Can dogs eat walnuts?
UNSAFE Category: Nut · Reviewed September 2026
Black walnuts contain juglone, toxic to dogs, and moldy walnuts of any type grow tremorgenic mycotoxins that cause seizures. Store-bought English walnuts in small amounts are lower risk, but the combination of mold risk and high fat makes all walnuts a poor choice. Pancreatitis follows high-fat treats in susceptible dogs.
Symptoms to watch for
- tremors
- vomiting
- seizures
- abdominal pain
If you suspect poisoning: call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (available 24/7). Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
Quick answers
Can dogs eat walnuts?
No. Black walnuts contain juglone, toxic to dogs, and moldy walnuts of any type grow tremorgenic mycotoxins that cause seizures. Store-bought English walnuts in small amounts are lower risk, but the combination of mold risk and high fat makes all walnuts a poor choice. Pancreatitis follows high-fat treats in susceptible dogs.
What are the symptoms if my dog eats walnuts?
Watch for tremors, vomiting, seizures, abdominal pain. Symptoms may appear within hours; when in doubt, call your vet.
What should I do if my dog ate walnuts?
Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away. Do not wait for symptoms — early treatment is dramatically cheaper and safer.
Related foods
Can dogs eat macadamia nuts? · Can dogs eat almonds? · Can dogs eat cashews? · Can dogs eat pistachios? · Can dogs eat pecans? · Can dogs eat peanuts?
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control. This page is informational and is not veterinary advice.