Can dogs eat it?
Can dogs eat cashews?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Plain, unsalted, roasted cashews are not toxic to dogs, and one or two as a rare treat is generally fine for a medium or large dog. They are high in fat, around 9 calories each, so larger amounts can upset the stomach. Salted and flavored cashews and mixed nuts containing macadamias are not suitable.
Keeping cashews occasional
Cashews are softer than almonds and easier to chew, which makes them one of the less risky nuts. Even so, they are dense in fat. A small dog of 5 kg (11 lb) should have no more than one, broken in half. Medium dogs can have two, and large dogs three or four, as an occasional snack rather than a regular reward.
Break cashews into halves or smaller pieces for any dog that tends to gulp, so a whole nut does not go down in one piece. Offer them by hand rather than dropping them in a bowl, which makes it easier to keep count.
Salt and seasonings
Most snack cashews are roasted in oil and salted. Others come honey-glazed, chili-coated or in curries and stir-fries with garlic and soy sauce. Unsalted plain cashews are the only version to consider.
Mixed nut bags
Cashews are often mixed with macadamias, brazil nuts, pecans and almonds. Macadamias are toxic to dogs, and several of the others are risky. A dog that raids a mixed nut bag needs the label checked for macadamias before deciding whether to call the vet.
Fat and pancreatitis
Fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers and dogs that have had pancreatitis before are among those most at risk. For them, cashews and other nuts are best avoided.
Cashew butter and vegan cheese
Plain cashew butter is rich; a thin smear is plenty. Vegan cheeses and sauces made from cashews often include garlic, onion powder and salt, so they are not suitable for sharing.
Key takeaways
- Plain unsalted cashews are not toxic to dogs.
- Limit them to one to four, depending on size, as a rare treat.
- Mixed nut bags may contain toxic macadamias.
- Dogs prone to pancreatitis should avoid cashews.