Can Dogs Eat Peanuts?
In moderation. Plain, shelled, unsalted peanuts aren't toxic, but they're very high in fat, so only a few now and then.
What it gives your dog
The peanut is actually a legume. It provides protein, vitamin E, niacin and unsaturated fats, but also about 49 g of fat and some 570 kcal per 100 g: each peanut is about 5 kcal. Too many can cause diarrhea, weight gain or, in dogs prone to it, pancreatitis.
The ones to avoid are almost all the ones we keep at home: salted, fried, honey-roasted, candied, chocolate-covered, spiced or spicy. The shell can't be digested and can cause a blockage. Peanut allergies are rare in dogs, but they exist: the first time, give one and watch. Poorly stored peanuts can grow mold with aflatoxins, which are very harmful to the liver, so if they're rancid or moldy, throw them out.
How to serve it
- Raw or dry-roasted, unsalted
- Shelled and without the red skin
- Whole for large dogs; broken up for small dogs
- Never salted, fried, candied, honey-roasted or with chocolate
How much can they eat?
Small dog (under 10 kg / 22 lb): 2-3 peanuts. Medium (10-25 kg / 22-55 lb): 4-6. Large (over 25 kg / 55 lb): 8-10. Occasionally and within the 10% of calories for extras (each peanut is about 5 kcal).
Risks
- Fat: diarrhea, weight gain or pancreatitis
- Shells: blockage
- Salt, sugar, honey, chocolate or spices in snack peanuts
- Mold and aflatoxins in old peanuts
- Allergy (uncommon)
- Choking in small dogs
Frequently asked questions
Are peanuts bad for dogs?
They're not toxic. Plain, unsalted, shelled peanuts can be an occasional treat. The problem is their fat, and the fact that the ones we usually have at home are salted, fried or chocolate-covered. A few now and then is fine; a whole snack bag is not.
Can my dog eat peanuts in the shell?
Better shelled. The shell isn't toxic, but it's fibrous, can't be digested and can irritate the intestine or, if your dog eats a lot, cause a blockage, especially in small dogs. Shell peanuts before giving them and pick up any shells that fall on the floor.
General information reviewed against veterinary sources. If your dog has eaten something that worries you, call your vet or a 24-hour emergency vet right away, without waiting for symptoms.