The Complete Guide to Dogs Eating Apricots: Good or Bad?

ByCanine Bible

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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Yes, dogs can eat apricots in moderation, and this naturally sweet fruit can offer some valuable nutrients. However, before sharing apricots with your pup, there are several important safety considerations. While the soft flesh of a fresh apricot is generally safe, the pits, leaves, and stems contain cyanogenic compounds that can be toxic to dogs if eaten. Even dried apricots, though convenient, can contain added sugars that may be harmful. Plus, what about apricot skins? Are canned apricots safe? Can too many apricots lead to digestive upset? This guide will break down the benefits, potential risks, and the safest way to introduce apricots into your dog’s diet.

Are Apricots Good For Dogs?

Apricots can be a healthy and nutritious dog treat when given in moderation.

  • Apricots are rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function, eye health, and skin health in dogs.
  • They contain minerals such as potassium, copper, and magnesium, which help maintain proper hydration, nerve function, and metabolic health.
  • Provide a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and supporting healthy bowel movements when served in small portions.
  • They are naturally low in fat and contain no cholesterol, making them a light, low-calorie treat option for dogs.
  • Apricots contain antioxidants like beta-carotene and polyphenols, which help fight inflammation and support overall cellular health.
  • Apricots also provide natural hydration due to their high water content, which can help support kidney and urinary health.

Always serve only the fresh apricot flesh—remove the pit, stem, and leaves, as these contain cyanogenic compounds that can be toxic to dogs. Feed apricots in small amounts to avoid digestive upset, and avoid dried or canned apricots with added sugars or preservatives.

Benefits

100 grams (3.5-ounce oz) of apricot contains the following nutrients:

Apricot Nutrition Chart (100g)

Nutrient Analysis

Component Description Nutritional Value (per 100g of Raw Apricots) Safe for Dogs?
Water Hydrating and supports digestion 86g ✅ Safe
Calories Provides energy 48 kcal ✅ Safe
Carbohydrates Main energy source, mostly natural sugars 11.1g ✅ Safe (in moderation)
Natural Sugars Includes fructose and sucrose 9g ✅ Safe (limit for diabetic dogs)
Fiber Aids digestion and supports bowel health 2g ✅ Safe
Protein Minimal amount 1.4g ✅ Safe
Fat Very low in fat 0.39g ✅ Safe
Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene) Supports vision, immune health, and skin 96µg ✅ Safe
Vitamin C Boosts immune function 10mg ✅ Safe
Potassium Supports muscle and nerve health 259mg ✅ Safe
Calcium Supports bone health 13mg ✅ Safe
Magnesium Supports metabolic functions 10mg ✅ Safe
Phosphorus Supports bones and teeth 23mg ✅ Safe
Iron Supports oxygen transport 0.39mg ✅ Safe
Folate (Vitamin B9) Important for cell growth 9µg ✅ Safe
Choline Supports liver and brain function 3.7mg ✅ Safe
Antioxidants Rich in beta-carotene and flavonoids High ✅ Safe
Pit (Seed) Contains cyanogenic compounds; dangerous if chewed — ❌ Unsafe (remove pit)
Skin Edible but may cause mild digestive issues in some dogs — ⚠️ Safe (monitor tolerance)
Overconsumption Too many apricots can cause diarrhea or stomach upset — ⚠️ Limit intake

Risks & Considerations Before Feeding Apricots to Dogs

While apricots can be a safe and nutritious treat for dogs when given in moderation, there are several risks and considerations to keep in mind before feeding them to your canine companion:

  • Avoid the pit, stem, and leaves: Apricot pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanogenic compounds (cyanide), which are toxic to dogs. The pits also pose a serious choking and intestinal blockage risk. Only feed the soft fruit flesh.
  • Canned or dried apricots are not ideal: Canned apricots often contain added sugars or syrups, and dried apricots are highly concentrated in sugar. Both can contribute to obesity, digestive issues, and blood sugar spikes in dogs.
  • High sugar content: Apricots contain natural sugars that may still lead to gastrointestinal upset, weight gain, or worsen conditions like diabetes if fed in excess.
  • Potential for digestive issues: Some dogs may react to the fruit’s fiber content, leading to diarrhea, gas, or bloating—especially if they are not used to fruit. Introduce apricots slowly to see how your dog responds.
  • Choking and blockage hazards: Besides the toxic risk, the hard pit is difficult to digest and can block the intestines or damage the digestive tract if swallowed.

Are Dogs Allergic to Apricots?

Most dogs are not allergic to apricots, and it’s generally considered safe for canine consumption. However, some dogs may develop an allergic reaction, as with any food. Food allergies in dogs typically manifest as itchy skin, hives, infections, and anaphylaxis (a medical emergency) in severe cases. If you suspect your dog is having an allergic reaction to any food, including apricot, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian.

Additionally, conducting an at-home dog allergy test like the 5Strands can help determine if your dog is allergic or intolerant to certain foods. For a more comprehensive approach, consider an at-home dog gut health test, like the Embark Gut Health Test, which can provide deeper insights into your dog’s digestive health and immune function. These tests can identify food sensitivities, bacterial imbalances, and other underlying issues contributing to allergies, helping you take proactive steps to prevent discomfort and support your dog’s overall well-being.

Risks

The following symptoms may indicate a bad reaction to apricot.

  • Discomfort and bloating
  • Gas
  • Upset stomach
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Drooling or pawing at the mouth (if they chewed part of the pit)
  • Difficulty breathing or weakness (possible signs of cyanide toxicity from pits)

What to Do If A Dog Reacts Badly to Apricots

Dogs showing worsening symptoms, such as blood in their vomit or stool, difficulty breathing, weakness, or collapse, should be taken to the veterinarian immediately.

1. Contact a veterinarian immediately: Even if your dog seems fine, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet poison hotline right away. This includes services such as the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-764-7661. If you can’t reach your vet, you can chat live with a registered online veterinary professional via our online vet chat or video chat support (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). You can also schedule an at-home veterinary appointment with The Vets, a mobile veterinary service that provides at-home vet care nationwide for just about everything.

2. Gather important information: When speaking to a vet, provide: Quantity consumed (estimate if unsure), time of ingestion, and dog’s weight and breed (to assess potential risk).

3. Follow veterinary instructions: The vet may suggest monitoring at home or emergency treatment at the clinic.

  • Keep your dog calm and prevent them from eating anything else.
  • Be prepared to transport your dog to the vet quickly if advised.
  • Bring any remaining apricot or packaging to help the vet assess the situation.

How to Safely Feed Apricots to Dogs

When feeding apricots to your dog, it’s important to follow a few simple guidelines to keep them safe:

  • Remove the pit, stem, and leaves
  • Serve in moderation
  • Start with small amounts
  • Avoid canned, dried, or processed apricots
  • Cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Monitor for any reactions

Ways to Feed Apricots to Dogs

  • As a snack: Serve small, fresh chunks of ripe apricot flesh as a simple, natural treat.
  • Meal topper: Mix a few finely chopped apricot pieces into your dog’s food for added vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Frozen apricot bites: Freeze small pieces of apricot for a refreshing summer treat—ideal for hydration and low-calorie snacking.
  • Apricot purée: Blend fresh apricot flesh (no pit) and mix a small spoonful with plain yogurt for a dog-friendly treat.
  • Homemade apricot treats: Use fresh apricots in baked dog treats or homemade chew snacks—keeping portions small and pit-free.
  • Apricot-infused water: Add a tiny slice of apricot to your dog’s water bowl for a light, fruity flavor without added sugar.
  • Dehydrated slices (homemade only): If you make dehydrated apricots yourself without added sugar, you can offer a thin slice as a chewy treat in moderation.

As with any new food, starting slowly and feeding gradually is recommended to give the digestive system time to adjust. 

How Much Apricot Can Dogs Eat?

Treats should only constitute 10% of your dog’s diet, with the remaining 90% coming from well-balanced dog food. This guideline also applies to healthy treats like apricots. Below, you’ll find general guidelines for safely portioning apricots based on your dog’s weight.

Dog SizeServing SizeBreed Examples
Extra-small (2-15 lbs.)1 small chunk or 1–2 teaspoons dicedShih Tzu, Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Maltese
Small (16-25 lbs.)1–2 small chunks (about 1–2 tbsp diced)Boston Terriers, Beagles, Dachshund
Medium (26-60 lbs.)2–3 chunks (about 2–3 tbsp diced)Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, Border Collies
Large (61-90 lbs.)3–4 chunks (about ¼ cup diced)Golden Retrievers, Pit Bulls, Boxers, Labrador Retrievers
Extra-large (91+ lbs.)4–5 chunks (about ⅓ cup diced)Bullmastiffs, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Great Pyrenees

Can Puppies Eat Apricots?

Yes, puppies can eat apricots, but only in very small amounts and with strict precautions. Because puppies have more sensitive digestive systems, it’s best to start with just a tiny portion—such as ½ to 1 teaspoon of fresh, ripe apricot flesh—to see how they react. Feeding too many apricots at once can lead to digestive upset, since puppies may struggle to handle the fruit’s natural sugars and fiber. Fresh apricot flesh is the only safe option for puppies—never feed the pit, stem, or leaves, as these contain cyanogenic compounds that are toxic and can also cause choking and intestinal blockage. Avoid canned apricots, dried apricots, apricot jams, and anything with added sugar or sweeteners, as these can be harmful to puppies. When introducing apricots or any new food, avoid offering multiple new foods on the same day and monitor for sensitivities or allergies. If your puppy develops gas, diarrhea, vomiting, or discomfort, feeding only one new food at a time helps identify the cause. Try offering a small taste of diced, fresh apricot, then wait several days to observe how your puppy’s digestive system responds before offering more. Always remove the pit entirely and cut the fruit into very small, puppy-safe pieces to prevent choking and ensure easy digestion.

Alternatives

Here’s a list of alternatives to apricots that are just as safe and nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dogs should not eat dried apricots because they are highly concentrated in natural sugar, which can lead to digestive upset, obesity, and blood sugar spikes. Many store-bought dried apricots also contain preservatives like sulfur dioxide, which can irritate a dog’s stomach. Additionally, small dried pieces can still contain bits of pit or stem, posing toxicity or choking risks. Fresh apricot flesh is always the safer choice.

Yes, dogs can eat fresh apricots in moderation as long as the pit, stem, and leaves are completely removed. The soft flesh contains vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber that can benefit a dog’s overall health. However, apricots are also high in natural sugars, so portion size should stay small. Always introduce fresh apricots gradually to monitor for digestive sensitivity.

No, dogs should never eat apricot seeds (pits), as they contain cyanogenic compounds—substances that release cyanide when chewed. This can be poisonous to dogs even in small amounts. The hard pit also poses a choking hazard and can cause intestinal obstruction if swallowed. If your dog ingests an apricot seed, contact your veterinarian immediately.

No, dogs should not eat apricots daily. Although the fruit offers vitamins and antioxidants, its high natural sugar and fiber content can cause gastrointestinal upset if fed too frequently. Apricots are best served as an occasional treat rather than part of a dog’s daily diet. Offering them once or twice a week in small portions is a safer guideline.

Yes, dogs can safely eat apricots without the pit, which is the only way they should be served. Removing the pit eliminates the cyanide risk and prevents choking or internal obstruction. Once the pit is removed, the fruit can be cut into small chunks for easy digestion. Even pit-free apricots should be fed in small amounts to avoid stomach upset.

No, dogs should avoid canned apricots because they usually contain added sugars, syrups, or preservatives that can be harmful. The overly sweet liquid can cause digestive issues and contribute to weight gain or diabetes over time. Canned fruit also has a much higher sugar concentration than fresh apricots. Stick to fresh, ripe apricot flesh only.

The Bottom Line

Apricots can be a healthy treat for dogs when served carefully, but they also come with important safety rules every owner should follow. The soft flesh offers valuable nutrients such as vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, yet the pit, stem, and leaves pose serious risks due to their cyanide content. Moderation is key, and small, pit-free pieces are the only safe way to share this fruit with your dog. By introducing apricots slowly and watching for any digestive changes, you can enjoy offering this sweet snack without compromising your dog’s safety.

Whether you’re introducing apricot or any new treat, unexpected reactions can happen. Having the right pet insurance ensures you can handle any vet visits with peace of mind. Check out our guide to the best pet insurance plans to keep your furry friend covered in every situation. If you’re looking for other healthy snack options, check out the best dog treats to find safe and nutritious alternatives. And if you’re seeking something more therapeutic to support anxiety, pain, inflammation, or other health concerns, explore the benefits of CBD oil for dogs and CBD dog treats for a natural way to help your pup feel their best.

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