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Can dogs eat pistachios? My dog ate some with shells. What now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Beagle | Male | neutered | 20 lbs

Can dogs eat pistachios? My dog accidentally got a hold of about five of them and ate the shell and all.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 14th, 2016

No, it's not recommended for dogs to eat pistachios. That's because they are very high in fat, and can cause GI upset and pancreatitis if too many are eaten. In addition, the shells cannot be digested and could potentially cause a blockage. If he just ate them within the past two hours, you can take Toga into the vet to induce vomiting to remove them from his stomach to be safe. If it's been longer than two hours, even though he only ate five of them, I would still monitor him for signs of obstruction and GI upset. Should he start vomiting, having diarrhea, or becomes lethargic or anorexic, then I would take him into the vet for an exam.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 3rd, 2016

    While pistachios are not poisonous, they are very fatty and could cause an upset stomach and in the worst case, pancreatitis. If she only ate a few , she is probably ok. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, pain, lethargy. If any of these signs occur, take her to the vet immediately, please. They should pass ok, but there is a risk that one of the nuts could obstruct the intestine. If this happened within the past two hours, you can also take her to your vet to have him make her regurgitate them.

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