No, dogs should not eat walnuts. While plain walnuts are not always directly toxic, they are very high in fat and can cause digestive upset in dogs. Mouldy walnuts can also contain dangerous toxins that may lead to tremors or neurological symptoms.
Last updated:
March 16, 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.
Walnuts should generally be avoided in a dog’s diet. Their high fat content can irritate the digestive system and increase the risk of pancreatitis. Whole walnuts are also large and hard which creates a choking risk and may lead to intestinal blockage if swallowed. Walnuts that have been stored outdoors or become mouldy can develop toxins that are particularly dangerous for dogs. For these reasons veterinarians usually advise keeping walnuts away from pets.
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If you believe any information on this page is incorrect or outdated, please let us know via our Contact Us page so we can review and update it.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 walnuts every day. Even though some walnuts may not cause immediate toxicity the high fat content makes them difficult for dogs to digest. Regular consumption can lead to digestive upset, weight gain or pancreatitis. In addition mouldy walnuts may contain toxins that can affect the nervous system. For safety it is best to avoid walnuts completely and choose dog safe treats instead.
There is no recommended serving size of walnuts for dogs because veterinarians generally advise not feeding them at all. If a dog accidentally eats one walnut they may be fine but multiple walnuts can lead to digestive upset due to the high fat content. Larger amounts or mouldy walnuts increase the risk of serious illness. It is best to store walnuts out of reach of pets.
If your dog eats walnuts monitor them closely for symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors or unusual behaviour. Provide fresh water and prevent further access to the nuts. Contact your veterinarian for advice if several walnuts were eaten or if any symptoms appear. Immediate veterinary care is important if your dog shows tremors, weakness or signs of neurological problems.
Puppies should never be given walnuts. Their digestive systems are still developing and high fat foods like nuts can quickly cause stomach upset. Walnuts are also a choking risk because puppies tend to swallow food without chewing properly. Even a small amount may lead to vomiting or diarrhoea. If a puppy accidentally eats a walnut it is best to monitor closely and contact a veterinarian if symptoms appear.
Small dogs are at higher risk if they eat walnuts because the nuts are large and difficult to chew. A single walnut can represent a large portion of fat and calories for a small dog which increases the chance of digestive upset. There is also a higher risk of choking or intestinal blockage. Because of these risks it is safest to avoid feeding walnuts to small dogs entirely.
Senior dogs should avoid walnuts because fatty foods can put extra strain on the digestive system and increase the risk of pancreatitis. Older dogs may also have dental problems that make chewing hard nuts difficult. If a walnut is swallowed whole it could cause choking or digestive blockage. Senior dogs are better off with softer and lower fat treats that are easier to digest.
Walnuts are a poor choice for overweight dogs because they are extremely high in calories and fat. Even a small portion can significantly increase a dog’s daily calorie intake. Feeding walnuts regularly can make weight management more difficult and may also increase the risk of pancreatitis. Low calorie vegetables such as carrot or cucumber are much better treat options for dogs trying to maintain a healthy weight.
