Dogs can enjoy pistachio garnish on granola, salad, and biscotti, but some products like chocolates with pistachios are not safe.
The most common pistachio-related product is ice cream which dogs can lick once in a while, but you, the caretaker, should watch out for xylitol.
It is a type of sugar alcohol that destabilizes blood sugar leading to spikes in sugar levels, seizures, and even fatality.
Health Benefits of Pistachios to Dogs
They are rich in nutrients, and the best reason to eat them is that they have the lowest calories.
The high protein percentage keeps a dog full hence controlling weight gain.
Pistachios are high in antioxidants, a long-term health benefit by protecting the body from free radical cells that cause chronic diseases like cancer.
Vitamin B6 –As the rich source of Vitamin B, dogs need vitamin B6 to navigate several health issues like the metabolism of proteins and amino acids.
Carbohydrates –Although they are low in calories, pistachios contain carbs that are an instant energy source once digested. An underweight dog can gain weight during winter by consuming pistachios in reasonable amounts.
Proteins – A dog’s general body function is enabled by proteins that are an instant energy source. Proteins constitute hormones that fight to defend the body from harmful pathogens, so adding them to a dog’s diet is beneficial.
Fibers – They aid in the digestion of food and are helpful in the egestion of indigestible foods during constipation.
Potassium – Pistachios have high potassium levels, a vital electrolyte for dogs. It works with other salts in the body to regulate body impulses meaning without it. A dog can’t move.
Health Risks concerning Pistachios to Dogs
Passing one or two pistachios to your furry buddy may not be harmful, but too many of them can cause significant harm.
If this happens, the outcome will manifest in a short while through diarrhea and vomiting.
Aflatoxins poisoning
Worse case scenarios like aflatoxins poisoning or pancreatitis will cause nausea and abdominal pains.
Don’t let titles like sugar-free ice cream lure you into thinking they are safe for dogs because they contain artificial sweeteners that are unhealthy.
Xylitol is one of the artificial sweeteners used in such products, and you should watch out to avoid any products containing it.
It is highly poisonous and, in extreme cases, fatal.
Lactose-free pistachio ice cream
Another terminology to look out for is lactose-free pistachio ice cream.
It may sound like the real deal but to the contrary.
The dog may not face the usual lactose intolerance-related problems, but the product still contains high sugar levels and unhealthy fats.
Homemade pistachio meal
If you decide to prepare a pistachio meal for your dog, remember that dogs don’t have a robust digestive system like humans.
Be keen only to incorporate ingredients that they can digest easily to avoid stomach upsets.
Feed your dog a pistachio homemade ice cream but make sure you use little sugar and for the lactose intolerant factor, use alternative milk sources like coconut.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the right amount of pistachios for a dog?
The right amount of pistachios for dogs is one pistachio in a week.
Pistachios have many health benefits for dogs, like weight management and vitamins, but they should not overeat.
Can diabetic dogs have pistachio ice cream?
Diabetic dogs can enjoy a scoop of pistachio ice cream with a sugar regulation.
Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.
Unfortunately, handicapped dogs are much more likely to be ignored when a family is picking out their new pet. Handicapped pets need more care than non-handicapped pets, so it is understandable why they are often harder to rehome.
