The Complete Guide to Dogs Eating Pears: Good or Unsafe?

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

Yes, dogs can eat pears in moderation, and this juicy fruit can offer some nutritional benefits. However, before adding pears to your dog’s diet, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. While fresh pear slices without seeds or added sugar are generally safe for dogs, certain preparations—like canned pears in syrup—often contain excess sugar, which can be harmful. What about pear seeds and the core? Are dried pears a safe alternative? Can too much pear upset your dog’s stomach? This guide will cover the benefits, potential risks, and the safest way to include pears in your dog’s diet.

Are Pears Good For Dogs?

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

Always serve fresh pear in small, bite-sized pieces and remove the seeds and core beforehand, as pear seeds contain traces of cyanide and pose a choking hazard. Avoid canned pears and pear products with added sugars or artificial ingredients.

Benefits

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

Pear Nutrition Chart (100g)

Nutrient Analysis

Risks & Considerations Before Feeding Pears to Dogs

While pears 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:

Pear Seeds Toxicity In Dogs

Pear seeds contain trace amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when chewed or digested. While a small number of seeds is unlikely to harm most dogs, ingestion of large quantities could lead to cyanide poisoning, which may cause symptoms like lethargy, seizures, collapse, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, drooling, or muscle tremors.

The actual lethal dose of cyanide varies by dog size and individual tolerance. However:

• Dogs would need to eat a relatively large number of seeds to reach dangerous levels.
• Small dogs are at greater risk, even with a few seeds, due to their lower body weight.

Can Dogs Eat Pears With Skin?

Dogs can eat pear skin as long as it has been thoroughly washed to remove pesticides and residues. The skin is high in fiber and may even offer extra nutrients, but it can be tough for some dogs to digest. Consider peeling the pear if your dog has a sensitive stomach or experiences gas. Always monitor your dog after introducing pear skin for the first time.

Are Dogs Allergic to Pears?

Risks

The following symptoms may indicate a bad reaction to pears.

What to Do If A Dog Reacts Badly to Pears

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 like the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or 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 the 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 pears or packaging to help the vet assess the situation.

How to Safely Feed Pears to Dogs

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

Ways to Feed Pears to Dogs

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

Best Pear Dog Food

If you’re looking to incorporate pears into your dog’s diet and take advantage of their gentle fiber and antioxidant properties, consider ACANA Singles Limited Ingredient Duck & Pear Recipe. This premium formula is crafted with free-run duck as the first ingredient, expertly paired with whole Bartlett pears—a hypoallergenic fruit rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and natural sweetness. ACANA’s thoughtfully balanced kibble supports healthy digestion, immune defense, and skin health, offering a clean, nutrient-rich option for dogs who thrive on simplified, wholesome ingredients.

Best Pear Dog Treat

For those who want to provide the benefits of pears in a delicious, wholesome way, Fruitables Whole Jerky Bites Alaskan Salmon & Pear Flavored Dog Treats offer a naturally delicious and nutrient-rich snack. Crafted with wild-caught Alaskan salmon and subtly sweet pears, these soft jerky bites deliver a powerful combination of lean protein and fiber-rich fruit, supporting healthy digestion, immune function, and skin health.

How Much Pears 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 pears. Below, you’ll find general guidelines for safely portioning pears based on your dog’s weight.

Dog Size	Serving Size (Feed Occasionally)	Breed Examples
Extra-small (2-15 lbs.)	1–2 small pear chunks (about 1 tbsp diced)	Shih Tzu, Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Maltese
Small (16-25 lbs.)	2–3 pear chunks (about 2 tbsp diced)	Boston Terriers, Beagles, Dachshund
Medium (26-60 lbs.)	3–4 pear chunks (about ¼ cup diced)	Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, Border Collies
Large (61-90 lbs.)	5–6 pear chunks (about ⅓–½ cup diced)	Golden Retrievers, Pit Bulls, Boxers, Labrador Retrievers
Extra-large (91+ lbs.)	6–8 pear chunks (about ½ cup diced)	Bullmastiffs, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Great Pyrenees

Can Puppies Eat Pears?

Yes, puppies can eat pears, but only in moderation and in very small amounts. Puppies have delicate, developing digestive systems, so it’s best to start with just a tiny portion—such as a teaspoon of fresh, ripe pear—to see how they react. Feeding too much pear at once may lead to stomach upset since puppies might struggle to digest the natural sugars and fiber. Always choose fresh pear with no added sugars, syrups, or preservatives. Avoid canned, dried pears or processed pear products, as they often contain added sweeteners or chemicals that can harm young dogs. Before offering pear to your puppy, remove the seeds and core, which can pose a choking hazard and contain trace amounts of cyanide. Cut the pear into small, soft chunks that are easy for a puppy to chew and swallow. When introducing pears—or any new food—do not introduce multiple new foods on the same day. This allows you to monitor for any sensitivities or allergic reactions. If your puppy experiences digestive issues, offering just one new food at a time makes it easier to pinpoint the cause. Start slow: offer a teaspoon of fresh, unseasoned, diced pear, then wait a few days to observe your puppy’s reaction before considering another small serving.

Alternatives

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

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line

Pears can be a healthy, refreshing dog treat when prepared and served properly. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this fruit offers several nutritional benefits—but only when given in moderation. Always remove the seeds and core, cut the pear into small chunks, and stick to fresh, unsweetened varieties. As with any new food, it’s important to introduce pears slowly and observe your dog for any unusual reactions. Pears can be a tasty, occasional addition to your dog’s well-balanced diet when served responsibly.

Whether you’re introducing pears 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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Sources

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