It’s natural to want to share your favorite snacks with your beloved canine companion, but a crucial distinction exists between what’s safe for humans and what’s safe for dogs. While many “people foods” can be harmless, even beneficial, others are incredibly unhealthy or downright toxic for dogs. Understanding What Fruits Are Not Good For Dogs To Eat is paramount for every pet owner, as dogs digest food differently than humans, and an incorrect diet can lead to long-term health issues, severe illness, or even death. As omnivores, dogs don’t strictly require fruits or vegetables in their diet, but certain dog-safe options can be excellent, nutritious treats or snacks when given in moderation.
This guide will help you navigate the world of fruits and vegetables for dogs, highlighting which ones to avoid completely and which ones can be enjoyed safely as occasional treats.
Fruits Your Dog Should Never Eat (And Why)
When considering what fruits are not good for dogs to eat, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Certain fruits contain compounds, seeds, or pits that are dangerous, if not outright toxic, to canines. Keeping these fruits far out of your dog’s reach is critical for their well-being.
Avocado
While often celebrated as a superfood for humans, avocado should never be given to dogs. The pit, skin, and leaves of avocados contain a fungicidal toxin called persin. This substance can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Although the fleshy inside of the avocado fruit contains less persin than other parts of the plant, it can still be too much for a dog’s digestive system to handle.
Beyond the persin, avocado flesh is remarkably high in fat. High-fat foods can lead to gastrointestinal upset in dogs and contribute to more severe conditions like pancreatitis if consumed in large quantities. For these reasons, it’s best to keep avocados off your dog’s menu entirely. If you wish for your dog to benefit from avocado’s healthy fats, look for dog treats specifically formulated with avocado as an ingredient, designed for skin and coat health.
Cherries
The fleshy fruit around the cherry seed is generally safe, but the rest of the cherry plant, including the stem, leaves, and especially the pit, contains cyanide. Cyanide is a potent toxin that interferes with cellular oxygen transport, meaning your dog’s blood cells cannot get enough oxygen. This can be life-threatening. If you have a cherry tree, ensure your dog doesn’t have access to fallen fruit.
Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in dogs include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and bright red gums, all of which constitute a veterinary emergency. Always dispose of cherry pits securely in a dog-proof trash can, and educate family members, especially children, about the dangers of sharing cherries or their pits with your dog. For the antioxidant benefits of cherries without the risk, consider specially formulated cherry-flavored dog treats.
Grapes
Grapes and their dried form, raisins, are highly toxic to dogs, regardless of breed, sex, or age. The exact toxic substance is unknown, but even small amounts can lead to acute sudden kidney failure, a severe and often fatal condition. If you suspect your dog has eaten any amount of grapes or raisins, contact your veterinarian immediately. This is not a situation to “wait and see.”
It’s imperative to be extremely cautious with grapes and raisins around dogs, particularly if children who eat these fruits are present in the home. Ensure all grapes and raisins are stored securely out of reach and disposed of in a dog-proof container, not in a compost heap that your dog might access. This makes grapes one of the most critical items to include when discussing what fruits are not good for dogs to eat.
Tomatoes
While botanically a fruit, tomatoes are often considered vegetables in culinary contexts. The ripened red flesh of a tomato is generally considered safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. However, the green parts of the tomato plant—including the leaves, stems, and unripe green tomatoes—contain a toxic substance called solanine. While a dog would typically need to consume a significant amount of the tomato plant to become severely ill, it’s safer to avoid tomatoes altogether.
If your dog is an enthusiastic garden explorer, take measures to prevent them from accessing your tomato plants to eliminate any risk. It’s better to offer other proven safe treats than to risk solanine poisoning.
Safe Fruits for Dogs (In Moderation)
Many fruits can be wonderful, nutritious treats for dogs when given correctly and in moderation. These offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to your dog’s overall health and happiness. Always remove any seeds, pits, or tough skins, and serve fruit in bite-sized pieces to prevent choking. When introducing new fruits, start with very small amounts to monitor for any adverse reactions.
Apples
Apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Their low protein and fat content make them an ideal snack, especially for senior dogs. Always remove the seeds and core before offering apple slices, as apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide. Frozen apple slices can be a refreshing treat on a warm day. You can also find apples as a common ingredient in many commercially available dog treats.
Bananas
Bananas are a fantastic low-calorie treat for dogs, rich in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are also low in cholesterol and sodium. However, due to their high sugar content, bananas should only be given as an occasional treat and not as a regular part of your dog’s main diet. Consider mashing a small piece into their food or freezing slices for a cool, chewy snack. You can also find what can you feed to dogs that include bananas.
Blueberries
Often called a “superfood,” blueberries are packed with antioxidants that help prevent cell damage in both humans and canines. They are also a good source of fiber and phytochemicals. Their small size makes them perfect for training rewards or for teaching your dog to catch treats. Blueberries are a popular ingredient in many dog treats, sometimes combined with other healthy additions like yogurt.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe is nutrient-dense, low in calories, and an excellent source of water and fiber. However, it’s also high in sugar, so it should be given sparingly, especially to dogs who are overweight or have diabetes. Freezing small cubes or balls of cantaloupe can provide a refreshing and enriching summer snack for your pup.
Cranberries
Both fresh and dried cranberries are safe for dogs in small quantities. While some dogs might find their tartness unappealing, others enjoy them. Moderation is key, as too many cranberries can lead to an upset stomach. It’s important to note that many dried cranberries intended for human consumption are heavily sweetened, adding unnecessary sugar to your dog’s diet. Opt for unsweetened fresh or frozen cranberries, or choose crunchy cranberry dog treats.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are particularly beneficial for overweight dogs due to their extremely low carbohydrate and fat content, combined with high water content that promotes satiety. They are loaded with vitamins K, C, and B1, along with potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin. Cool cucumber slices make an excellent hot-weather treat, and frozen slices can offer a fun enrichment opportunity.
Russell Terrier enjoying cucumber slices as a healthy snack.
Mango
This sweet, tropical fruit is a good source of vitamins A, B6, C, and E, as well as potassium, beta-carotene, and alpha-carotene. As with most pitted fruits, the hard pit of a mango must be removed before serving, as it contains small amounts of cyanide and poses a choking hazard. Mango is high in sugar, so offer it only as an occasional treat, especially for dogs prone to weight gain. Mango-flavored dog treats offer a less messy way to provide these nutrients.
Oranges
Veterinarians generally agree that oranges are fine for dogs in small amounts, though many dogs are naturally deterred by their strong citrus smell or taste. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Only offer the juicy flesh of the orange, and be sure to remove all seeds and the peel. Orange peel can be rough on a dog’s digestive system, and the oils within it may irritate their sensitive nose. If your dog isn’t keen on fresh oranges, there are dog treats that incorporate orange flavor.
Peaches
Small amounts of fresh or frozen peach slices (without the pit) are a good source of fiber and vitamin A. Similar to cherries, peach pits contain cyanide and must be entirely removed and safely discarded in a dog-proof trash receptacle. Avoid canned peaches, as they typically contain high levels of sugary syrups, even those labeled “in natural juice.” Frozen peach slices can be a delightful and hydrating summer treat.
Pears
Pears are a beneficial snack, high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. When sharing pears with your dog, cut the flesh into bite-sized chunks and remove the core and seeds, as pear seeds contain traces of cyanide. As with other fruits, avoid canned or jarred pears that come in sugary syrups. Pear dog treats, often combined with other functional ingredients like duck or salmon, are also available.
Pineapple
A few chunks of fresh pineapple can be a sweet and healthy treat for dogs, provided the prickly outer peel and crown are removed. This tropical fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that can aid dogs in absorbing proteins. Again, steer clear of canned or packaged pineapple in sweetened syrups, as added sugars are unnecessary and potentially harmful, especially for dogs prone to obesity. Pineapple dog treats can offer a taste of the tropics on the go.
Pumpkin
Pure pumpkin is a highly beneficial food for dogs. Rich in antioxidants, its standout quality is its effectiveness in relieving both diarrhea and constipation in dogs. If purchasing canned pumpkin, always choose 100% pumpkin puree, avoiding pumpkin pie filling which contains added spices and sugars. You can also roast fresh pumpkin and feed your dog the peeled flesh. Many pumpkin supplements and treats are also available for dogs.
Raspberries
Raspberries are safe for dogs in moderation and contain beneficial antioxidants. They are low in sugar and calories but high in fiber, manganese, and vitamin C. Raspberries are particularly good for senior dogs because of their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help support aging joints. Raspberries contain trace amounts of naturally occurring xylitol, so limit your dog to no more than 8 ounces of fresh or frozen raspberries. Alternatively, choose dog treats that include raspberry as an ingredient.
Strawberries
Strawberries are packed with fiber and vitamin C, and they also contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth. Like all fruits, strawberries contain natural sugars, so offer them in moderation. Frozen strawberries can be a fun and enriching treat. You can also find what food items can dogs not eat that are strawberry flavored.
A Pembroke Welsh Corgi inquisitively sniffing a fresh strawberry.
Watermelon
Dogs can enjoy watermelon, but it’s crucial to remove all seeds and the rind beforehand, as these can cause intestinal blockages. The flesh of watermelon is safe and a great source of vitamins A, B-6, and C, as well as potassium. Composed of 92% water, watermelon is an excellent way to help keep your dog hydrated during hot weather. Freezing chunks of seeded watermelon provides a refreshing enrichment treat, and watermelon-flavored dog treats are also an option.
Vegetables Your Dog Can Enjoy (With Caution)
While our focus is on what fruits are not good for dogs to eat, it’s also helpful to know about safe and unsafe vegetables. Many vegetables can offer nutritional benefits to dogs when prepared correctly.
Broccoli
Broccoli can be safely given to dogs in small amounts as an occasional treat. It’s high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat. However, broccoli florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause mild to severe gastric irritation in some dogs. The tough stalks have also been known to cause obstructions in the esophagus. If your dog enjoys broccoli, it’s best to offer it cooked to minimize these risks. Alternatively, a broccoli-shaped chew toy can satisfy their desire to gnaw.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are rich in nutrients and antioxidants beneficial for both humans and dogs. However, moderation is key, as feeding too many can lead to excessive gas in your dog. If your dog loves them and you can tolerate the gaseous side effects, consider dehydrated dog foods that include these leafy greens.
Carrots
Carrots are an excellent low-calorie snack, high in fiber and beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A. The crunchy texture of carrots also helps clean your dog’s teeth. Carrots are a common ingredient in many dog foods and treats.
A Golden Retriever gently holding several carrots in its mouth.
Celery
In addition to vitamins A, B, and C, celery contains nutrients that can support a healthy heart and potentially help fight cancer. An added bonus: celery is known to help freshen a dog’s breath. Celery dog chews are a popular option for dogs who enjoy this crunchy vegetable.
Green Beans
Plain green beans—whether chopped, steamed, raw, or canned—are safe for dogs. They are packed with important vitamins and minerals, high in fiber, and low in calories. Opt for no-salt canned green beans or fresh/frozen ones. Frozen green beans can also serve as a fun enrichment snack.
Peas
Green peas, snow peas, sugar snap peas, and garden or English peas are all acceptable for dogs on occasion. Peas offer several vitamins, minerals, and are rich in protein and fiber. You can feed your dog fresh or frozen peas, but always avoid canned peas with added sodium.
Spinach
Dogs can eat spinach, but it’s not the top recommendation among vegetables. Spinach contains oxalic acid, which can block the body’s ability to absorb calcium and potentially lead to kidney damage. While a dog would likely need to consume a very large quantity of spinach for this problem to occur, it might be safer to choose other vegetables. If you still want your dog to benefit from this leafy green, spinach dog treats can be given as an occasional snack.
A Dalmatian observing a person gardening and picking fresh leaves.
Vegetables Your Dog Should Avoid
Just as certain fruits are harmful, some vegetables can be toxic or detrimental to a dog’s health. It’s best to keep these out of your dog’s bowl entirely.
Asparagus
While not inherently unsafe for dogs, asparagus offers very little benefit. It’s too tough to be eaten raw, and by the time it’s cooked soft enough for dogs, much of its nutritional value is lost. There are many other, more beneficial vegetables you can share with your dog.
Mushrooms
Wild mushrooms are potentially very toxic for dogs. While only a small percentage of the thousands of mushroom species worldwide are poisonous, those that are can cause severe illness or even death. Therefore, foraging for mushrooms to feed your dog is an absolute no. However, thoroughly washed mushrooms purchased from a supermarket, intended for human consumption, are generally considered safe for dogs. When in doubt, always avoid.
Onions
Dogs should never consume onions. If you suspect your dog has eaten onions, contact your veterinarian immediately. Onions, along with leeks and chives, belong to the Allium family of plants, which are poisonous to most pets, especially cats, but also highly dangerous for dogs. Eating onions can cause your dog’s red blood cells to rupture, leading to anemia, and can also trigger vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea.
Poisoning from onions is particularly serious in Japanese dog breeds like Akitas and Shiba Inus, though all dogs are susceptible. Ensure that family members, especially children, understand not to share foods containing onions with your dog, and secure all leftovers where your dog cannot access them. For more information on what specific vegetables dogs cannot have, you can refer to what veggies can dogs not have.
Conclusion
Understanding what fruits are not good for dogs to eat is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. While a wide variety of human foods can be safe and even beneficial treats for your canine companion, many others pose significant health risks. Always err on the side of caution when considering new foods for your dog. Prioritize removing seeds, pits, and rinds from safe fruits, and always offer new foods in moderation to observe for any adverse reactions.
When in doubt about a specific food, it is always best to consult your veterinarian. They can provide tailored advice based on your dog’s individual health needs and dietary requirements. By being informed and vigilant, you can ensure your furry friend enjoys a healthy, happy life free from preventable dietary dangers.
