As dedicated pet parents, we often want to share every aspect of our lives with our furry companions, including our favorite snacks. While it’s tempting to think that if a fruit is good for us, it must be good for our dogs, this isn’t always the case. Dogs metabolize foods differently than humans, and certain fruits, while healthy for people, can be toxic or dangerous for canines. Understanding what foods can you not feed your dog is crucial for ensuring their long-term health and well-being. This guide will help you navigate the world of fruits, highlighting which ones are safe in moderation and, more importantly, which fruits your dog must never eat.
Fruits Your Dog Can Enjoy (in Moderation)
Many fruits offer a healthy, delicious treat for dogs when given correctly and in moderation. These provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can supplement your dog’s diet. Always remember to remove any seeds, pits, and tough rinds before offering fruit to your pet. For a broader overview of safe snacks, consider exploring what foods are ok for dogs to eat.
Apples
Apples are a fantastic source of vitamins A and C, along with fiber, making them an excellent snack, especially for senior dogs due to their low protein and fat content. Always remove the seeds and core, as apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide. Sliced apples can be a refreshing treat, or you can even freeze them for a crunchy, cool snack.
Bananas
Rich in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper, bananas are a low-calorie treat for dogs when given in moderation. Their high sugar content means they should be an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of their diet.
Blueberries
Often called a “superfood,” blueberries are packed with antioxidants that help prevent cell damage, along with fiber and phytochemicals. These small berries are great for training and can be given fresh or frozen.
Siberian Husky puppy being held up in front of an apple tree.
Watermelon
Comprising 92% water, watermelon is a hydrating treat perfect for hot days. It’s also a good source of vitamins A, B-6, and C, and potassium. Crucially, always remove the rind and all seeds before feeding watermelon to your dog, as they can cause intestinal blockages.
Fruits Your Dog Should Never Eat
While the list of safe fruits is extensive, certain fruits pose significant health risks, ranging from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe toxicity and even death. It’s imperative for dog owners to know what are foods dogs can’t eat to protect their companions.
Avocado
Avocado, a popular superfood for humans, is problematic for dogs. The pit, skin, and leaves of avocados contain a fungicidal toxin called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. While the fleshy part of the fruit has less persin, it can still be too much for some dogs to handle. Furthermore, avocado flesh is high in fat, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset or more serious conditions like pancreatitis if consumed in large quantities. The large pit also presents a choking hazard or can cause intestinal obstruction.
Cherries
With the exception of the ripe, fleshy fruit around the seed, all parts of the cherry plant, including the stems, leaves, and especially the pits, contain cyanide. Cyanide poisoning disrupts cellular oxygen transport, which means your dog’s cells cannot receive enough oxygen. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and bright red gums, all of which constitute a veterinary emergency. If you have a cherry tree, ensure your dog doesn’t have access to fallen fruit. Always discard cherry pits securely in a dog-proof trash bin.
Grapes and Raisins
Perhaps one of the most notorious toxic fruits for dogs, grapes and raisins are highly dangerous regardless of your dog’s breed, sex, or age. Even a small amount can lead to acute kidney failure. The exact toxic substance is still unknown, but the effects are severe and potentially fatal. If you suspect your dog has eaten any grapes or raisins, contact your veterinarian immediately. It’s vital to be vigilant, especially if you have children who might inadvertently drop these fruits. Never add grapes or raisins to a compost pile accessible to your dog. For a detailed list of dangerous foods, including grapes, refer to what shouldnt you feed your dog.
Pembroke Welsh corgi and strawberry
Tomatoes
The ripe, red flesh of a tomato is generally considered safe for dogs in small amounts. However, the green parts of the tomato plant—including the leaves, stems, and unripe green tomatoes—contain solanine, a toxic substance. While a dog would typically need to consume a large quantity of the plant to get sick, it’s safer to avoid feeding tomatoes altogether. If you grow tomatoes in your garden, ensure your dog cannot access the plants.
Other Common Foods to Avoid
While the focus here is on fruits, it’s worth briefly mentioning a few other common foods that are equally dangerous.
Onions, Garlic, Leeks, and Chives
These members of the Allium family are highly toxic to dogs and cats. They can cause damage to your dog’s red blood cells, leading to a condition called hemolytic anemia, and can also result in vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Even small amounts, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, can be harmful. Japanese breeds like Akitas and Shiba Inus are particularly susceptible.
Wild Mushrooms
While certain store-bought mushrooms can be safe for dogs, wild mushrooms should always be avoided. Many wild species are highly poisonous and can cause severe illness, organ failure, or even death. If your dog consumes a wild mushroom, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Xylitol
Though not a fruit, xylitol is a common artificial sweetener found in many human foods, including some fruit-flavored yogurts, sugar-free gum, candies, and even some peanut butters. It is extremely toxic to dogs, causing a rapid release of insulin that leads to a dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia), and can also cause liver failure. Always check ingredient labels carefully.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Toxic Fruit
Accidents happen, and if you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic fruit or any other dangerous food, immediate action is crucial.
- Stay Calm: Panicking will not help your dog.
- Contact Your Veterinarian or Emergency Vet: Have the veterinarian’s number readily available. Provide them with as much information as possible: what your dog ate, how much, and when.
- Monitor Your Dog for Symptoms: Be aware of common signs of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, tremors, or unusual behavior.
- Do Not Induce Vomiting Unless Directed: Inducing vomiting without professional guidance can sometimes do more harm than good.
Ensuring your dog’s safety means being mindful of what they eat. By understanding what fruits can your dog not eat and taking preventative measures, you can help your beloved companion lead a happy, healthy life, free from preventable food-related emergencies. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized dietary advice for your dog.
