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Almonds are a great snack for humans. But, can dogs eat almonds? The answer is no. While almonds might not be as as toxic as some nuts, they are one of those foods canine companions can’t digest as easily as people.
Why Are Almonds Bad For Dogs?
Although almonds, themselves, are not likely to be toxic to dogs, they are known to sometimes harbor a certain kind of mold called Aspergillus mold, which contains Aflatoxin. This substance can cause poisoning in your dog, as canines are particularly affected by it.
Many almonds are covered in salt and other seasonings that can be harmful to dogs. Too much salt can cause water retention, which is especially dangerous for dogs with heart conditions. In large quantities, salt consumption can lead to salt toxicity. Spices and seasonings may taste good to dogs, but many of them can lead to gastrointestinal upset.
Even if you give your dog plain, mold-free nuts with no added seasoning or salt, there are still several dangers. Almonds are high in phosphorus, which can make bladder stones more likely to form. The high fat content can lead to gastrointestinal upset in the short term and conditions like obesity and pancreatitis in the long term.
Dogs’ digestive systems don’t process the protein in almonds well, which can cause gastrointestinal blockages. Additionally, the small, hard nuts are choking hazards, especially for smaller dogs or dogs who don’t completely chew before swallowing.
As with almost any food, dogs may have an allergic reaction to almonds. Rarely, this can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition. If you see the signs of an allergic reaction, including sneezing, coughing, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, contact your vet right away.
But what about things that are just almond flavored and don’t contain the full nuts? Well, almond flavored products often contain sugar, artificial sweeteners, chemicals, and other things that would harm your dog’s health.
Make sure you read all labels. It’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian before sharing any human food with your dog.
Why Almonds Are Bad for Dogs
While dogs might love the taste of almonds, consuming them can cause gastric intestinal distress. If your dog accidentally eats a few, be on the lookout for these symptoms:
Almonds, like most nuts, are high in fat and can put your pup at risk of developing pancreatitis. It’s a serious condition that requires the attention of your veterinarian.
This snack also poses another dangerous problem: obstruction. Almonds can block your dog’s esophagus, intestines, or windpipe, especially in small breeds. These obstructions can be fatal if not treated, and they occasionally require surgery.
Flavored almonds come with unique risks. The spices and flavorings can irritate your dog’s stomach, while the salt in the seasoning can lead to water retention and salt toxicity if consumed in large quantities.
FAQ
What do I do if my dog ate almonds?
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