If you’re the proud parent of a pup, you know how important it is to make sure they get all the nutrition they need.
But when it comes to treats, do almonds fit the bill? Can dogs eat almonds? Keep reading to find out.
Can Dogs Eat Almonds?
The short answer is yes; in some cases, almonds can be a healthy treat for your dog. However, there are certain things you should keep in mind before giving them to your pup.
Almonds are high in fat and calories, so if your dog is overweight or has a sensitive digestive system, almonds might not be the best choice. Additionally, almonds can pose a choking hazard for smaller breeds of dog as well as puppies who haven’t yet developed their molars.
In addition to these safety concerns, raw almonds contain traces of cyanide—a toxic substance that can cause health problems if consumed in large quantities.
This means that any almond treats you give your pup should always be cooked or blanched first. Furthermore, only give your pup plain almonds without added sugar or salt as those ingredients could cause gastrointestinal distress in some pets.
Lastly, always introduce new foods into your pup’s diet slowly and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction like vomiting or diarrhea.
Conclusion
Overall, if given sparingly and safely prepared, almonds can be an occasional treat for most dogs as part of an overall healthy diet.
However, it’s important to remember that nuts should never replace a balanced meal plan and should only ever constitute a small fraction of your pet’s daily caloric intake.
Ultimately when it comes to feeding your dog anything new—including almonds—it’s best to err on the side of caution and check with your veterinarian first!
