Can Dogs Eat Cashews? Rare, Plain, and Few

The ASPCA notes that nuts are high in fats that can cause vomiting, diarrhea and possibly pancreatitis. Cashews are calorie-dense, so a few can add up quickly for a small dog.

Salted cashews can lead to excess salt intake. Flavoured and spiced versions may include onion or garlic powder. Mixed nuts may contain macadamias, which are toxic, so never share a mixed nut bowl.

Whole cashews are a choking hazard for small dogs. If you share one, break it up.

Choose lower-fat treats such as carrot or apple pieces. Extras like this should stay a small part of the day's food. A common vet guideline is that treats and extras make up no more than about 10 percent of daily calories. This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Dogs differ by size, age and health, so ask your veterinarian if your dog has a medical condition, is a puppy, or is on a special diet.

Mixed nut bowls often include macadamia nuts, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to dogs, along with salt and flavourings. Never offer a mixed nut bowl to a dog.

Cashew butter should be plain and xylitol-free, and still given only in tiny amounts. Cashew milk is not a necessary drink for dogs, and may contain sweeteners.

After eating cashews, watch for vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain or lack of appetite. If these appear or are severe, call your vet.

One or two plain unsalted cashews is the most for a large dog, and half of one for a small dog. They are high in fat, so a handful is a lot for any dog.

Chop for small dogs.

Common mistakes include offering salted or flavoured cashews, giving mixed nuts, and leaving a bowl on a low table. Another is giving cashew butter with sugar or xylitol.

If your dog ate a lot, watch for vomiting and diarrhea, and call your vet.

Puppies and small dogs can choke on whole nuts. Seniors and dogs prone to pancreatitis should avoid them. Dogs with nut allergies should avoid them.

If you are unsure, ask your vet.

Nuts are not all alike for dogs. The ASPCA lists macadamia nuts as toxic, with weakness, tremors, vomiting and a high temperature as possible signs. It lists almonds, pecans and walnuts mainly as high in fat, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea and possibly pancreatitis. Cashews and peanuts are not on the toxic lists, but they share the same fat concern, so a handful is a lot for a dog.

Because mixed nuts and nut-based treats often contain several kinds, the safest approach is to keep nuts out of your dog's reach altogether. Flavoured and salted nuts add salt and seasonings. Chocolate-covered nuts add another danger. If your dog eats a large quantity of any nut, or any quantity of macadamia, call your vet or a poison helpline.