Can dogs eat walnuts?
No, it is best not to. A walnut or two is unlikely to cause harm, but walnuts are fatty and can be a choking hazard. Mouldy walnuts, such as old ones fallen in the garden, and black walnuts are much more dangerous.
Updated:
Why
Walnuts are high in fat, which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and possibly pancreatitis. Mould can grow on the shell or kernel and produce toxins that can cause tremors, seizures and vomiting. Black walnuts are very toxic to dogs and may contain juglone.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Muscle tremors or seizures (mouldy nuts)
- Choking
What to do
After a walnut or two, watch for vomiting or diarrhoea. If your dog ate a black walnut or mouldy walnuts, contact your vet right away and don't wait for signs; also call if tremors, seizures or choking appear.
Questions and answers
Why are fallen walnuts in the garden a risk?
Nuts lying on the ground can get damp and grow mould, which can be toxic to dogs.
What about black walnuts?
Black walnuts are very toxic to dogs. Contact your vet immediately if your dog eats one.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets — ASPCA Animal Poison Control (no date; ©2026)
- Can Dogs Eat Walnuts? — American Kennel Club, Nandini Maharaj (updated 2025-02-04)
- Can Dogs Eat Acorns and Other Tree Nuts? — American Kennel Club, Harriet Meyers (updated 2025-10-29)
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.