Can dogs eat it?
Can dogs eat pine nuts?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Pine nuts are not toxic to dogs, and a few that fall on the floor are nothing to worry about. They are small, soft and high in fat, so they are not a useful treat. The bigger issue is pesto, the dish most people use them in, which contains garlic and parmesan.
Small and rich
Pine nuts are the seeds of certain pine trees. They are soft and easy to chew, so choking is less of a concern than with larger nuts. They are about 68 percent fat, with roughly 670 calories per 100 g. A teaspoon of pine nuts has about 30 calories.
A few nuts scattered on food is the most to give, if you share at all.
Some people notice a bitter metallic taste after eating certain pine nuts, known as pine mouth. Whether dogs experience anything similar is unknown, which is one more reason to keep portions tiny.
Pesto and other dishes
Classic pesto blends pine nuts with basil, parmesan, olive oil and garlic. The garlic is the problem. Pine nuts also appear in salads with dressings, in stuffings with onion, and toasted in butter. Share only plain, untoasted nuts.
Pine cones on walks
Dogs love chewing pine cones, but cones are hard, sharp and can splinter into pieces that irritate the mouth and gut or cause a blockage. They may also carry sap. Swap a pine cone for a proper chew toy.
Fat and sensitive dogs
Overweight dogs, those with delicate stomachs and dogs that have had pancreatitis are better off without pine nuts. A handful can bring on vomiting and diarrhea in these dogs.
Storing pine nuts
Pine nuts go rancid quickly because of their oil. Store them sealed in the fridge or freezer, which also keeps them out of reach. Rancid nuts should be thrown away.
Key takeaways
- Pine nuts are not toxic but are very high in fat.
- Pesto contains garlic and is unsuitable.
- Pine cones can splinter and cause blockages.
- Dogs prone to pancreatitis should avoid them.