Can Dogs Have Pistachios? Better Options


Maybe no, maybe so. The answer to can dogs have pistachios is not so simple. Every pistachio lover enjoys the task of cracking open those shells and enjoying the salty savor of a pistachio. However, that pup of yours that watches you while you crack those shells might not enjoy the pistachios.

The next time you find yourself enjoying some pistachios and thinking, “Can dogs have pistachios?” remember the following:

 

Why Can Dogs Have Pistachios?

Technically, it’s very uncommon for dogs to have any type of pistachio allergy. So, in regards to allergies, pistachios pose no risk to your furry friend’s health.

So you’re likely safe to feed your pup one or two pistachios. Such a small amount certainly lowers any possible risks to your precious pup’s health.

While the small amount of pistachios your dog can eat won’t really benefit them, pistachios do contain a number of health vitamins and nutrients. Pistachios contain omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium.

However, pistachios pose a number of health risks for your canine companion in other areas.

 

Risky Business

Like many other nuts, pistachios run the risk of harming your fur baby’s health. Primarily, pistachios create the risk of upsetting your dog’s tummy, obstructing their digestive system, or even causing pancreatitis.

Also, the shells of the pistachio are a choking hazard. While obvious, it still needs to be said.

Pistachios put your pup at risk for an upset stomach due to the high amount of fat found in these green nuts. Dogs don’t metabolize fat as well as us hoomans do, so any high fat food puts your dog at risk for an upset tummy. Especially if your pup consumes a lot of it.

By the way, did you know the pistachio used to be dyed red to make it appear more appetizing? But due to an incredibly high amount of the population being allergic to red dye, pistachio companies stopped dying the nuts.

Because the U.S. produces around 75% of pistachios in the world, a dog owner living in the U.S. is likely to have their pup consume a pistachio at some point. Either accidentally, or because you just can’t resist those sweet, puppy dog eyes.

Like I said above, your dog eating one or two pistachio nuts really is no cause for concern. However, a dog that consumes a large number of pistachios, especially over a long period of time, is at risk for stomach problems.

Primarily, a dog that consumes a lot of pistachios on a consistent basis is at risk for developing pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is a disease that manifests when too much fat is consumed for a long period of time. While the chances of your dog getting pancreatitis remains low, it’s worth noting.

If you ever find your dog got into a stash of pistachios, watch out for these symptoms:

  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Wet, Greasy Poops
  • Dehydration

A dog exhibiting any of these symptoms needs a trip to the vet. The vet will take the proper precautions and get that precious pup back in ship shape.

 

Can Dogs Have Pistachios? It’s Not The Best Snack

While your dog can have the occasional pistachio, there are plenty of better, healthier snacks. Feed that precious pup of yours an apple slice or a bit of banana.

As a fellow dog owner, I know what it’s like to give your pup a bite of delicious hooman food. You love making the day a little bit brighter for your pup.

Oh, and it’s also great to earn some of those crucial love points! Especially if some pesky family member attempts to claim that the dog loves them most. You’ll prove them wrong!


Chase Correll