Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
dog safety reference
Is Black Walnut safe for dogs?
Juglans nigra
The Black Walnut is a large deciduous tree native to North America, widely recognized for its edible nuts and distinctively dark, hard wood. While generally considered safe for cats, the plant material and nuts can pose specific health risks to dogs.
American WalnutBlack WalnutEastern Black WalnutJuglans nigra
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Large tree
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your dog
The acute danger to dogs from black walnut is moldy fallen nuts and hulls — they harbor tremorgenic mycotoxins that can cause vomiting, agitation, tremors, and seizures. Fresh nuts and shells can also cause GI upset or even an obstruction. Yards with a producing tree should be cleared of fallen nuts during walks.
What to watch for
From moldy nuts/hulls (Pet Poison Helpline): vomiting, agitation, incoordination, tremors, seizures, and elevated body temperature. From shells/nuts directly: vomiting, lethargy, and signs of GI obstruction such as repeated retching, abdominal pain, or refusal to eat.
Time window
Pet Poison Helpline notes that signs from tremorgenic mycotoxins in moldy material can appear within 30 minutes of ingestion. Onset for non-moldy nut/shell ingestion isn't given specifically; GI signs usually develop within hours.
When to call the vet
Call immediately if you see tremors, seizures, severe agitation, or a high body temperature — those signs can develop within 30 minutes of eating moldy material per Pet Poison Helpline. Also call if your dog ate whole nuts or shells and is vomiting, retching, or showing belly pain (possible obstruction). Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
First aid at home
Remove any remaining nuts, hulls, or shells your dog can reach (especially anything moldy) and call your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 for first-aid advice. Don't induce vomiting on your own — shell fragments and seizing dogs both make that risky.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, lethargy, tremors, and potential for gastrointestinal obstruction from nut shells.
Escalation note
Ingestion of moldy nuts or large quantities of plant material can be dangerous. If your dog has ingested any part of a Black Walnut, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Juglans nigra
botanical · 94% reliability
Detailed botanical profile and horticultural information for Juglans nigra.