Can Dogs Eat Pistachios

Dogs are our humble friends and companions but are always eager to enjoy whatever you eat. Watching your dog take the pistachio out of the shell melts the heart of most dog owners. With the internet full of information, it makes sense to ask “Can Dogs Eat Pistachios”  before we offer them to the dogs. Read on to find out.

What Are Pistachios

Is pistachio a member of the cashew family? The pistachio is a tree nut that grows on the Pistacia vera tree, which is common in hot climates like regions in Central Asia and the Middle East. In the United States, the majority of pistachios come from California.

Benefits To Giving Pistachios As Treats To Your Dog

Pistachios, like other nuts, have high proteins which means they can satisfy while providing high essential minerals and vitamins. These antioxidants are essential in long-term health dog treats. Pistachios also have vitamins A, C, B6, and fiber and are rich in potassium, magnesium, and iron that your dog needs in its diet.

1. Vitamin B6

Pistachios are a rich source of vitamin B6, which has many benefits to your dog’s health. Vitamin B6 is an essential vitamin that promotes healthy brain functioning, growth and development, and heart health in your pup.

 2. Fiber

Pistachios are an excellent fiber source that helps digestion and smooth bowel movements. Fiber helps your dog feel satisfied for a long time, and it is diarrhea and constipation reliever.

3. Potassium

Pistachio is an excellent source of potassium which has several benefits to your dog’s health. Potassium helps in the proper functioning of the dog’s health. It boosts the normal electrical charges, nerves, and muscles.

You should not give pistachios to your dog as the main meal. Although pistachios have lots of proteins, they are not enough since your dog wants a meat-based balanced diet that is balanced on the dog’s specific needs, but as a snack, it is ok to give your dog pistachios.

How To Enjoy Pistachios With Your Dog

Enjoying your pistachios and sharing some of them with your dog is ok. Don’t give your dog the shell. There is a reason that you do not eat it yourself. Shells are hard to chew and digest and can pose a choking hazard or bowel obstruction.

Pistachios are totally fine but only in small quantities. Since dogs are omnivores, they might eat anything, but overloading them can cause stomach problems.

What Is Pistachio Poisoning?

Mildew can develop in poorly stored or low-quality pistachios. Aflatoxin, a cancerous mold, can develop in poorly stored or low-quality pistachios. Aflatoxin is harmful to dogs and is a nightamer to digest, leading to further dog complications. This is called “pistachio poisoning.” Aspergillus mold is the most detrimental component of nuts to your dog’s health. Dogs are vulnerable to the aflatoxin produced by mold.

Pistachio Poisoning Symptoms In Dogs

The following are symptoms of pistachio poisoning in dogs from Aspergillus mold:

• Appetite loss
• Liver failure
• Jaundice
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Orange-colored urine

 

Aspergillus mold causes aflatoxins that are detrimental to the dog’s liver. Aflatoxins are a family of toxins produced by a particular fungi from crops such as peanuts, corn, cottonseed, and tree nuts such as pistachios and peanuts. They are mycotoxins which means they are dangerous to both dogs and humans.

How to Feed Your Dog Pistachio Nuts Safely

Does your pup love pistachio nuts? The best news is that there are several ways you can safely share Pistachio Nuts without causing them harm.

Pistachio Ice Cream

If your dog loves sweet treats, you should avoid giving him/her a portion of pistachio ice cream no matter how much your pup might be begging with its puppy eyes. It is not the pistachios that harm the dog but the ice cream. Ice cream contains dairy, which is a major cause of allergies in dogs. It is easily the main cause of upset stomach issues in dogs, such as diarrhea and vomiting.

Pistachio Shells

As mentioned earlier, remove the pistachio shells or buy pistachios with no -shells to make it easier to avoid tragedies. Pistachio shells can cause gastrointestinal issues, not forgetting the choking hazard they pose.

Pistachio Nuts

If you feel like giving your canine friend some pistachio nuts, you need to keep them as unsalted as possible. Excess salt can be problematic to your canine friend.

How Many Pistachios Can Dogs Eat at a Time?

How many pistachios a dog can eat hugely depends on the dog’s size. The rule of thumb should be just a few per day since pistachios are high in calories. Your dog should not get used to non-dog food since this is a risk factor for obesity in dogs. Alternatively, you can use pistachios as a high-value treat for training purposes.

Other Healthy Snacks for Dogs

As much as pistachios are safe for your dog and have nutritional benefits, they can easily become junk food. Always use the 10 percent rule. Not more than your dog’s snacks should come from treats.

There are other healthy snacks for your up. They are both healthy and delicious for your dog. They include:

•         Green beans
•         Squash
•         Pumpkin (cooked or canned and unseasoned)
•         Broccoli
•         Cucumbers
•         Carrots

 

“Can Dogs Eat Pistachios?” Final Thoughts!

NO! Sorry to disappoint. Pistachios are not worth the saltiness, extra fats, and risk for infection. It is better to avoid them.

You should call your vet if your dog somehow swallowed pistachios while not looking. They will monitor your dog and establish if they have any signs of stomach uneasiness. However, it fits just a few pistachios. You don’t have to panic. Your dog will be fine. Just make sure you give them their healthy diet.