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Can dogs eat cashews?

Cashews are not macadamia nuts, which are toxic to dogs, but that does not make cashews an everyday treat. A plain unsalted cashew is usually a limited, occasional food because its fat and calories add up quickly.

Not medical advice — general pet-safety info only. Confirm with your vet before changing your dog’s diet.

Updated Jul 31, 2026 Category Nutrition

Alternatives to cashews for dogs

When you need a small reward, dog treats are easier to portion than calorie-dense nuts.

Low-fat dog treats

For a frequent reward, low-fat treats are a better fit than cashews' concentrated oils.

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Grain-free dog treats

These dog-focused options give ingredient-conscious households an alternative to nuts from the pantry.

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Small dog treats

Tiny, purpose-made treats are easier to chew and portion than a whole cashew.

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How much is okay?

If you offer any, use only plain unsalted cashews and keep the portion very small. Skip cashew butter, trail mix, and flavored nuts.

Small under 20 lb
1/2 cashew or none
Only if your dog chews food carefully.
Medium 20–50 lb
1 plain cashew
Rarely, not daily.
Large 50+ lb
1–2 plain cashews
High fat still limits the portion.

Rule of thumb: treats of all kinds should stay under ~10% of daily calories.

How to prepare them

  • Choose only plain, unsalted, unflavored cashews.
  • Break a cashew into small pieces for a small dog.
  • Keep trail mix, chocolate-coated nuts, and macadamias inaccessible.
  • Do not use cashews as a frequent training reward.
  • Offer a low-fat dog snack instead for regular treating.

Risks & exceptions

  • High fat can upset the stomach and is a concern for dogs prone to pancreatitis.
  • Whole nuts can be gulped or lodged, especially by small dogs.
  • Salted and flavored cashews add sodium, garlic, onion, or spicy coatings.
  • Mixed nuts can include toxic macadamias or other unsafe ingredients.

Cashews are not toxic macadamia nuts, but their fat and calorie density mean plain unsalted pieces should stay rare and small.

If they ate too many

A small plain cashew may cause no problem. Larger or rich exposures are more likely to bring digestive signs.

  • Vomiting
  • Loose stool
  • Gas
  • Reduced appetite

Call your vet / pet poison line if:

  • Repeated vomiting or severe belly pain
  • Trouble breathing or choking
  • Possible macadamia, chocolate, or raisin exposure
  • Weakness or collapse

FAQ

Are cashews toxic to dogs?

Plain cashews are not toxic like macadamia nuts, but they are high in fat and should be limited.

Can dogs eat cashew butter?

It is fatty and can contain added salt or sweeteners. Never offer a product containing xylitol.

Can dogs eat salted cashews?

No. Salted cashews add unnecessary sodium and may include seasonings.

What nuts are toxic to dogs?

Macadamia nuts are a key concern. Mixed nuts can also bring choking, mold, salt, or flavoring risks.

Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from product links. Safety guidance is editorial and may change — verify with your veterinarian for your dog.