Can Dogs Eat Almonds?

No, dogs should not eat almonds as they are not safe and can be harmful to them. 

Almonds are edible seeds that come from the fruit of the almond tree (Prunus dulcis). They are commonly consumed as a snack and used in various culinary dishes. Almonds can be eaten raw, roasted, or turned into products like almond butter and almond milk.

Whilst not toxic to dogs, almonds can be problematic for a few reasons. Firstly, almonds are difficult for dogs to digest due to their hard and tough texture. This can potentially lead to gastrointestinal issues like upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Secondly, almonds are high in fat content, which can put extra strain on a dog's pancreas and potentially lead to pancreatitis, a serious inflammatory condition.

In addition to the dangers posed by the almonds themselves, they may also harbour Aspergillus mould. Dogs are particularly susceptible to the aflatoxin produced by this mould and exposure can have serious consequences for your pet.

Due to these potential risks and the lack of significant nutritional benefits for dogs, it's best to avoid giving almonds to dogs altogether. If you suspect your dog has consumed almonds or any other potentially harmful substance, it's recommended to consult a veterinarian for proper guidance and care.

Table of Contents

• What are the symptoms of dogs eating almonds?
• How many almonds are harmful to dogs?
  • What are aflatoxins?
  • What are the symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning?
• Can dogs safely eat ground almonds?
• What to do if your dog eats almonds?
• What Are Alternative Safe Natural Treats for Dogs?

What are the symptoms of dogs eating almonds?

When dogs consume almonds, they might exhibit a range of symptoms depending on the quantity ingested and the individual dog's sensitivity. There are several common symptoms of almond ingestion.

• Gastrointestinal Distress: Almonds can be hard for dogs to digest, potentially leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, and excessive gas.
• Obstruction: The size and hardness of almonds can pose a choking hazard or lead to a blockage in the digestive tract, causing symptoms like difficulty breathing, coughing, or vomiting.
• Pancreatitis: Almonds are high in fat content, which can contribute to inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs include vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
• Allergic Reactions: Dogs can be allergic to certain nuts, including almonds. Symptoms of allergies might include itching, swelling, redness of the skin, hives, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing.
• Toxic Mould Exposure: As mentioned earlier, almonds can sometimes harbour Aspergillus mould, which produces aflatoxins. Dogs exposed to aflatoxins may experience symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and gums), and in severe cases, liver damage.
• Change in Behaviour: Dogs might also exhibit changes in behaviour such as restlessness, pacing, and discomfort.

It's important to note that the severity of these symptoms can vary widely depending on factors such as the dog's size, the amount of almonds consumed, and the dog's overall health. If you suspect your dog has consumed almonds and is showing any concerning symptoms, it's recommended to seek veterinary care promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How many almonds are harmful to dogs?

The exact quantity of almonds that can be considered harmful to dogs can vary depending on the individual dog's size, breed, overall health, and sensitivity. However, even a small amount of almonds can potentially cause problems in dogs due to their difficulty in digesting them and the potential risks associated with almond consumption.

As a general guideline, it's best to avoid giving almonds to dogs altogether. If a dog does happen to consume a small number of almonds, it might not necessarily lead to severe poisoning, but it can still cause gastrointestinal distress, upset stomach, or other mild symptoms. However, larger quantities of almonds or repeated exposure over time can increase the likelihood of more serious health issues such as pancreatitis, gastrointestinal blockage, or aflatoxin exposure from mould-contaminated almonds.

Because the tolerance for almonds can vary from dog to dog and due to the potential risks involved, it's safer to err on the side of caution and keep almonds and other nuts out of a dog's diet.

What are aflatoxins?

Aflatoxins are a group of naturally occurring toxic compounds produced by certain moulds, specifically strains of Aspergillus, which are commonly found in crops such as peanuts, corn, cottonseed, and tree nuts, including almonds. These moulds thrive in warm and humid conditions and can contaminate food and feedstuffs during cultivation, storage, and processing.

Aflatoxins are highly potent carcinogens and are considered among the most carcinogenic substances known. They can also be harmful to animals and humans, causing a range of health issues. Aflatoxins primarily affect the liver, where they can interfere with the organ's normal function, damage cells, and potentially lead to severe health complications, including liver cancer.

In animals, exposure to aflatoxins can result in acute symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and jaundice. Chronic exposure can lead to long-term health problems, including liver damage and an increased risk of liver cancer.

Regulatory bodies around the world impose strict limits on aflatoxin levels in food and animal feed to protect human and animal health. Proper storage and handling of food, as well as monitoring crops and products for mould contamination, are essential measures to prevent aflatoxin exposure. When it comes to pets, being cautious about the quality of their food and treats is crucial to avoid exposure to these harmful compounds.

What are the symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning?

Aflatoxin poisoning can have varying symptoms depending on the level of exposure, the specific type of aflatoxin, the duration of exposure, and the individual's overall health. Aflatoxin poisoning primarily affects the liver and can lead to both acute and chronic health issues. Common symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning in dogs include: 

• Gastrointestinal Distress: Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain may occur due to the liver's reduced ability to process and eliminate toxins.
• Lethargy and Weakness: Aflatoxin exposure can lead to a general sense of malaise, where the affected animal becomes lethargic, weak, and less active.
• Loss of Appetite: Decreased interest in food and a loss of appetite can be common due to the impact on the liver's role in digestion and metabolism.
• Jaundice: Aflatoxin poisoning can damage the liver, leading to jaundice, a condition characterised by yellowing of the eyes, gums, and skin due to the buildup of bilirubin.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: A combination of reduced appetite, impaired digestion, and toxin-related effects on the body can lead to weight loss.
• Pale or Gray Stools: Aflatoxin exposure can affect the colour and consistency of stools, making them pale or grey.
• Increased Thirst and Urination: Liver dysfunction can impact the body's ability to regulate fluids, leading to increased thirst and urination.
• Seizures and Neurological Symptoms: In severe cases, aflatoxin exposure can affect the central nervous system, leading to symptoms like seizures, tremors, and other neurological issues.
• Coagulation Abnormalities: Liver damage from aflatoxin can interfere with the production of clotting factors, potentially leading to bleeding disorders.

It's important to note that symptoms can vary widely, and not all dogs will exhibit all of these signs. Additionally, chronic exposure to lower levels of aflatoxin may lead to longer-term health issues, including an increased risk of liver cancer.

Can dogs safely eat ground almonds?

No, dogs should not consume ground almonds as they are still not safe for their digestion and overall health. While grinding almonds might alter their texture, the underlying risks associated with almond consumption remain.

Ground almonds can still be difficult for dogs to digest due to their high fat and protein content. Dogs' digestive systems are not well-equipped to handle nuts, and consumption can lead to gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach discomfort.

Additionally, ground almonds, like whole almonds, can carry the potential for mould contamination, which might expose dogs to harmful aflatoxins. These toxins can have serious health implications for dogs.

What to do if your dog eats almonds?

If you suspect or know that your dog has consumed almonds, it's important to take appropriate steps to ensure their safety and well-being.

• Assess the Situation: Determine how many almonds your dog might have consumed and whether they were plain or coated with any seasonings, salt, or flavours. This information will be useful when you consult a veterinarian.
• Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye on your dog for any unusual symptoms or changes in behaviour. Watch for signs of gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, or lethargy.
• Contact Your Veterinarian: If your dog has ingested a significant amount of almonds or is displaying concerning symptoms, it's best to contact your veterinarian for guidance. Describe the situation and your dog's condition to the vet.
• Follow Veterinarian's Advice: Depending on the situation, your veterinarian might recommend different actions. They might suggest inducing vomiting if the almonds were consumed recently, or they might recommend monitoring your dog's symptoms and bringing them in for an examination if necessary.
• Do Not Give Home Remedies: It's important not to administer any home remedies or over-the-counter medications without your veterinarian's approval. Some human remedies can be harmful to dogs.
• Hydration: Make sure your dog has access to clean water to stay hydrated. Dehydration can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues.

What Are Alternative Safe Natural Treats for Dogs?

There are several safe and dog-friendly alternatives to almonds that you can use as treats for your dog. Natural dog treats with no added preservatives or flavourings are perfect. 

Beef Bladder Twists

Beef Bladder Twists are a low fat healthy chew for puppies and dogs. Gently twisted and airdried with no additives or preservatives, dogs enjoy this tasty snack.

Yak Bars

Yak Bars are an extremely popular long lasting chew for dogs of all shapes and sizes. Formulated using traditional Himalayan methods with no additives or preservatives. Perfect for dental health and for keeping your dog occupied for long periods of time.

With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly & Reggie