Apricots are delicious and nutritious fruit that many people enjoy. But can dogs eat apricots? The short answer is yes, and dogs can eat apricots in moderation. While dogs can eat apricot in moderation, it’s important to note that apricots contain a pit or stone in the center, which can be a choking hazard for most dogs. Additionally, apricots can also contain traces of pesticides, so it’s important to wash the fruit before giving it to your dog.
In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the benefits and risks of feeding apricots to your dog, as well as some tips on providing them to your furry friend safely.
Health Benefits of Apricots for Dogs
Can dogs eat apricots? Apricots can offer several health benefits for dogs when fed in moderation. Some of these benefits include:
- Vitamin A: Apricots are a good source of vitamin A, essential for maintaining good vision and a healthy immune system in dogs.
- Vitamin C: This vitamin helps support a healthy immune system and may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer in dogs.
- Fiber: The fiber in apricots can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation in dogs.
- Antioxidants: Apricots contain antioxidants that can help protect the body against the harmful effects of free radicals, which can contribute to developing cancer and other diseases. These are extremely important especially to senior dogs.
- Low in calories: As apricots are soft in calories, they can be a healthy snack option for dogs that are overweight or obese.
What Are Apricots?
Apricots are a type of fruit that belongs to the rose family. They are small, round, and usually orange-yellow when ripe. They have a sweet and tangy taste and are often used in baking, cooking, and making jams and jellies.
Apricot fruits are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. They are also low in calories, making them a healthy snack. Apricots are typically in season during the summer, but they can also be found year-round in many supermarkets.
They are native to China and are also grown in many other countries like the USA, Spain, Italy, Chile, etc.
Is Eating Apricots Harmful to Dogs?
Are Apricots Safe for Dogs? Eating an apricot as an occasional treat is generally considered safe for dogs. However, a few things to keep in mind to know about safely sharing apricots with your do and ensure that your dog is not harmed by eating a human food.
- Pits: The pit or stone in the center of the apricot can be a choking hazard and even a life threatening intestinal blockage for dogs. Pet owners can safely feed their dog this sweet treat by removing the pit before giving apricots to your dog.
- Pesticides: Apricots may contain traces of pesticides, so it’s essential to wash the fruit thoroughly before giving it to your dog.
- Feeding in moderation: As with any treat, it’s crucial to feed apricots to your dog in moderation. Overfeeding can cause stomach upset or diarrhea.
- Allergies: Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to apricots, so it’s important to monitor your dog for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
How Many Apricots Can a Dog Eat?
Can dogs eat apricots? Dogs should eat apricots in moderation, as they are high in sugar and can cause stomach upset if they eat too many apricots. A general rule of thumb is limiting treats to 10% human foods for your dog’s daily caloric intake. Therefore, the number of apricots a dog can eat will depend on their size, breed, and activity level.
A small dog can have a slice or two of apricot, while a larger dog can have a few slices. It is also important to note that apricots should be given as a treat, not as a replacement for a regular pet’s diet.
You should always supervise your dog when eating apricots and remove the apricot pits before giving it to them. It’s also important to monitor your dog for any signs of stomach upset or allergic reactions. Then, stop feeding apricots and consult your veterinarian if you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms.
What Should I Do if My Dog Eats an Apricot Pit?
The entire apricot pits can pose a choking hazard and contains small amounts of cyanide which is incredibly toxic to dogs and may lead to apricot poisoning. Here are a few steps you should take whenyour dog swallows a whole apricot pit:
- Call your vet immediately: They can advise you on the best course of action and whether your dog needs to be seen immediately.
- Watch for signs of choking: Dog owners should watch out if their dog has difficulty breathing or making choking sounds, perform the Heimlich maneuver or call emergency services immediately.
- Monitor for signs of cyanide poisoning: Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in many dogs include difficulty breathing, bright red gums, dilated pupils, and muscle tremors.
- Induce vomiting: Your veterinarian may recommend inducing vomiting to remove the apricot pit from your dog’s stomach.
- Treatment: Your veterinarian may provide treatment, such as activated charcoal, to bind and remove any cyanide in the stomach or intestines or provide supportive care.
Is It Safe to Feed Dogs Dried Apricots as Tasty Treats?
Can dogs eat dried apricots? Dried apricots can be a healthy treatment option for dogs if fed in moderation. Dried apricots are a concentrated source of sugar, so it’s important to limit the amount you give to your dog. However, they are also a good source of soluble fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Unlike fresh fruits, it is important to remember that dried fruits may also contain preservatives, sulfites, or added sugar, which could harm your dog. Therefore, it’s best to check the label or buy from reputable sources that use natural drying methods and don’t add artificial ingredients.
Can Dogs Eat Apricot Seeds?
Dogs should not eat apricot seeds, as they contain small amounts of cyanide which is toxic to dogs. Eating apricot seeds can cause cyanide poisoning, leading to difficulty breathing, bright red gums, dilated pupils, and muscle tremors. If your dog has eaten apricot seeds, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away.
Can Dogs Eat Apricot Skin?
As for apricot skin, it is generally safe for dogs to eat. However, it’s important to ensure that the apricot is washed thoroughly before giving it to your dog to remove any traces of pesticides. Additionally, if your dog has a history of food allergies, it’s best to avoid giving them apricot skin as they may have an allergic reaction.
How Can I Add Apricots to My Dog’s Diet?
Apricot fruit can be a delicious and healthy treat for dogs when fed in moderation. Here are a few ways to add apricots to your dog’s diet:
- Fresh apricots: Fresh apricots can be given as a treat, but removing the pit is important before giving it to your dog. You can cut the apricot into small pieces and feed them to your dog.
- Dried apricots: Dried apricots can also be given as a treat, but it’s important to ensure that they do not contain preservatives, sulfites, or added sugar. You can give your dog small pieces or slices of dried apricot.
- Apricot puree: You can make an apricot puree by blending fresh apricots and freezing them in ice cube trays. This can be a great way to add apricots to your dog’s diet during the summer months. You can also add a small amount of apricot puree to your dog’s food.
- Apricot-based dog treats: You can also purchase apricot-based dog treats specially formulated for dogs. Just be sure to read the ingredient list and check for any harmful ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Can dogs eat apricots? In conclusion, apricots can be a healthy, delicious, and refreshing treat for dogs when fed in moderation. However, it’s important to remember that apricots can contain pits or stones, which can be a choking hazard for dogs. Additionally, make sure to wash the fruit before giving it to your dog to remove any traces of pesticides.
If you need more clarification about the safety of giving your dog apricots, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian first. However, with a few simple precautions, you can safely add apricots to your dog’s diet and enjoy watching them savor this sweet summer treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my dog eats an apricot?
Eating fresh apricot does not threaten your dog; however, there may be potential dangers in dried pears and apricot jelly. When these human foods are eaten, they can cause digestive blockages or kidney problems. Therefore, for your pet's safety, it is best to avoid dried pears and apricot jelly altogether.
Are dried apricots OK for dogs to eat?
If your pup has gotten hold of your dried apricot snack, there is no need to panic. However, if you would prefer to avoid it altogether, you should be aware that dried fruit often contains higher calories and sugar than fresh fruit and can sometimes contain added sugars, leading to weight gain.
How many apricots can a dog eat?
If your dog is experiencing constipation after eating apricots, it's best to feed them in smaller amounts. Apricots should make up no more than 5% of your dog’s diet, and the best way to consume the fruit in moderate quantities is to spread the servings over a few weeks.
What fruit Cannot be eaten by dogs?
Cats should steer clear of the fruit, as the seed contains cyanide which can be deadly to dogs. In addition, ingesting cyanide prevents oxygen from being transported through the body, stopping your pup from receiving enough oxygen.
