food
Pecans
NOT RECOMMENDED
Pecans are not safe for dogs. They can contain mould toxins and cause gut obstruction and pancreatitis.
What to do
Contact your vet if your dog ate mouldy pecans, a large amount, or is showing symptoms.
When to contact a vet: Emergency vet attention if your dog has tremors or seizures.
Symptoms to look for
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- tremors
- seizures
- lethargy
- abdominal pain
Why
Pecans can grow a mould called Aspergillus that produces aflatoxins, which can cause tremors and seizures. The high fat content can trigger pancreatitis, and whole nuts can cause obstruction, especially in small dogs. Salted or flavoured pecans add extra risk.
- Substances of concern
- aflatoxins, high fat, salt, mould
- Safer parts
- {}
- Parts to avoid
- {"mouldy pecans","salted pecans","flavoured pecans","whole pecans"}
- Preparation
- Not recommended.
- How much matters
- A few plain pecans are unlikely to be fatal, but mouldy or large amounts are dangerous.
- Severity
- Moderate to severe
Sources
- Pet Poison HelplinePrimary authoritative — Nutrition
This answer rests on a single approved source and is queued for further review.
Information reviewed against recognised veterinary and animal-safety sources. Source organisations are independent of Is It For Dogs unless otherwise stated.
Last reviewed 6 September 2026 · next review due September 2027.
Safety classifications are based on available expert and veterinary information. Individual dogs may react differently, particularly dogs with allergies, existing health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
Important: Is It For Dogs provides general information about the safety of foods, plants, drinks, ingredients and other items around dogs. Our information is based on sources we consider reliable and is intended to help dog owners make informed decisions. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinary professional. Read more
Dogs can react differently depending on their size, age, health, allergies, medications, the amount consumed and other circumstances. An item classified as Safe is not necessarily suitable for every individual dog.
If your dog has eaten something potentially poisonous or dangerous, has eaten an unknown substance, or is showing concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Do not induce vomiting or give your dog medication unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.