Can dogs eat apricots?
✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last updated: 2026-06-17
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The full picture
Apricots share the stone-fruit family warning: flesh is safe, stone is dangerous. The stone contains amygdalin, a cyanide-releasing compound, and is the right size to cause intestinal blockage. Always pit apricots before offering. Dried apricots are worse — more concentrated sugar and often sulphur preservatives that some dogs react to. Apricot jam usually contains too much sugar to be a good share.
If your dog ate more than a safe amount
For a small accidental taste, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, or signs of discomfort over the next few hours. For a large amount or if your dog is small or has existing health conditions, call your vet. When in doubt, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
Risks to watch for
- Stone: cyanide + blockage + choking
- Sugar content
- Sulphur preservatives in dried
Potential benefits
- Vitamin A, beta-carotene
- Fiber
- Potassium
Safe portion size
A couple of chunks of flesh occasionally.
Does size or breed matter?
No specific toxicity concern from ripe apricots flesh itself. As with most fruit, small and toy breeds should get proportionally smaller portions given their lower daily calorie/sugar allowance, and any dog prone to weight gain, diabetes, or pancreatitis should have apricots as an occasional treat rather than a regular one. Check for and remove any pit, stone, or large seed before serving, as these are a choking and obstruction risk regardless of breed.