Can Dogs Eat Apricots? Complete Safety & Nutrition Guide

Quick Answer: Yes, dogs can eat apricots when properly prepared, but only the flesh without the pit, and it should be fed in moderation. According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and American Kennel Club (AKC), apricot flesh is non-toxic to dogs and provides valuable nutrients including fiber and vitamins, but the pit must be removed before feeding as it contains cyanide and can cause choking. This comprehensive guide is based on veterinary nutrition research and authoritative safety data.

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Are Apricots Safe for Dogs?

The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) confirms that apricot flesh (without the pit) is safe for dogs. Apricots are listed on the ASPCA's safe foods list and are widely recommended by veterinarians as a healthy, nutrient-rich treat.

However, apricot pits are extremely dangerous and must be removed before feeding. According to the ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline, apricot pits contain cyanide and can also cause choking or intestinal blockage.

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Nutritional Value of Apricots

According to the USDA FoodData Central database, one medium apricot (35g) contains:

Source: USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov)

Apricots are particularly beneficial because they are:

• High in fiber - Helps with digestion and promotes regularity
• Rich in vitamin A - Supports vision and immune function
• Source of antioxidants - Provides beta-carotene and vitamin E
• Very low in calories - Great for weight management
• Hydrating - High water content

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How Much Apricots Can Dogs Eat?

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends following the 10% rule: treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake.

Recommended Serving Sizes

Important: These are general guidelines. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice, especially if your dog has health conditions or dietary restrictions.

Frequency

Most veterinarians suggest feeding apricots as an occasional treat, no more than 2-3 times per week.

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Potential Risks and Precautions

⚠️ Apricot Pits (Critical)

Apricot pits contain cyanide and must be completely removed. According to the ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline:

• Cyanide content - Pits contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when chewed or digested
• Toxic in large quantities - While a single pit may not cause immediate harm, it should be avoided
• Choking hazard - Pits can also be a choking hazard
• Intestinal blockage - Can cause obstruction

Always remove the pit completely before feeding apricots to dogs.

⚠️ Choking Hazard

Apricot pits are a serious choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockage. According to the ASPCA:

• Size - Pits are large enough to block airways
• Shape - Can get lodged in the throat or intestines
• Emergency situation - Requires immediate veterinary care

Never feed apricots with pits to dogs.

⚠️ Sugar Content

Apricots contain natural sugars. Feed in moderation, especially for dogs with diabetes.

⚠️ Digestive Issues

Too many apricots can cause digestive upset due to high fiber and sugar content. Feed in moderation.

⚠️ Dried Apricots

Dried apricots should be fed with caution or avoided. According to the ASPCA:

• High sugar content - Dried apricots are very high in sugar
• Sulfites - May contain sulfites as preservatives
• Pit fragments - May contain pit fragments

Stick to fresh apricots when possible.

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Safe Ways to Feed Apricots to Dogs

1. Fresh Slices (Recommended)

Best method: Cut apricot into small, pit-free slices, removing the pit completely. Steps:

1. Wash the apricot thoroughly
2. Cut the apricot in half along the natural seam
3. Remove the pit completely (check both halves)
4. Cut into small, bite-sized pieces
5. Feed as an occasional treat
6. Monitor for any adverse reactions

2. Cooked Apricots

Cooked apricots (no sugar added) can be easier to digest for some dogs. Ensure the pit is removed before cooking.

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What to Do If Your Dog Eats an Apricot Pit

Immediate Actions

If your dog has eaten an apricot pit, take immediate action:

1. Do not induce vomiting - The pit can cause more damage coming back up
2. Contact your veterinarian immediately - Call your vet or emergency clinic right away
3. Monitor for symptoms - Watch for signs of distress:

- Choking or difficulty breathing

- Vomiting

- Abdominal pain or discomfort

- Lethargy

- Loss of appetite

- Bloody stool

- Straining to defecate

- Signs of cyanide poisoning (difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, red gums)

When to Seek Emergency Care

Seek immediate emergency veterinary care if your dog shows any of these symptoms:

• Choking or difficulty breathing
• Repeated vomiting
• Abdominal pain or bloating
• Signs of cyanide poisoning
• Lethargy or collapse

Time is critical - Early intervention can save your dog's life.

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When to Avoid Feeding Apricots

Consult your veterinarian before feeding apricots if your dog:

• Has been diagnosed with diabetes - High sugar content may affect blood sugar
• Has digestive issues - High fiber content may cause problems
• Is on a restricted diet for medical reasons

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can puppies eat apricots?

Yes, in very small amounts, according to the AKC. Puppies can eat apricot flesh (pit removed) as an occasional treat, but their primary diet should be a high-quality puppy food formulated for their specific nutritional needs.

Can dogs eat apricots every day?

Not recommended. Apricots should be an occasional treat, not a daily food. Feed no more than 2-3 times per week to prevent overconsumption of sugar and fiber.

Can dogs eat apricot pits?

No. Apricot pits contain cyanide and are a choking hazard. They should never be fed to dogs. Always remove the pit completely before feeding.

Can dogs eat dried apricots?

Not recommended. Dried apricots are very high in sugar and may contain sulfites or pit fragments. Stick to fresh apricots when possible.

Can dogs eat canned apricots?

Not recommended. Canned apricots often contain added sugar and preservatives, which can cause health issues. Stick to fresh apricots.

Is apricot good for dogs?

Apricots can be beneficial in small amounts due to their fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidant content, but they should be fed in moderation. Most veterinarians recommend feeding them only as an occasional treat.

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Key Takeaways

• ✅ Safe (flesh only, pit removed) - Apricot flesh is non-toxic and ASPCA-approved when fed in moderation
• ✅ High in fiber - Promotes digestive health
• ✅ Rich in vitamin A - Supports vision and immune function
• ✅ Source of antioxidants - Provides beta-carotene and vitamin E
• ✅ Very low calorie - Great for weight management
• ⚠️ Remove pit completely - Critical safety requirement (contains cyanide)
• ⚠️ Choking hazard - Pits can cause choking or intestinal blockage
• ⚠️ Moderation - High sugar and fiber content means limited portions
• ⚠️ Monitor for diabetes - Can affect blood sugar levels
• ❌ Never feed pits - Contain cyanide and can cause serious injury
• ⚠️ Emergency care - Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog eats a pit

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Sources & References

1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control - "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets" - aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
2. American Kennel Club (AKC) - "Can Dogs Eat Apricots?" - akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-apricots
3. USDA FoodData Central - Nutritional data for apricots - fdc.nal.usda.gov
4. Pet Poison Helpline - "Cyanide Poisoning in Pets" - petpoisonhelpline.com
5. VCA Animal Hospitals - "Nutrition - General Feeding Guidelines for Dogs" - vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/nutrition-general-feeding-guidelines-for-dogs
6. PetMD - "Can Dogs Eat Apricots?" - petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-apricots

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Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your dog has eaten an apricot pit, contact your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately. Last reviewed: January 2026