Not veterinary advice. This page is general information from published sources, not a diagnosis. If your dog ate something toxic, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right now (a fee may apply).

🫘 Nuts & Seeds

Can dogs eat pistachios?

In moderation
Pistachios are not toxic, but it is best to avoid feeding them to dogs.

Why

Pistachios are not poisonous, but they are high in fat and salt, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset and pancreatitis, especially in larger quantities. The nuts and shells are a choking hazard, and pistachios can carry urushiol, which causes an allergy-like reaction, and aflatoxin, a mold toxin that can make dogs lethargic and cause seizures. For these reasons veterinarians recommend keeping pistachios away from dogs.

How much is safe

Best avoided; if a dog gets one or two plain, unsalted, shelled pistachios it is unlikely to be harmful, but they should not be offered regularly.

Warning signs to watch for

Diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy; potential pancreatitis from the high fat content.

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More foods in this group

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Frequently asked questions

Can dogs eat pistachios?
Pistachios are not toxic, but it is best to avoid feeding them to dogs. Pistachios are not poisonous, but they are high in fat and salt, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset and pancreatitis, especially in larger quantities. The nuts and shells are a choking hazard, and pistachios can carry urushiol, which causes an allergy-like reaction, and aflatoxin, a mold toxin that can make dogs lethargic and cause seizures. For these reasons veterinarians recommend keeping pistachios away from dogs.
How much pistachios can a dog have?
Best avoided; if a dog gets one or two plain, unsalted, shelled pistachios it is unlikely to be harmful, but they should not be offered regularly.
What are the symptoms if a dog eats too much pistachios?
Diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy; potential pancreatitis from the high fat content.
What should I do if my dog ate something toxic?
Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away (a consultation fee may apply). Have the food, the amount, and your dog's weight ready. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.

Source & last checked

  • Safety rating from AKC ↗
  • Last checked: 2026-07-20
  • Every dog is different — size, age, allergies, and health conditions matter. When in doubt, ask your veterinarian before introducing a new food.
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