Can dogs eat
Peanuts?
In moderation
Yes, in small amounts. Plain, unsalted, shelled peanuts are fine as an occasional treat, but salt, shells and the high fat content call for limits.
Why it’s fine in small amounts
Plain peanuts are not poisonous to dogs, but they are high in fat. The AKC notes that fat can upset digestion, and regular or large amounts of high-fat foods can lead to pancreatitis. That is why peanuts should be a few at a time, never a daily treat.
Most of the trouble comes from how peanuts are sold. Salted peanuts contain more sodium than your dog needs, so the AKC advises avoiding them, although a salted peanut or two picked up from the floor will probably be fine. Shells should be removed: the fibrous shell can pose a choking hazard, especially for small breeds.
Peanuts are different from macadamia nuts, which the ASPCA lists as a cause of weakness, tremors, vomiting and an elevated body temperature in dogs. The ASPCA also notes that other nuts are high in oils and fats that can cause vomiting, diarrhea and potentially pancreatitis.
Peanut butter has its own page. See peanut butter, where xylitol is the key thing to check.
Benefits
- A small, crunchy, motivating treat
Risks
- High fat; may upset the stomach or lead to pancreatitis
- Salted peanuts add more sodium than a dog needs
- Shells are a choking hazard, especially for small breeds
How to serve it safely
Offer only plain, unsalted, shelled peanuts. The AKC suggests limiting your dog to just a few peanuts and not making them a daily treat.
Treats should stay under 10% of daily calories. Skip peanuts for dogs prone to pancreatitis or on a low-fat diet, and ask your vet if you are unsure.
Related forms
| Food | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Plain unsalted peanuts | In moderation | Just a few as an occasional treat. |
| Salted or flavored peanuts | No | More sodium than your dog needs, plus possible unsafe seasonings. |
| Peanuts in the shell | With caution | Shells are a choking hazard; remove them. |
| Peanut brittle and candied peanuts | No | Sugary and may contain chocolate or xylitol. |
If your dog already ate it
A few plain peanuts are rarely a problem, and a salted one or two is probably fine. If your dog ate a large amount, salted or coated peanuts, or peanuts in the shell, watch for vomiting, diarrhea, belly pain, loss of appetite or lethargy.
Call your vet for advice if signs appear, or contact ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 / Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 (US; fees may apply). Outside the US, call your local emergency vet. Do not try to make your dog vomit at home.
Frequently asked questions
Are peanuts toxic to dogs?
Plain peanuts are not toxic, but they are fatty, and salted or flavored ones are not suitable.
Can dogs eat peanut shells?
The AKC says to remove them. The fibrous shell can be a choking hazard, especially for small breeds.
Are peanuts a good treat for dogs?
In tiny amounts they can be, but low-calorie options such as carrots or green beans are easier on the waistline.
Are macadamia nuts toxic to dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA lists macadamia nuts as a cause of weakness, tremors and vomiting in dogs, so keep them away from your dog.
Written from veterinary sources by the Pawsplained editorial team. Not yet reviewed by a veterinarian; this is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Updated Oct 25, 2026. Editorial policy