreatitis. Even a small amount of pistachio can cause health issues.
Notice the signs like shock, collapse, dehydration, vomit, pain in abdomen, lethargy etc. call your vet immediately in case you see any of the signs.
Optimal quantity of pistachios and dogs:
| Size of dog | Weight of dog | Pistachios | Examples |
| Extra small | 2 to 20 pounds | 1 | Pugs. Chihuahuas. Yorkies. Pomeranians. |
| Small | 21 to 30 pounds | 2 | Miniature Australian shepherds. Beagles. Basenjis. |
| Medium | 31 to 50 pounds | 3 to 4 | Border collies. Basset hounds. Australian cattle dogs. |
| Large | 51 to 90 pounds | 5 to 6 | Labrador retrievers. German shepherds. Pit bulls. Australian shepherds. |
| Extra large | 91 plus pounds | A small handful | St.Bernards. Bernese mountain dogs. Great pyrenees. Newfoundlands. |
Conclusion
Till now you have read the whole, so you can guess what to do with pistachios. Although the nutritional content and pistachio is non toxic for dogs. We will not suggest you go for feeding your dogs the pistachios. To make the possible safety and prevention from any choking hazard, avoid feeding your dog on pistachios.
FAQs
Can I feed my dog pistachio ice cream?
Pistachios in ice cream are unsafe for your dog, while pistachio itself is non-toxic. Ice Creams have high sugar content and also contain toxic ingredients like chocolate and xylitol. Your dog may also have lactose intolerance. So it’s a no for pistachio ice cream.
Are pistachio shells good for dogs?
The shells of pistachio are unsafe for dogs as they can cause choking hazard. If you see symptoms like unconsciousness, unresponsiveness, cough, panic, or they are pawing at their mouth_immediately call your veterinarian to avoid further problems.
What if your dog eats pistachios?
Serious sickness can occur in case your dog eats too much pistachios. So keep your dog away from pistachios. If you see your dog feeding on excessive pistachios and shells, call your vet or emergency veterinary clinic.
