Can I give almonds to my dog?
As a dog owner, it is very common to be tempted to share different types of food to please your four-legged friend. Almonds are an example, which are highly valued by humans not only for their flavor but also for their benefits.
What about dogs? Are almonds toxic to dogs?
In this article, we will answer the question and learn about the dangers of almonds and symptoms of almond poisoning in dogs.
Dangers of almonds for dogs
The danger of almond consumption in dogs is only true if the dog ingested a large amount or if he consumes almonds on a regular basis. Almonds are a food that contains oxalic acid substance, which is toxic to dogs. This substance is harmful to dogs and can affect their kidney system.
You are cooking when, suddenly, your dog looks at you. You want to give him a little treat but you wonder if he can eat the food you are holding in your hand.
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In addition, dogs are known to not chew their food sufficiently and can swallow almonds whole, which can lead to choking or obstruction of the digestive tract.
In summary, it is possible to offer a tiny amount of almonds (without salt and sugar and preferably raw and ground) to your dog as an exceptional treat, but you should never get your dog used to it and it is best to remove this food from your dog's eating habits.
What about butter or almond oil?
You can offer your dog a small amount of almond butter, who will love it because of its delicious taste. Rich in vitamins and fibre, almond butter can be good for your dog's skin and coat.
Almond oil is generally used in the treatment of itching, dry skin and various other irritations.
In summary, it is possible to give butter or almond oil to your dog but the risk still exists and it is therefore necessary to consult your veterinarian before any use.
What about almond milk?
Before you even think about giving almond milk to your dog and this on an exceptional basis, it is essential to check the composition of the product. In some cases, sugar and synthetic sweeteners are added and may be harmful to your dog.
In addition, the benefits of almond milk can be outweighed by other safer foods, so it is best to remove it from your dog's diet.
Symptoms of almond poisoning in dogs
If your dog has eaten a large quantity of almonds, the symptoms of intoxication are usually digestive due to the high fat content and in some cases the appearance of pancreatitis.
The main symptoms of almond poisoning in dogs are:
- Vomiting;
- Diarrhea;
- Abdominal pain;
- Hypersalivation;
- Fever;
- Lack of appetite and lethargy.
What if my dog ate almonds?
If your dog has eaten a few almonds while you were busy elsewhere, it is essential to monitor his behavior and symptoms within hours of ingestion. Any decrease in appetite or digestive symptoms ought to alert you and you should take your dog to the vet.
If your dog has eaten a considerable amount, it is best not to wait and take your dog to the vet. If this isn't possible, give your dog a medication that will make him vomit in order to empty his stomach contents.
In some cases, an almond can get stuck in the esophagus, stomach or any part of the digestive tract, so it's best to go to the vet, knowing that surgery may be necessary.
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