Many pet owners enjoy sharing fresh fruit with their dogs, but some fruits—especially stone fruits like peaches, cherries, and nectarines—can be harmful if not prepared properly. Understanding these risks is essential to keeping your pet safe and healthy.
Why Stone Fruits Are Dangerous for Dogs
-
Hard Pits Can Break Teeth
The hard, brittle pits of stone fruits can crack a dog’s teeth if bitten with too much force. Broken teeth can cause significant pain and may require expensive dental treatments. -
Esophagus and Throat Injuries
The sharp or irregular edges of pits can scratch or puncture a dog’s esophagus, leading to pain, bleeding, and choking hazards. Smaller dogs are particularly at risk of blockages. -
Digestive Obstruction Hazards
If a dog swallows a pit whole, it can get stuck in the stomach or intestines, causing a dangerous obstruction that may require emergency surgery. -
Cyanide Poisoning from Cracked Pits
Cherry, peach, and nectarine pits contain cyanogenic compounds that release cyanide when crushed or broken. Ingesting them can cause difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, and severe health issues. -
Moldy Seeds and Their Toxic Effects
Old or improperly stored fruit pits can develop mold that produces mycotoxins. These toxins can cause tremors, seizures, and other neurological problems in dogs. -
Rotting Fruit and Alcohol Fermentation
Overripe or fallen fruit can ferment, producing alcohol that is toxic to dogs. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning include vomiting, disorientation, and severe illness.
Feeding Fruits to Your Dog—The Safe Way
-
Always remove pits, seeds, and stems before giving fruit to your dog.
-
Serve fresh fruit in small, manageable portions.
-
Avoid overripe, fermented, or moldy fruit.
-
Limit fruit intake to no more than 10% of your dog’s diet.
-
If your dog eats a harmful part of a fruit, contact a veterinarian immediately.
With proper precautions, dogs can safely enjoy fruit as an occasional treat. Staying informed and cautious ensures your furry friend stays happy and healthy.
https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/6-dangers-stone-fruits-dogs
