Usually skip

Can dogs eat walnuts?

Walnuts are best kept away from dogs. They are fatty, awkward to chew, and moldy walnuts can carry tremorgenic toxins; black walnuts are especially concerning.

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 walnuts for dogs

Low-fat dog treats are safer than hard, fatty walnuts.

Low-fat dog treats

Replace fatty walnuts with a lighter dog reward.

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Soft dog treats

Tender treats avoid hard whole-nut choking hazards.

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Healthy dog treats

Choose dog-focused ingredients instead of potentially moldy pantry nuts.

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How much is okay?

No routine serving is recommended. Call promptly for moldy walnuts, black walnuts, or symptoms after ingestion.

Small under 20 lb
None recommended
Whole nuts can choke.
Medium 20–50 lb
None recommended
Fatty nuts can upset stomachs.
Large 50+ lb
None recommended
Mold risk remains.

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

How to prepare them

  • Keep walnuts, shells, and baking supplies out of reach.
  • Discard old or moldy nuts safely; never share black walnuts.

Risks & exceptions

  • Moldy walnuts may contain tremorgenic toxins.
  • Whole nuts can choke and their fat can trigger digestive upset.

Walnuts are a skip. Moldy or black walnuts warrant prompt veterinary advice because toxin risk is higher.

If they ate too many

Mold-related signs can be serious and need prompt attention.

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Call your vet / pet poison line if:

  • Tremors or wobbliness
  • Moldy or black walnut exposure
  • Repeated vomiting

Save a sample or photo if safe and contact a veterinarian or pet poison resource promptly for moldy-nut exposure.

FAQ

Are walnuts toxic to dogs?

They are not a good snack; moldy and black walnuts are particularly concerning.

Can dogs eat walnut shells?

No. Shells can choke or obstruct.

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