Yes, dogs can eat hazelnuts in small amounts. They are not toxic to dogs but they are high in fat and calories which can cause digestive upset if eaten in large quantities. Always serve plain hazelnuts with no salt, chocolate, or flavouring.
Last updated:
March 19, 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.
Hazelnuts are not toxic to dogs but they are very high in fat and calories so they should only be given in small quantities. Too many nuts can lead to digestive upset and may contribute to pancreatitis in sensitive dogs. Always make sure hazelnuts are plain and not covered in chocolate or seasoning. Because whole nuts can pose a choking risk they should be broken into smaller pieces before feeding to small dogs.
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Here are answers to some of common questions that dog owners ask about this food's safety and nutrition
Dogs should not eat hazelnuts every day. While they are not toxic they are very high in fat and calories which can quickly add up if fed regularly. Eating nuts frequently may also lead to digestive upset in some dogs. It is better to offer hazelnuts only occasionally and in small amounts if you choose to share them with your dog.
The amount of hazelnuts a dog can eat depends largely on their size. Small dogs should only have one or two nuts while larger dogs may tolerate a few more. Because hazelnuts are high in fat they should always be limited to small portions. Breaking the nuts into smaller pieces can also make them easier for dogs to chew and digest.
If your dog eats too many hazelnuts they may experience digestive upset because of the high fat content. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhoea, or stomach discomfort. Provide fresh water and monitor your dog for changes in behaviour. If your dog ate a very large amount or begins to show persistent symptoms it is best to contact a veterinarian for advice.
Puppies should generally avoid foods like hazelnuts because their digestive systems are still developing. Nuts are high in fat which may cause stomach upset in young dogs. Puppies also require balanced nutrition to support healthy growth and nuts do not provide the right balance of nutrients for their needs. If a puppy accidentally eats a small piece it is unlikely to cause harm but it should not become a regular treat.
Small dogs may struggle to chew whole hazelnuts and there is a higher risk of choking if the nuts are swallowed whole. Their smaller digestive systems may also react to the high fat content which can cause stomach upset. If offered at all hazelnuts should be crushed into very small pieces and only given occasionally. Even a couple of nuts can provide a lot of calories for a small breed.
Senior dogs can eat small amounts of hazelnuts but the high fat and calorie content means they should only be offered occasionally. Older dogs often have lower energy needs and may gain weight more easily from calorie dense foods. Some senior dogs may also have sensitive digestion so fatty foods could cause stomach upset. If given it should be a small portion and not a frequent treat.
Hazelnuts are not a good treat for overweight dogs because they are very calorie dense and high in fat. Even a small handful can add a large number of calories to a dog's daily intake. Dogs that need to lose weight should focus on lower calorie snacks such as small pieces of vegetables. Limiting high fat foods like nuts can make weight management much easier.
