Sometimes — with care
A few plain, unsalted cashews are okay for most dogs occasionally. They’re softer than almonds but still fat bombs — and never mix them up with macadamias.
Cashews are one of the dog-safer nuts: soft enough to chew, no inherent toxin (when sold roasted/steamed for human consumption), and a source of protein and zinc. The two cautions are fat — about 44 g per 100 g, enough to trigger pancreatitis if a dog raids a party bowl — and mix-ups: nut mixes often include macadamia nuts, which are genuinely toxic to dogs (weakness, tremors, hyperthermia) and raisins sometimes hide in trail mixes.
2–4 plain cashews for a medium or large dog, occasionally, is a reasonable ceiling; skip them for small breeds and overweight dogs — the calories just aren’t worth it. Always from a plain unsalted pack, never from a seasoned nut mix.
For crunch without fat, carrots win every time; for protein, cooked eggs.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet has eaten something potentially harmful or shows symptoms, contact your vet or an emergency clinic immediately. Full disclaimer.