Can dogs have pistachios? Get to know whether or not Pistachios can be given to dogs, its possible side effects, its symptoms, and the healthy options.
Can Dogs Have Pistachios? The Ultimate Guide to Pet Safety.
When you have ever snacked on pistachios and you watch your dog begging to have a taste of it, you would wonder, Can dogs have pistachios? In short- dogs can eat a very small amount of pistachios but this is not advisable. Pistachios are not very toxic to dogs as compared to the macadamia nuts but still, there are a few health hazards associated with eating it particularly in large amounts or in a regular number.
On whether to keep the pistachios, its dangers, safe eating guidelines, signs of getting poisoned, and healthier food options which your major part of the family, DEACIDS, will most certainly enjoy, all will be well, informed, and safe!
Are Pistachios Safe for Dogs? The Short Answer
Pistachios are not dangerous to dogs, but it is also unsafe because it contains high-fat levels, may also cause choking, and may have molds.
Hence, veterinarians do not suggest treating oneself with pistachios.
Why They Aren’t Ideal for Dogs
- High fat content –High fat can lead to digestive discomfort or to pancreatitis, which is a life-threatening illness.
- The shells may cause choking or obstruction of the gut.
- Pistachios can have aflatoxin, which is a poisonous mold that is dangerous to the liver of a dog.
- Most types of pistachio snacks are salty or flavoured, which dogs should not have.
Nutritional Analysis: Why Pistachios are Bad.
Pistachios are healthy in terms of protein, antioxidants, vitamin B6 and healthy fats to humans. However, dogs do not metabolize fats.
Main Risks
- High Fat Content
Dogs do not require much fat compared to human beings. Too much can cause:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Obesity
Pancreatitis (which may be fatal)
- Aflatoxin Contamination
Pistachios are susceptible to moulds. Aflatoxin poisoning will destroy the liver of a dog, and lead to chronic disease.
- Salt Toxicity
Salted pistachios can cause:
Dehydration
Sodium ion poisoning
Loss of thirst and urination.
- Choking Hazard
The shell may easily be lodged in the throat of a dog or its intestines- emergency surgery is necessary.
What Will Happen to the Dog that has eaten Pistachios by accident?
When your dog runs off with a pistachio or two, then remain calm. It is uncommon to find a one or two unshelled and unseasoned pistachios that will cause serious harm.
Observations to note in the patient include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Excessive thirst
- Restlessness or shaking
In case of occurrence of symptoms, please call your veterinarian.
Dogs: Warning Signs Pistachio Poisoning.
In spite of being very uncommon, toxicity can result in a pistachio poisoning in case a dog consumes large amounts of the pistachios or mouldy nuts.
These are indications of Pistachio or Aflatoxin Toxicity:
- Yellowing of eyes or gums
- Seizures
- Weakness
- Swollen abdomen
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Severe lethargy
These conditions involve the urgent action of a veterinarian.
Will Pistachio Ice Cream, Pistachio Butter, or Pistachio Shells be eaten by the dogs?
Pistachio Ice Cream – NO
Includes sugar, dairy, and in some cases, xylitol that is fatal to dogs.
Pistachio Butter- NOT RECOMMENDED
Even small amounts contain:
- High fat
- Salt
- Flavorings
This can cause irritation to the stomach of a dog.
Pistachio Shells- ABSOLUTELY NOT.
Very risky because of the risks of choking and bowel obstruction.
The Question of the Number of Pistachios a Dog Can Safely Eat.
Pistachios should not be appreciated at all, but in case you decide to do it, it should be minimal.
Safe Rule:
1-2 unsalted, unshelled pistachios per maximum, and infrequently.
Avoid if your dog is:
- A small breed
- Overweight
- Has pancreatitis history
- Has gastrointestinal sensitivities.
But here, there are still a lot of safer things to give.
Healthy Dog-safe Substitutes of Pistachios.
The alternative to pistachios is to use dog-friendly alternatives such as:
- Peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- Plain peanuts (unsalted)
- unsalted cashews taken in small portions.
- Pumpkin seeds
- Blueberries
- Apple slices
- Bananas
- Canine dog treats that are programmed to digest food.
These are less hazardous and they are nutritious without the risks posed by the pistachios.
How to Keep your Dog Safe of Nut-Related Vulnerabilities.
Dogs like the scent of nuts and particularly pistachios so keep them out of reach.
Tips to Keep Dogs Safe:
- Store the use of nut bowls out of coffee tables.
- Secure pantry doors.
- Do not leave the shells of pistachios in the open trash can.
- One can train dogs on leave it, to avoid snack stealing.
These are some easy routines to prevent some dangerous circumstances- and expensive vet bills.
FAQ:
- Can dogs have pistachios?
Dogs are able to, but not supposed to eat pistachios. They are dangerous digestively and in respect of safety.
- Are pistachios toxic to dogs?
They are not toxic per se, and may trigger a pancreatitis, stomach upset and aflatoxin poisoning.
- Is it possible to feed dogs the pistachios without the shell?
Still not recommended. Shell removal causes the reduction in risks of choking, but does not cause the minimization of fat or mould risks.
- What would happen to my dog, the one that ate pistachio shells?
Contact your vet. Shells may cause obstructions that lead to emergency operations.
- Is it possible to have dogs with salty pistachios?
No. Salt may cause sodium poisoning and apparent extreme dehydration.
- What nuts can dogs eat safely?
In moderation, peanuts, cashews and hazelnuts (unsalted with no flavor additives) should be more permissible.
- What nuts are toxic to dogs?
Macadamia nuts are costly poisonous nuts. Almonds and walnuts can lead to digestive complications and mould poisoning.
- Which is the best substitute of pistachios to dogs?
Peanut butter free of xylitol, pumpkin seeds, blueberries or dog safe treats.
Conclusion:
Even though it is technically safe for dogs to eat pistachios, they are neither a safe nor recommended snack. This is because of the risks involved compared to the benefits:
- High fat levels
- Mold contamination hazards
- Choking risks from shells
- Salt and seasoning toxicity
To ensure the health of your dog, you should resort to safer and snacks recommended to dogs that are healthy and that your dog will not be exposed to dangers.
Also read- Best 3 ways can dogs eat blackberries