health
Can Dogs Eat Walnuts? NZ Safety Answer
11 June 2026
Can dogs eat walnuts in NZ? Best avoided. Walnuts are fatty and can be risky, especially in mixed nuts or baking.
Quick answer
Best avoided. SPCA NZ includes walnuts in its nuts warning for dogs, and also warns that mouldy foods can be dangerous for dogs.
Why
Walnuts can be fatty, salted, mixed with raisins or chocolate, or hidden in slices and cakes. Backyard or stored walnuts can also become mouldy, which is a separate safety concern for scavenging dogs.
If your dog ate it
Contact your NZ vet, after-hours emergency clinic, or SPCA for advice.
Safer alternatives
A complete dog food should stay the main diet. If you want a treat, use a small amount of plain prepared fruit or veg, or your dog's normal kibble in a puzzle feeder.
Related reading
References
- SPCA NZ, Dangerous foods for dogs, checked 2026-06-11: https://www.spca.nz/advice-and-welfare/article/dangerous-foods-for-dogs
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control, People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets, checked 2026-06-11: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
Important notice
*General food-safety information for NZ pet owners, reviewed against ASPCA/VCA guidance (June 2026). For any suspected ingestion or illness, contact a NZ vet, after-hours emergency clinic, or SPCA for advice.*
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- Flea & Worm TreatmentFor NZ conditions, look for protection that fits your routine (monthly vs longer-lasting) and your dog's weight range.