Why
Pears are not toxic to dogs. The AKC notes that they provide fiber, copper and vitamins C and K, and they are fairly low in calories. Their crisp, juicy texture makes them a popular treat.
The seeds contain traces of cyanide, and the core and stem are a choking hazard, so remove them before serving. Pears are also high in fiber and natural sugar, and eating too much can upset a dog's stomach.
What to watch out for
- Seeds, core and stem: remove before serving
- Choking on large chunks
- Stomach upset from eating too much fruit
- Canned pears in syrup or juice
- Sugar content for dogs with diabetes or weight problems
How to serve it
- Wash the pear well, remove the stem, core and seeds, and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- The skin is fine for most dogs. Peel it for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Mashed pear can be mixed into plain, xylitol-free yogurt or frozen in a toy.
- Offer a slice or two the first time and watch for loose stool.
How much?
A small dog can have one slice of pear and a large dog a few slices. A whole pear is too much for most dogs.
Asian pears and other varieties
Large, round Asian pears are common in Taiwan, Japan and Korea, and they are often given as gifts. PetMD says Asian pears are safe for dogs when they are prepared properly and given in sensible portions. Western varieties such as Bartlett, Bosc, Anjou and Comice are fine too.
Asian pears can be very large, so a single fruit is far more than any dog needs. Cut a few slices for your dog and keep the rest for yourself. Remove the core and seeds just as you would for any other pear.
Canned pears and pears in juice
The AKC advises skipping canned or jarred pears in sugary syrup, and even the ones labeled as packed in their own juice. Both carry more sugar than a dog needs, which can upset the stomach and add to weight gain over time.
Pear-flavored baby food, pear juice and pear desserts vary a lot. Read the ingredient list before sharing, and avoid anything with added sugar, sweeteners or xylitol.
My dog ate a pear core
A pear core contains only a few seeds, and the seeds have to be chewed for cyanide to be released, so one core is unlikely to poison a medium or large dog. The more practical risk is the core itself, which can get stuck in the throat or gut of a small dog.
Call your vet if your dog is small, if it ate several cores, or if it starts gagging, vomiting or refusing food. Do not try to make it vomit at home unless the vet tells you to.
Common questions
Are pears good for dogs?
Yes, as an occasional treat. Pears are not toxic to dogs. The AKC notes that they provide fiber, copper and vitamins C and K, and they are fairly low in calories.
Are pears bad for dogs?
Not in sensible amounts. The main thing to watch: seeds, core and stem: remove before serving.
Are dogs allowed to have pears?
Yes. Wash the pear well, remove the stem, core and seeds, and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
Sources
- PetMD. Can Dogs Eat Pears? 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).