Why
The AKC's chief veterinarian says pistachios are not toxic in themselves, but the fat and salt can trigger pancreatitis, shells can choke, and mold on shells can produce aflatoxin.
What to do instead
- Keep pistachios and their shells away from dogs.
Watch out for
- Watch for vomiting, diarrhea or loss of appetite.
- Call a vet if your dog seems lethargic after eating them.
If your dog ate pistachios
- Note how much your dog ate and when, and keep any packaging.
- Call your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Other nuts and nut butters: quick answers
| Food | Verdict | Short answer |
|---|---|---|
| Almonds | Avoid | No. Almonds can block the esophagus and are high in fat. |
| Cashews | Small amounts | Yes, a few plain unsalted cashews. They are fatty, so keep it rare. |
| Peanut butter | Small amounts | Yes, plain and xylitol-free, in small amounts. |
| Peanuts | Small amounts | Yes, a few plain unsalted peanuts. |
| Macadamia nuts | Toxic | No. Macadamia nuts are one of the most poisonous foods for dogs. |
Rules for any new food
- Plain is the rule: no salt, butter, oil, onion, garlic, sugar or sweeteners. Most of the danger in human food comes from what is added to it.
- Keep all treats under 10% of your dog's daily calories (WSAVA). The rest should come from a complete dog food.
- Check labels for xylitol, raisins, chocolate and macadamia nuts, which turn up in baked goods, snacks and spreads.
- If your dog has a health condition, such as diabetes, pancreatitis or kidney disease, ask your vet before adding any new food.
Frequently asked questions
Are pistachios safe for dogs?
Best avoided. Pistachios are not toxic, but they are fatty, salty and a choking risk.
What should I do if my dog ate pistachios?
Most dogs are fine after a small amount, but watch for vomiting, diarrhea or unusual behavior and call your vet if anything worries you.
Sources
Checked October 17, 2026. We are a reference, not a vet: if in doubt, call yours. How we check.