Why
Peach flesh is not toxic to dogs. The AKC notes that small amounts of fresh or frozen peach are a good source of fiber and vitamin A. Peaches are also high in natural sugar, so they work best as an occasional treat.
The pit is the real danger. It is large enough to cause choking or an intestinal blockage, and it contains amygdalin, which releases cyanide. The ASPCA lists the peach tree as toxic to dogs because its stems, leaves and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides.
What to watch out for
- The pit: choking, intestinal blockage and cyanide
- Stems and leaves, which also contain cyanide
- Diarrhea or stomach upset from eating too much
- Canned peaches in heavy syrup
- Sugar content for dogs with diabetes or weight problems
How to serve it
- Wash the peach, cut the flesh away from the pit, and remove the stem.
- Cut the flesh into small cubes or thin slices.
- Throw pits away in a bin with a lid. Dogs often dig them out of open trash.
- Frozen peach slices are a good summer treat. Let them thaw a little so they are not rock hard.
How much?
A small dog can have a few small cubes of peach and a large dog a few slices, now and then.
My dog swallowed a peach pit
A peach pit is big and rough, and it can get stuck in a dog's throat or intestines. PetMD notes that cyanide poisoning would need a dog to chew and swallow many pits, so with one pit the main worry is usually a blockage. Call your vet if your dog swallowed a pit, even if it seems fine.
Do not try to make your dog vomit at home. A hard pit coming back up can get stuck on the way. Contact your vet right away if you see:
- Choking, gagging or repeated retching
- Vomiting, or refusing food
- Straining without passing stool
- Bright red gums, dilated pupils or difficulty breathing
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
Canned, dried and frozen peaches
Canned peaches are usually packed in syrup. The AKC says to skip them, noting that even peaches canned in natural juice have more sugar than any dog needs. A slice that falls off a dessert is not an emergency, but canned peaches should not be a regular treat.
Store-bought dried peaches often contain added sugar and preservatives. Frozen peaches are a better choice, but large, hard chunks can be a choking hazard and may hurt teeth. Thin, partly thawed slices are safest.
Peach trees and fallen fruit
If you have a peach tree, or walk your dog past one, fallen fruit can be a bigger problem than anything from the kitchen. A dog can eat several peaches, pits and all, before you notice. The ASPCA notes that the stems, leaves and seeds are particularly toxic as the leaves wilt, such as on branches that come down after pruning or a storm.
Pick up fallen fruit and branches often during the season. Rotting fruit can also grow mold, which is another reason to keep the ground under the tree clear.
Common questions
Are peaches good for dogs?
Yes, as an occasional treat. Peach flesh is not toxic to dogs. The AKC notes that small amounts of fresh or frozen peach are a good source of fiber and vitamin A.
Are peaches bad for dogs?
Not in sensible amounts. The main thing to watch: the pit: choking, intestinal blockage and cyanide.
Are dogs allowed to have peaches?
Yes. Wash the peach, cut the flesh away from the pit, and remove the stem.
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List – Dogs.
- PetMD. Can Dogs Eat Peaches? Benefits, Risks, and Feeding Tips.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.
- American Kennel Club (AKC). “Can Dogs Eat…?” article series.
If your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. Do not wait for symptoms. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).