Can Dogs Have Almond Flour?

Dogs are curious by nature and will eat anything resembling food. It can get tricky if they eat things they are not supposed to, as you may have to visit the vet.

Talking of human foods dogs can or cannot eat, is almond flour good for dogs? This is a divisive topic; some people feel dogs should not eat almond flour. However, vets and other pet experts think otherwise, stating that almond flour is actually healthy for canines.

With almond flour gaining immense popularity lately, many dog owners are curious if it is safe for their pets. Hang on as we quench your curiosity on this subject.

What is Almond Flour?

Like the name hints, almond flour comes from ground almonds. Do not confuse almond flour and almond meal; the former uses almonds with their skins removed. The flour is sweet, making it the go-to option for pastries, mostly pie. It is advisable to use almond flour if you are on a low-carb diet.

Back to our question, can dogs have almond flour? Yes, dogs can eat this almond derivative and take advantage of its numerous health benefits.

Dogs can eat cashews, chestnuts, and other nuts, but you must be careful with almonds. Dogs have difficulty digesting almonds; hence many vets advise against feeding them to dogs. Almond flour is an excellent alternative, as you do not have to worry about choking and intestinal blockage.

Benefits of Almond Flour to Dogs

The following are the benefits your canine will gain from eating food made with almond flour.

Protein

Almond flour is an excellent source of protein, an essential nutrient for your doggie. Roles of protein include building body mass, tissue repair, and manufacturing hormones.

Carbs

Your canine needs carbs for their energy needs. Almond flour has a decent carb composition, enough for your dog’s energy boost without the risk of obesity.

Fiber

The answer to a healthy digestive system is a diet rich in fiber. Almond flour will provide your dog with dietary fiber that promotes the growth of probiotics in the gut. These microorganisms boost digestion and improve your pup’s digestive system.

Also, fiber is crucial for food mobility and will prevent conditions like constipation.

Antioxidants

Almond flour is an excellent source of antioxidants. However, the value is lesser than in almonds due to the removal of the skin and grinding.

Antioxidants fight free radicals in the cells, which cause oxidative stress. Therefore, your dog is less susceptible to cancer and aging-related complications.

Vitamin E, the primary vitamin in almond flour, is also a great antioxidant.

Minerals

Manganese, magnesium, copper, and phosphorus are some of the minerals present in almonds. Doggie treats made from almond flour will give your dog a decent serving of these minerals, which are necessary for various physiological processes.

Adding Almond Flour to Your Dog’s Diet

It is wise to incorporate almond flour into your high-quality dog’s food. As always, you have to be careful when preparing your pet’s food. You cannot feed your dog raw almond flour; you bake it into doggie treats.

When preparing doggie treats with almond flour, eliminate ingredients like sugar, salt, chocolate, and other additives that can cause toxicity. In their place, use dog-friendly spices such as cinnamon and ginger, but in moderation.

Make cookies or other treats and give them to your dog once in a while. Do not overfeed your dog on almond flour treats, as it may get obese.

Does Almond Flour Have Side Effects on Dogs?

Almond flour is generally safe for dogs, save for the occasional allergies. Your pup may be allergic to almonds, and consuming food made from almond flour may result in some reactions. Look for signs like diarrhea, vomiting, rashes, and itching after eating almond flour treats.

Consult your veterinarian if the symptoms persist. It is also wise to talk to the pet doctor before introducing almond-based foods to your dog.

Other times, the reactions are due to the flour’s products being foreign to your dog’s system. As a result, your canine may experience tummy upsets. It is not a cause of alarm as your dog’s system can adapt to the new food.

Overfeeding your dog with treats made from this flour can bring side effects like obesity. Let your pup have only a treat or two weekly.

Related Questions

Can My Dog Fall Ill After Eating Almond Flour Treats?

Almond flour is safe for dogs and comes with many benefits. Nevertheless, your dog might fall ill after eating almond flour treats if it has allergies. Signs of almond allergies in dogs include diarrhea, vomiting, general weakness, bald patches, and itching.

Remove almond products from your canine’s diet when you notice the symptoms and seek an appointment with your pet doctor.

Overeating almond flour treats can also make your pup sick.

Can Dogs Eat Almond Butter?

Almond butter for dogs is safer than eating the nut, which is hard to digest. The butter, made by crushing the nuts, is easy to digest and will give your furry friend loads of nutrients.

Despite being nutritious, you need to limit your pup’s servings as the butter has a high-fat content. Overeating can lead to stomach upsets and obesity in severe cases.

Related: Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter? What Dog Owners Need to Know

Can Dogs Eat Raw Almond Flour?

No, your dog should not eat raw almond flour. The flour is fine, and the dog may inhale the particles while eating it, leading to respiratory problems. However, a few licks won’t hurt your doggie.

Final Thought

Almonds are very nutritious, but your dog cannot eat them as they may cause digestive system upsets. The good news is that your dog can still gain the nutrients via almond flour. Make treats for your pups using almond flour to complement their minerals, protein, and fiber requirements.

Nevertheless, be keen on almond allergies in your dog to prevent an unwanted visit to the vet. Dogs allergic to other nuts are highly likely to be allergic to almonds.

Moreover, limit the serving to curb obesity in your furry friend. A treat twice a week is advisable.