Are Pecans Poisonous to Dogs?
Carya illinoinensis · Juglandaceae
Moderately ToxicAlso toxic to cats
Pecans are toxic to dogs.
Why it's toxic
The toxic compounds in pecans:
- Juglone (natural compound in walnut-family nuts; causes GI irritation and, in larger doses, can affect the nervous system)
- Tremorgenic mycotoxins from mold (Aspergillus/Penicillium), which can cause tremors and seizures
- Aflatoxin from mold growth on stored or fallen pecans, which can cause acute liver damage
- High fat content (~72%), a trigger for pancreatitis
Symptoms to watch for
If your dog ate pecans, watch for:
- Vomiting (often severe)
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain / hunched posture
- Muscle tremors
- Seizures
- Signs of pancreatitis (vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy)
- Gastrointestinal obstruction or choking from whole nuts
What to do if your dog ate it
- 1Remove your dog's access to the pecans and check how much may have been eaten.
- 2Do NOT induce vomiting unless a veterinarian or poison-control expert specifically tells you to.
- 3Call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435, or the Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 right away.
- 4Note the amount eaten, the time, and your dog's weight and any symptoms — have this ready for the expert.
- 5Follow professional guidance and go to the nearest emergency vet if you are advised to.
A consultation fee may apply to the Pet Poison Helpline. When in doubt, contact your own veterinarian or nearest emergency clinic.
Frequently asked questions
- Are pecans poisonous to dogs?
- Yes. Pecans are not safe for dogs. They contain juglone, are prone to mold that produces tremorgenic mycotoxins and aflatoxin, and are very high in fat (~72%), which can trigger pancreatitis. Whole pecans can also cause choking or intestinal blockage. Veterinary sources, including the AKC, advise against feeding pecans to dogs.
- What happens if my dog eats a few pecans?
- A small amount may cause only mild stomach upset (vomiting, diarrhea), but moldy pecans can cause tremors and seizures even in small quantities, and fatty nuts can trigger pancreatitis. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, tremors, or seizures, and contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline (1-800-213-6680) / ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) if signs appear or a large amount was eaten.
- Why is mold on pecans so dangerous for dogs?
- Stored, fallen, or shelled pecans readily grow mold that produces tremorgenic mycotoxins and aflatoxin. Mycotoxins can cause neurological signs like tremors and seizures even when the nuts do not look obviously moldy, and aflatoxin can cause acute liver damage. This makes even discarded or wild-foraged pecans a serious hazard.
Sources
Related plants & foods
This page is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Toxicity can vary with the amount eaten, your dog's size, and individual sensitivity. If you suspect poisoning, contact a veterinarian or poison-control hotline immediately.