Can Dogs Eat Pistachios?

Yes, dogs can have pistachios, as long as they’re unsalted, plain, and have no shell. Think of it as a once-in-a-while snack, not a daily treat. But if your dog has a known allergy to pistachios or other tree nuts, please avoid feeding foods that include these ingredients. 

Do not, however, give your dog salted or seasoned pistachios or pistachios in their shells, as they can be harmful.  

Pistachios aren’t a must-have for your dog’s diet, but they do offer some helpful nutrients. When fed as an occasional treat, they can provide: 

• Healthy fats that support skin and coat health 
• Protein for muscle support 
• Antioxidants, including vitamin E, polyphenols, and tocopherols  
• Fiber to support digestion 
• Vitamin B1, B6, and many micronutrients, including phosphorus, copper, and manganese 

However, dogs can get these nutrients from more digestible and complete sources, like high-quality dog food, such as Hill’s Science Diet or Purina Pro Plan. 

Pistachios aren’t toxic to dogs, but that doesn’t mean they’re risk-free. If your dog eats too many or those with their shells, it could lead to an upset stomach or worse. Potential risks include: 

• Upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea 
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) from high-fat content 
• Choking or intestinal blockage if shells are eaten 
• Salt toxicity from salted pistachios 
• Onion/garlic toxicity from seasoned/flavored pistachios 
• Aflatoxin exposure (a toxin produced by mold, found in improperly stored nuts) 

Dogs should only eat pistachios in moderation. Treats—pistachios included—should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. The rest should come from a complete and balanced dog food.  

As a general guideline, here’s how many pistachios a dog can eat—but always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your dog. 

As with any new food item you offer your dog, start slowly when offering pistachios for the first time, and monitor for any side effects for 24–48 hours, like vomiting or loose stool. Taking these steps is a great starting point to ensure your pup tolerates the new addition well.  

To safely serve pistachios to your dog: 

• Remove the shell. Pistachio shells are a choking hazard and hard to digest. 
• Avoid salt and seasoning. Choose plain, unsalted pistachios only. 
• Stick to small quantities. Pistachios are high in fat, so even a few can be irritating to the digestive system. 

Here are a few ways to serve pistachios to your pup: 

• On their own as a special treat 
• Crushed and sprinkled over food as a topper 
• Mixed into a homemade dog treat, like these gingerbread icebox cookies 

You can also use a treat-dispensing toy, like the KONG Stuff a Ball Dog Toy, to turn snack time into enrichment. 

If your dog ate too many pistachios, contact your veterinarian immediately and watch for symptoms like: 

• Vomiting. diarrhea, or excess gas 
• Lethargy 
• Abdominal pain 
• Loss of appetite 

If your dog ate pistachio nuts with shells, seasoned or salted pistachios, or you notice any of the symptoms above, call your veterinarian right away for the best course of action. 

Pro Tip: A digestive supplement, like Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites, may help support gut health if your pup’s tummy is feeling off—just check with your vet first. 

Are pistachios safe for dogs? 

Yes, pistachios are safe for dogs, as long as they’re unsalted, unseasoned, and do not have shells, and are fed in moderation. 

Can puppies eat pistachios? 

It’s best to avoid giving pistachios to puppies. Their digestive systems are more sensitive, and the fat content may be too high. 

Can dogs be allergic to pistachios? 

Yes, while uncommon, dogs can be allergic to pistachios. Signs of a food allergy may include itching, hives (urticaria), swelling in the face (muzzle, around the eyes), skin irritation, ear infections, or digestive upset. If you notice any of these symptoms after your dog eats pistachios, stop feeding them and contact your veterinarian.