We should always treat our dogs with their health in mind, so researching before you treat your dog is vital. So let’s find out if dogs can eat Hazelnuts.
Hazelnuts are not toxic to dogs; however, these nuts are solid, making them difficult for dogs to chew. Hazelnuts can cause a choking hazard to dogs and can cause intestinal blockages, leading to serious digestive issues. Weighing up and pros and cons, it would be best not to treat your dog with hazelnuts.
Choking & Blockages Explained
We now know that hazelnuts themselves are not toxic to dogs. However, due to the size, hardness and how dogs generally eat their food, they are unsafe. If your dog eats the way mine do, they generally don’t chew their food much, and these little nuts can be swallowed whole by dogs. It would help if they weren’t fed hazelnuts to reduce the possibility of choking and blockages. If your dog has eaten some hazelnuts, then don’t panic. Watch for the symptoms of intestinal blockage (Also known as bowel obstruction) from the below list, and in future always, keep hazelnuts out of your dog’s reach.
Recommended read: How To Teach A Dog To Leave It (Training)
Intestinal Blockage Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Constipation
- Straining
- Hunching
- Whining
- Bloating
- Loss of appetite
If your dog displays any of the above, please call your vet immediately.
How does a vet fix an intestine blockage of a dog?
If the object causing the blockage can not pass through, then that object will need to be surgically removed under anaesthesia. If you believe your dog may be suffering from a blockage, dont delay taking your dog to the vets. Your vet will have all the information you need on this.
Recommended read: Gut blockages in dogs.
Well-balanced dog food is the best food for a dog, and treat your dog with only foods that you know are safe for dogs. Find here dog food advice on foods that are safe and unsafe for your dog. Always do your research first as a responsible dog owner; it’s the best thing you can do to keep your dog healthy.
Nuts that are not safe for dogs
| Nut Name | Toxic Yes/No | Risk | Can dogs eat them? |
| Almonds | No | Upset stomach, choking | No |
| Hazelnuts | No | Upset stomach, choking | No |
| Hickory Nuts | Yes | Toxication, choking | No |
| Macadamia nuts | Yes | Upset stomach, choking | No |
| Pecans | Yes | Toxication, choking | No |
| Pistachios | No | Upset stomach, choking | No |
| Walnuts | Yes | Toxication, choking | No |
Recommended Read: Can Dogs Eat Hummus? [Includes Chickpeas]
Conclusion
It would be best not to feed your dog nuts; they are either toxic and the ones that aren’t toxic pose a risk of an upset stomach and intestinal blockages. It’s not worth the risk. Consider treating your dog to other choices.
Good Luck and Happy Dog Parenting
