Can Dogs Eat Apricots?

If you’ve ever been snacking on a sweet, juicy apricot and caught your dog giving you those wide, pleading eyes, you may have wondered, can dogs eat apricots? The short answer is yes, but with some very important precautions. While apricots can actually be a tasty and healthy treat for your pup, there are parts of the fruit that are dangerous if eaten. Let’s dig into everything you need to know before sharing this delicious snack with your pup.

The Good Stuff: Why Apricots Can Be Healthy for Dogs

The flesh of a ripe apricot is packed with nutrients that aren’t just good for humans, but can be beneficial for dogs too. Apricots are rich in vitamins A and C, both of which help support your dog’s immune system and overall health. Vitamin A is also great for vision, while vitamin C can act as an antioxidant.

Apricots also contain potassium and fiber. Potassium helps keep muscles and nerves functioning properly, while fiber supports healthy digestion. In moderation, a bite or two of apricot can be a refreshing treat that gives your pup a little nutritional boost.

Another perk is that apricots are naturally sweet and hydrating thanks to their high water content. On a hot summer day, a small piece of apricot can feel like a mini popsicle for your dog.

The Not-So-Good Stuff: Apricot Pits and Leaves

Now for the flip side of the question, can dogs eat apricots safely? The answer depends on how the fruit is prepared. While the orange flesh is fine, the pit, stem, and leaves of an apricot are definitely off-limits. These parts of the plant contain cyanogenic compounds that can release cyanide when chewed and digested. Even though the amount may be small, it can potentially make your dog sick.

Apricot pits also present a choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed whole. In short, if you want to share apricots with your pup, make sure the fruit is carefully prepared. That means no pit, no stem, and no leaves.

How to Safely Feed Apricots to Your Dog

If you want your dog to enjoy this sweet snack, here are some safe serving tips:

• Wash the apricot thoroughly before preparing it.

• Remove the pit, stem, and any leaves.
• Cut the flesh into small bite-sized pieces to make it easy to chew and digest.
• Start with just a small piece to make sure your dog tolerates it well.

Keep in mind that apricots, like many fruits, are high in natural sugars. While a small amount is perfectly fine, too much fruit can upset your dog’s stomach and may contribute to weight gain if offered regularly.

A good rule of thumb is to follow the 90/10 rule: 90 percent of your dog’s calories should come from their balanced dog food, and treats (including fruits like apricots) should make up only 10 percent.

Can Dogs Eat Dried Apricots?

Another common question is whether dried apricots are safe for dogs. While dried apricots are not toxic in the way pits and leaves are, they do come with some caveats. Drying the fruit concentrates the sugar content, which means a small dried apricot packs a much bigger punch than a fresh slice. Too much sugar, even from natural sources, isn’t good for dogs and can lead to tummy troubles or weight gain.

Some store-bought dried apricots may also contain preservatives or added sweeteners that aren’t great for dogs. Fresh fruit is usually the healthier choice.

Signs of Apricot Trouble

If your dog accidentally gets into an apricot pit, stem, or leaves, you’ll want to keep a close eye on them. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in dogs can include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Dilated pupils
• Bright red gums
• Weakness or collapse

If you notice any of these signs, or if you know your dog swallowed a pit, call your veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic immediately.

Even if your dog only eats the flesh, too much apricot at once can cause digestive upset. Watch out for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or bloating if your pup indulges in more than just a bite or two.

Fun Ways to Treat Your Dog with Apricot

If you’ve made sure your apricot is pit-free and safe, you can get creative with how you share it with your pup. A few fun ideas include:

• Mixing small apricot pieces with their regular kibble as a surprise topping
• Freezing apricot slices and serving them as a cool summer snack
• Blending apricot flesh with plain Greek yogurt to make a dog-safe fruit parfait

These options let your dog enjoy the fruit while keeping portions small and safe.

So, Can Dogs Eat Apricots?

Yes, dogs can eat apricots, but only if you’re careful. The fleshy orange part of the fruit can be a tasty and nutritious snack, while the pit, stem, and leaves should be completely avoided. Stick to small amounts, keep it occasional, and your dog can safely enjoy a bite of this juicy fruit.

When it comes to your dog’s diet, it’s always a good idea to check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods. Every dog is different, and what works for one pup may not be a good fit for another.

Protecting Your Pup with Pet Insurance

As much as we try to keep our dogs safe, accidents can still happen. Maybe your curious pup sneaks an apricot pit off the counter or gets into something else they shouldn’t. Veterinary emergencies can be stressful and expensive, which is why many pet parents turn to pet insurance. With the right plan, you can focus on your dog’s health without worrying as much about the financial side of care.

References:

1. https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-tips/can-dogs-have-apricots/
2. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/apricot
3. https://www.metlifepetinsurance.com/blog/pet-care/fruits-herbs-veggies-safe-for-dogs/

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.