The AKC advises against almonds because they can obstruct the food pipe or intestines, especially in small dogs that swallow them whole. Their high fat content can cause vomiting, diarrhoea or pancreatitis, and seasoned almonds add salt, garlic or onion. Almond butter is less of a choking risk but still fatty; check it has no xylitol.
Can dogs eat it?
Can Dogs Eat Almonds?
Updated October 2026 · By the Hushku editorial team · 2 sources
Best avoided
It's best avoided. Almonds aren't toxic to dogs like macadamias, but they're hard to digest, can cause choking or a blockage, and are high in fat. Salted and flavoured almonds are worse. One dropped almond is unlikely to cause a problem.
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. If your pet seems unwell, or you're worried, call your vet.
What you need to know
If your dog ate some
- A few almonds: watch for vomiting, diarrhoea or discomfort.
- A large amount, flavoured almonds, or signs of choking or blockage: call your vet.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Gagging or coughing
- Not eating, or straining to poop
Collapse, seizures, difficulty breathing or pale gums are emergencies: go to the nearest vet straight away.
Other foods for dogs
See all 40 foods: what dogs can and can't eatFree tools for this
Sources
We check guides against veterinary sources and update them when guidance changes. How we write and review.
Questions.
Is almond milk safe for dogs?
Plain, unsweetened almond milk in small amounts is unlikely to harm, but avoid sweetened versions and any with xylitol.
