Yellow: with caution
Best avoided, although a single almond is not an emergency. The ASPCA, whose Animal Poison Control Center answers questions about animal poisoning, lists almonds among the foods pets should not eat.
Why almonds get a yellow rating
According to the ASPCA, almonds contain a lot of oil and fat. This can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, and pancreatitis in some animals. The American Kennel Club (AKC) answers the question with a clear no: dogs digest almonds poorly, and the hard kernels can block the oesophagus, intestines or windpipe, especially in small breeds. Neither source describes them as toxic in the strict sense. That is why the rating is yellow rather than red, with a clear recommendation to leave them out.
What to keep in mind
- Seasoned almonds: According to the AKC, salt and seasonings add further irritation to the stomach.
- Baked goods and trail mix: Almonds often appear alongside raisins or chocolate, which are toxic.
- Mould: Nuts can develop aflatoxins, mould toxins that the MSD Veterinary Manual says damage the liver.
- Storage: Keep the bag in a cupboard, rather than on the coffee table.
What if your dog has eaten almonds?
According to the AKC, there is no need to panic over one or two almonds. However, watch your dog closely for vomiting, stomach pain and signs of a blockage, such as refusing food or not passing stools. If your dog has eaten more than a few almonds, call your vet or an emergency veterinary service.
If you suspect poisoning, contact your vet or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Our free feeding calculator shows you how much food your dog needs each day and how to account for snacks. You can find more on meal plans and treats in our book “Dog Nutrition and Meal Plans” (book in German), and our free Puppy Starter Pack helps you get ready for a puppy. To give your dog a place on your wall, explore our dog portraits from your own photo or choose an individual portrait.
Further reading
- Christmas with your dog: what to arrange in advance
- How to calculate how much food your dog really needs
- Is my dog overweight? How to assess body condition and ideal weight
Sources, accessed on 20.10.2026: ASPCA Animal Poison Control, People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (Nuts); American Kennel Club, Can Dogs Eat Almonds? and Human Foods Dogs Can and Can't Eat; MSD Veterinary Manual, Aflatoxicosis in Animals.
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