Can dogs eat cashews?

Caution — plain unsalted, few at a time

A few plain unsalted cashews are unlikely to harm most dogs. Salted, flavoured, or many cashews are a problem.

The full picture

Cashews are among the safer nuts for dogs — they're not toxic like macadamias, they don't commonly carry the moulds walnuts do, and dogs generally tolerate them. That said, they're still high in fat (pancreatitis risk) and almost always sold salted or flavoured. A couple of plain unsalted cashews occasionally won't cause problems for most dogs. A packet of salted cashews will. Honey-roasted, chilli-flavoured, and dry-roasted cashews all have problematic additions.

Risks to watch for

  • Fat content — pancreatitis
  • Salt in most packaged versions
  • Flavourings often toxic

Potential benefits

  • Some protein and healthy fats

Safe portion size

A couple of plain unsalted cashews occasionally.

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Safer alternatives

  • Plain unsalted peanut butter (xylitol-free)

Unexpected vet bills can run into thousands

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Related foods

Peanuts caution Almonds caution Pistachios caution
Written and reviewed by
The Can My Dog Eat editorial team

Every food page is cross-checked against UK veterinary sources including the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the Animal PoisonLine, PDSA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual before publication. We do not accept paid placements from brands. If you spot an inaccuracy, please let us know — we take errors seriously and correct them quickly.

Spot an error? Report it

Checked against UK veterinary guidance — see our editorial standards and source list. If your dog has eaten something and you need urgent advice, call a vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000.

Important: This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, and individual factors (age, breed, health conditions, medications) can change what's safe. If in doubt, always contact your vet — or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 in the UK.