Can Dogs Eat Pecans? Learn Before You Feed!

Did you know why Pecans are named Pecans?
This word came from the Algonquin tribe’s word “Pacane.” It means the nut that you need to break with the help of a stone.

Well, it is not the stone age. We live in the 21st century. You don’t need a stone to crack the pecan shell in order to consume it. Pre-cracked pecans are available in local stores. You can use these delicious pecans in your pies and cakes to have that sweet buttery essence.

No matter how tasty these are, it’s better not to share them with your pooch. Pecans for dogs aren’t an excellent idea due to some sound reasons.

Read this blog if you wonder, “Can dogs eat pecans?”
As pecans are not advisable for dogs, find out the reasons why.

Can dogs have pecans?

No, dogs cannot have pecans.We do not deny the fact that Pecans are highly Nutritious and rich in protein, fat, and fiber. Apart from that, pecans also contain vitamin E, manganese, copper, phosphorus, and manganese. Yet, Pecans are considered toxic for dogs. One of the reasons pecans are not advised for dogs is the presence of the toxin juglone and Pecan’s susceptibility to mold. Further, it induces severe effects on dogs like intestinal blockages, GI distress, etc.

Are pecans bad for dogs?

Like any other nut, Pecans are filled with healthy fats as well as high fiber and protein. However, these goods are of no use to dogs. It is mainly because the Pecans are not part of a dog’s routine diet. Therefore, their body finds it hard to absorb the nutrients present in Pecans and even other nuts.

However, if consumed in excess, dogs pecans can cause numerous harmful effects due to the following ;

Juglone Toxin:
Nuts like Pecan and walnut contain Juglone in excessive amounts, which is the leading cause of its toxicity. Juglone, also known as naphthoquinone, becomes more toxic when exposed to oxygen. The quantity of Juglone present in Juglone is minor to affect humans but enough to harm dogs and horses.

Myotoxin:
Pecans are highly susceptible to growing a mold called aspergillus, which cannot be observed with the naked eyes. The mold produces Tremorgenic mycotoxins that cause Neurotoxicosis in dogs. The chances of mold formation are minimal in fresh pecans, whereas store-bought quickly grow mold due to high moisture content.

Gastrointestinal Distress:
Due to excess fat content, excess pecans intake causes not only obesity but also gastrointestinal (GI) issues like diarrhea, stomach pain, etc. Basically, the compounds like tannins and phytates in pecans make them hard to digest for dogs. If you give roasted pecans to dogs for an extended period, it could also cause gastroenteritis and pancreatitis in dogs.

Choking Hazard:
Due to the shape and size of nuts like Almonds and Pecan, veterinarians don’t suggest giving nuts to dogs. These nuts can cause choking hazards in dogs which can be deadly. Choking is most likely to happen in small-sized breeds.

Can pecans kill my Dog?

One, two, or even three pecans won’t kill your Dog. However, small dogs get affected even if the quantity offered is moderate.

Whether your Dog is small or big, please monitor your Dog for a couple of hours after they pecans. If dogs seem to show signs of distress and suffering, take them to the Veteran as soon as possible.

If your dog ate pecans in bulk, or you don’t know the amount of Pecans your Dog consumed, in that case too, take it immediately to a Veteran.

What Happens if a Dog Eats Pecans?

If the Dog ate moldy or excess pecans, it would be considered a medical emergency. Your Dog can show the following symptoms after eating an excess of pecans;

• Tremors
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Blood in the stool
• Diarrhea
• Urinating
• Seizures

If your Dog shows any of the following symptoms, call your Dog’s Vet or take it to the hospital without waiting for any more.

Conclusion

Summarizing the above information, It must have cleared your query; “Is it ok for a dog to eat pecans or not?” Thus, it would be best if you avoid giving pecans to your Dog, and make sure to keep them away. The most suitable alternative would be avoiding the purchase of pecans, as the chances of accidental consumption will diminish. Further, if there is a pecan tree in your neighborhood, you need extra care to ensure your Dog won’t eat any Pecans.