A dog with an unsure expression looking at hazelnuts, indicating caution for dog consumption.

Can Dogs Eat Hazelnuts?

No, dogs should not eat hazelnuts. While hazelnuts themselves are not inherently toxic, they present a risk of choking and can cause gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, any mold or fungi that may grow on hazelnuts can be harmful.

A photo of Stefan Stumpfl, the co-author of this article.

By Stefan Stumpfl, in collaboration with Dr. Ali Raza.

Updated on Jun 29, 2024

Did You Know?

Dogs can sometimes develop an upset stomach after eating hazelnuts due to their high fat content.

Hazelnuts

CAUTION

Nutrition

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars🍏🍏🍏

Taste

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars🍪🍪🍪🍪

Digestibility

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars👍👍👍

Feeding Frequency

MONTHLY

Allergic Risk

MODERATE

Benefits and Risks of Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, which might tempt you to share them with your dog. However, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Hazelnuts can cause choking and intestinal blockage, especially in smaller dogs. They can also lead to gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting and diarrhea.

Other Products Containing Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts are a common ingredient in various foods and snacks. Here are a few to watch out for:

  • Nutella: Contains chocolate, which is highly toxic to dogs.
  • Baked Goods: Often high in sugar and may contain other harmful ingredients like raisins.
  • Trail Mixes: Typically contain a variety of nuts, some of which are toxic to dogs (e.g., macadamia nuts).

How to Feed Hazelnuts to Your Dog?

It’s best to avoid feeding hazelnuts to your dog altogether. If you must, ensure they are plain, unsalted, and thoroughly chopped into very small pieces, but remember: even then, it's not recommended due to the risk factors involved.

What If Your Dog Reacts Badly to Hazelnuts?

If your dog shows signs of distress after eating hazelnuts, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or choking, contact your veterinarian immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking professional help.

Safer Alternatives to Hazelnuts

There are plenty of other snacks that are safe and beneficial for dogs:

  • Carrots: Low-calorie and great for dental health.
  • Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
  • Pumpkin: Excellent for digestion and easy to prepare.

Conclusion

While hazelnuts aren’t toxic, they pose enough risks to make sharing them with your dog not worth the potential trouble. When introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, it's best to consult with your veterinarian. Stay safe, and keep your furry friend’s health top of mind!