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Walnuts
CAUTIONWalnuts — especially black walnuts and any mouldy nuts — can be seriously toxic to dogs.
Toxicity Level
6/10Why It's Dangerous
Mouldy walnuts often grow tremorgenic mycotoxins that cause severe neurological signs. Black walnuts are also independently toxic.
science
The Science
Penitrem A / roquefortine (mould); juglone (black walnut)Mouldy nuts can be colonised by Penicillium species that produce penitrem A and roquefortine, which inhibit inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain and cause whole-body tremors and seizures. Black walnut hulls contain juglone, which is toxic to dogs (less so than to horses). Fat content also poses a pancreatitis risk.
Sources
- •ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
- •Merck Veterinary Manual
- •Blue Cross UK — Pet Poisoning Guidance
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Dosage & Thresholds
Any mouldy walnut ingestion is an emergency. Fresh English walnuts in tiny amounts may not cause harm but are best avoided.
Symptoms to Watch For
warningMuscle tremors
warningSeizures
warningVomiting
warningHyperthermia
warningLoss of coordination