Can Dogs Eat Pistachios?
Yes, dogs can eat pistachios, but like all nuts, we usually buy them salted, roasted, and often coated with spices, so they’re not an ideal snack for dogs! Besides the salt, pistachios are also high in fat, so they’re only safe in moderation.
The most important thing to remember is that pistachios are not toxic to dogs, and even if your dog eats more than a few, they’ll likely be fine! Pistachios, like other nuts, should not really be a part of your dog’s diet, so when you’re snacking, it’s best not to give them any. Similar to peanuts, cashews, and walnuts, pistachios are high in fat, which makes them a great energy source, but your dog doesn’t need that extra fat in their diet!
Are pistachios safe for dogs?
Pistachios are safe for dogs, but they’re not the best snack. The main reason is the fat content, followed by the sodium. Ideally, you’d want to share unsalted pistachios with your dog, but let’s be honest—you probably don’t buy the unsalted kind because the salty version is so much better!
Besides this, pistachio shells can be dangerous since they can cause internal obstruction. If you think your dog ate some whole pistachios with shells, keep an eye on them, as foreign objects can cause blockages. If they didn’t chew and break the shell, so it’s not sharp, your dog will most likely pass it, and everything will be fine.
How to help your dog if they ate pistachio shells
Whatever you read online, never induce vomiting at home without talking to your vet first! There’s a chance your dog could tear their intestines or esophagus and hurt themselves, so please don’t try this.
What you can do is help them pass the shell! You can do this by giving your dog food that’s easy to digest and very light. The best food for an upset stomach is cooked pumpkin, followed by cooked rice, cooked chicken, scrambled eggs, or some homemade applesauce that’s not too high in sugar. Don’t give them any homemade food with onions, sauces, or cream, as that will make things worse. The key is that the food has to be easy to swallow and digest!
Please call your vet if you notice any of these symptoms of obstruction or gastrointestinal damage:
Are there any health benefits of pistachios for dogs?
I wouldn’t call them health benefits, as salt and fat can lead to obesity and pancreatitis in dogs, but pistachios do have vitamins and minerals that make them healthy.
Now, this doesn’t mean you should give your dog pistachios, as nuts aren’t really a good snack for them. Your dog will get these minerals and vitamins from their dog food.
The safest way to give your dog pistachios
First, don’t give your dog pistachios—dog-specific snacks are much better for them. But if you’re determined to share, make sure you give them only one or two at a time and keep it as a rare treat.
Next, remove the shell and never let them play with unshelled pistachios. They might enjoy the game too much and next time might steal some from your table and eat them whole with shells!
If you’re sharing, remember that plain, unsalted pistachios are the best option. No fancy seasonings or chocolate coatings!
Love, life, and fur forever!
FAQs
Can dogs eat sweet chili pistachios?
While they’re not toxic, sweet chili pistachios can upset your dog’s stomach. Hot spices like chili combined with salt and fat can make your dog pretty sick. And since these are tasty, there’s a good chance your dog would eat quite a lot before you notice, so it’s better not to leave the bag within reach and not to give them any!
Can dogs eat pistachio ice cream?
The issue with pistachio ice cream isn’t the pistachios—it’s the dairy and sugar. These ingredients are heavy on a dog’s stomach. Plus, store-bought pistachio ice cream might have additives, artificial sweeteners, and who knows what else, so be careful what you share.
How many pistachios can a dog eat a day?
If you’re really set on sharing pistachios, make sure not to give them more than one or two a day if they’re a small dog, and a couple more if they’re a large dog. Again, think twice about your choice, as too much fat, even from healthy sources like nuts, isn’t good for your dog. And keep it an occasional treat, not a regular snack.