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As humans, we often enjoy nuts like roasted or salted almonds as a tasty afternoon snack.
Even though almonds are healthy for us, they are not safe for dogs.
The information provided herein is for informational purposes only.
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Are Almonds Toxic to Dogs?
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Some nuts are genuinely poisonous to dogs.
Unlike macadamia nuts, plain regular almonds are technically not toxic to dogs.
However, there are multiple types of almonds and some are poisonous for dogs.
Specifically, bitter almonds, also known as Chinese almonds, are toxic to dogs.
Chinese almonds, or bitter almonds, are actually apricot kernels.
Thesebitter almondscontain amygdalin, which breaks down in the body to hydrogen cyanide.
Therefore, bitter almonds pose a risk of cyanide poisoning which can be rapidly fatal.
Almond extracts and liqueurs made from bitter almonds and Chinese almonds are also potential sources of cyanide poisoning.
Dogs with cyanide poisoning will initially have bright red gums that progress to blue.
Severe convulsions and death can occur in 30 to 45 minutes.
Therefore, if you suspect your dog has ingested bitter almonds, immediate treatment is crucial.
Therefore, almonds should never be fed to dogs as a treat.
Dogs dont chew their food thoroughly all the time and could swallow whole almonds, causing an obstruction.
Do not attempt to induce vomiting at home without consulting your vet.
Additionally, dogs dont digest almonds well and they can upset your dogs stomach.
This is because nuts, including almonds, are high in fat and oil.
Eating almonds could result in gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Almonds Can Give Dogs Pancreatitis
Nuts are high in fat.
One possible trigger forpancreatitisin dogs is eating something rich or high in fat.
Even a single serving of fatty food can result in pancreatitis.
Therefore, if your dog consumes almonds, especially in large quantities, he may develop pancreatitis.
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas.
In this condition, the digestive enzymes are inappropriately released, causing damage to the pancreas and surrounding tissues.
This results in widespread inflammation in the body.
In severe cases of pancreatitis, dogs can subsequently develop diabetes mellitus.
In severe cases, dogs can develop blood clotting disorders and organ failure.
Garlic andonionare toxic to dogs and destroy red blood cells, resulting in potentially life-threatening anemia.
Seasoned almonds also often contain salt.
If dogs ingest excess amounts of salt, also known as sodium chloride, they can develop electrolyte imbalances.
Signs ofsalt toxicityinclude vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, muscle tremors, and even seizures.
For example, one bang out of aflatoxin has been linked to liver cancer in humans.
Many packaged nuts are susceptible to aflatoxin contamination.
Almonds can become contaminated with aflatoxin-producing mold both pre- and post-harvest.
If your dog eats almonds contaminated with aflatoxin, he is at risk of aflatoxin poisoning.
Unfortunately, there is no antidote for aflatoxin poisoning.
So how can you prevent your pup from accidentally eating these nuts?
In general, you should avoid feeding your dog human food altogether.
Almonds should be stored in secure containers; you might consider using child-proof containers.
Although almonds are not toxic, they can still be harmful to dogs.
FAQs
Is It Okay if My Dog Ate 1 Almond?
Even if your dog only ate a couple of almonds, you should notify your veterinarian.
Your vet can help determine if any other steps need to be taken.
Can Dogs Drink Almond Milk?
Almond milk is a plant-based milk substitute manufactured from almonds.
Therefore, its best to avoid giving your dog almond milk.
Can I Feed My Dog Almond Butter?
Almond butter can contain dangerous ingredients like xylitol and salt.
