Caution

Can dogs eat hazelnuts? Caution

Q: Can dogs eat hazelnuts?

Caution. Hazelnuts aren't toxic, but they're fatty, their very hard shells can choke a dog or block the gut, and moldy fallen nuts can cause seizures.

Caution. Hazelnuts aren't toxic, but they're fatty, their very hard shells can choke a dog or block the gut, and moldy fallen nuts can cause seizures.

Hazelnuts and dogs: key facts

Verdict: Caution · Watch at home
What it can do: Vomiting, diarrhea, painful belly or a 'prayer position', not eating and straining or unable to poop. All 7
How to serve: Not recommended as a treat. Choose a safer snack.
What to do now: Take away any remaining nuts and shells. All steps
Sources: AKC, PDSA. Reviewed 9 October 2026.

What should I do if my dog ate hazelnuts?

Take away any remaining nuts and shells.
Watch for vomiting, a painful belly, not eating or trouble pooping.
Call your vet now if your dog swallowed whole nuts in their shells or shows any of these signs.
Call your vet now if the nuts were moldy or picked up off the ground, or if your dog has a seizure.

Don't

Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Don't give salted or chocolate-covered hazelnuts.

How to give it safely

Not recommended as a treat. Choose a safer snack.

Symptoms to watch for

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Painful belly or a 'prayer position'
Not eating
Straining or unable to poop
Low energy
Seizures (moldy nuts)

Why

Like other nuts, hazelnuts are high in fat, which can cause a stomach upset and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Their shells are extremely hard, and nuts lying on damp ground can grow a mold that is toxic to dogs.

Sources

Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.

General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.