Can dogs eat pears?
✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last updated: 2026-06-17
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The full picture
Pears are a good fruit for dogs — sweet, juicy, fiber-rich, low-calorie. Decent source of vitamins A, C, K. Like apples, the seeds contain small amounts of cyanogenic compounds, so remove the core before offering. Fresh pear is much better than tinned in syrup. Conference, William, and Rocha varieties all fine. Slice into appropriate-sized pieces.
For a detailed calorie breakdown, see 247CalorieCheck.
Risks to watch for
- Seeds contain cyanide compounds (small amounts)
- Sugar content
- Tinned pears have added sugar
Potential benefits
- Vitamins A, C, K
- Fiber
- Hydrating
Safe portion size
A few slices for small dogs, up to half a pear for large dogs.
Does size or breed matter?
No specific toxicity concern from ripe pears 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 pears 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.