Yes, dogs can eat cashews in very small amounts. Plain unsalted cashews are not toxic to dogs and may provide some minerals and healthy fats. They are high in calories and fat so they should only be given occasionally and never in large portions.
Last updated:
March 26, 2026
The table below highlights the key nutrients found in this food and how they may impact your dog’s health. Nutritional values can help determine whether a food is beneficial, should be fed in moderation, or is best avoided.
Only feed plain unsalted cashews. Salted, flavoured (e.g. chocolate) or spiced varieties may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs. Because cashews are high in fat they should only be given occasionally and in small amounts. Large portions can lead to digestive upset or increase the risk of pancreatitis. Cashews should never replace balanced dog food and should always be treated as a small treat.
Important: We do our best to ensure the information on this page is accurate and based on reputable animal health sources. However, this website is intended for general informational purposes only and the content has not been individually reviewed or approved by a veterinarian.
Every dog is different and reactions to foods can vary. If you have concerns about your dog’s diet or health, it is always best to speak with a qualified veterinarian.
If you believe any information on this page is incorrect or outdated, please let us know via our Contact Us page so we can review and update it.
Here are answers to some of common questions that dog owners ask about this food's safety and nutrition
Dogs should not eat cashews every day. Although plain cashews are not toxic they are high in fat and calories which can lead to weight gain or digestive problems if fed regularly. They are best treated as an occasional snack rather than a daily addition to your dog’s diet. Balanced dog food should always remain the primary source of nutrition.
The amount of cashews a dog can eat depends on their size but it should always be very small. Most dogs should only have one to a few plain unsalted cashews occasionally. Larger portions can cause digestive upset because of the high fat content. If you choose to offer cashews keep the serving small and infrequent.
If your dog eats too many cashews watch for symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea or stomach discomfort. Provide access to fresh water and monitor your dog closely over the next several hours. Mild symptoms may pass on their own but if your dog shows repeated vomiting, lethargy or signs of abdominal pain it is best to contact your veterinarian for advice.
Puppies should not be given cashews regularly. Their digestive systems are still developing and high fat foods can easily cause stomach upset. If a puppy accidentally eats a small piece it is usually not harmful but it is best not to offer nuts intentionally. Puppies benefit more from balanced puppy food that provides the right nutrients for growth rather than calorie dense snacks.
Small dogs can eat a tiny piece of cashew occasionally but portions must stay extremely small. Because of their body size even a single nut can represent a large amount of fat and calories. Feeding several cashews could quickly lead to digestive upset or unwanted weight gain. If offered, break the nut into smaller pieces and treat it as a rare snack rather than a regular treat.
Senior dogs may tolerate small amounts of cashews but they should only be offered rarely. Older dogs often have slower metabolisms and may be more sensitive to fatty foods. Large amounts could contribute to digestive upset or pancreatitis. If your senior dog enjoys a cashew give only a small piece and focus on balanced meals and lower fat treats for regular feeding.
Cashews are not an ideal treat for overweight dogs because they are high in calories and fat. Even a few nuts can significantly increase daily calorie intake which can slow weight loss. If your dog needs to lose weight it is better to avoid cashews and offer lower calorie snacks such as carrot slices or green beans that provide fibre without the extra fat.
