Can dogs eat almonds? Sure, why not. Dogs eat just about anything. These animals eat dirt, poop and even tasteless (at least to us humans) cloths, plastics and anything that would fit into their mouths. We humans love to eat almonds and for sure the dog would love the taste of almonds too. The question though should be “Is it safe for dogs to eat almonds?” Almonds are one of the people foods that must not be given to dogs.

The high protein, vitamins, minerals and healthy fat content make almonds one of the most nutritious nuts consumed by humans. This nut has a long history. It is believed that almonds were used in the rituals of different cultures. In ancient Egypt almonds were used as ingredients to bread exclusively baked for Pharaohs. Romans use the nuts to shower newlyweds to invoke fertility blessings.

Almonds have many healthful benefits to humans. The nuts keep the heart healthy as the vitamin E content was proven to be a good antioxidant that reduces artery-damaging C reactive protein. Almonds therefore reduce the risk of heart diseases. Almonds reduce bad cholesterol and improve blood circulation. These nuts are good sources of calcium thus regular consumption strengthens the bones. Almond is a healthy snack because while it is high in fiber, the calorie content is low thus it is an ideal diet for people wanting to lose weight. Apart from being an energy booster, almonds are good for the hair and the skin. With all these benefits humans can get from almonds it would not be surprising if pet parents would give the dog a few nuts whenever they eat some. Man and dogs are said to have many similarities in genetics. Apparently, the ability to tolerate almonds is one of the differences.

There are human foods that would have dangerous effects if ingested by the pet. Some nuts have more dangerous effects to the health of the pet than others. This is why some pet owners would be heard saying that they have been giving almonds but noticed no ill effects on the dog. However, nuts should not be given to dogs. Macadamia nuts and walnuts are listed by the Humane Society as dangerous human foods for the dog. Macadamia nuts are highly toxic to dogs. Ingestion of walnut shells would be dangerous to the dog. Although almonds are not included in the list, it would be better to refrain from giving the dog these nuts than to be sorry later on. Almonds may contain mild toxins that would not show harmful effects at first but would build up in the dog’s system overtime if ingestion is continued. For dogs, nuts are hard to digest. Dogs don’t know when to stop eating. Large amounts of almond nuts ingested can result to stomach upset. Vomiting and diarrhea are possible consequences of eating almonds. All nuts are high in fat content. Ingestion of foods with high fat content can cause the inflammation of the pancreas. Pancreatitis is a life threatening disease.

The exact reasons why almonds are dangerous to dogs are as yet unknown. But to be on the safe side, it would be best if the dog is prevented from eating this delicious human food.

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