Can dogs eat cashews?
Yes, a few plain cashews as an occasional treat are generally safe: shelled, unsalted and unseasoned. They are high in fat, so too many can cause tummy upset or pancreatitis. Avoid mixed nuts, which may contain toxic macadamia nuts.
Updated:
Why
Cashews aren't toxic, but they are a high-fat snack: eating too many can lead to tummy upset, pancreatitis and weight gain. Salted cashews add salt, which in excess is harmful. The biggest risk comes from other nuts in a mix, such as macadamias. Some dogs may react with swelling, itching or hives.
What to do
Watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, swelling, itching or hives and call your vet if they appear. If your dog ate a large amount, salted nuts or a mix that may contain macadamia nuts, call your vet straight away.
How to give it
Only a few plain cashews, shelled and unsalted, never from a mixed-nut bag.
Questions and answers
Why not mixed nuts?
Mixes may contain macadamia nuts, which are very toxic to dogs, and are often salted.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- Can Dogs Eat Cashews? — American Kennel Club, Anna Burke (updated 2025-02-18)
- Which Human Foods Can Dogs Eat and Which Are Dangerous? — American Kennel Club (Updated Oct 21, 2026)
- Can Dogs Eat Acorns and Other Tree Nuts? — American Kennel Club, Harriet Meyers (updated 2025-10-29)
- Can Dogs Eat Nuts? — American Kennel Club, Anna Burke (updated 2025-02-21)
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic dog: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.