Can dogs eat peanuts? The short answer is yes—peanuts aren’t toxic to dogs, whether they’re raw or cooked. However, they are packed with histamine, which means they can trigger allergies in pups just as easily as they do in people. While a peanut can be a perfectly fine occasional treat for most dogs, you definitely want to keep the portions small.
Peanuts are non-toxic but high in histamine
There’s actually a lot to love about peanuts from a nutritional standpoint. They come with plenty of healthy perks, but there’s a catch: they contain a significant amount of histamine. This can be tricky for both humans and our four-legged friends. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know before sharing your snack:
- Peanuts are non-toxic to dogs.
- They are very high in fat.
- They contain high levels of histamine.
- They can trigger allergic reactions.
- In some cases, they may even trigger epileptic seizures in sensitive dogs.
If a dog is allergic to histamine, their body reacts much like ours does—think respiratory distress and other allergic symptoms. Before you toss your pup a peanut, you’ll want to be absolutely sure they don’t have a sensitivity. Because histamine has been known to trigger seizures in some dogs, many veterinarians suggest skipping peanuts altogether just to be safe.
How to spot an allergic reaction in your dog
If your dog sneaks some peanuts and has a bad reaction, you’ll usually notice it pretty quickly through their behavior. Keep a close eye out for heavy, labored panting or swelling around the eyelids. If you see these signs, don’t wait—call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately. Your pup will need professional care right away.