Can dogs eat apricots?

Crack an apricot stone and you find a small almond-like kernel. These kernels are known for their high amygdalin content, and even people are warned to limit them. A dog chewing through stones could release this compound, and a whole stone is a choking and obstruction risk.

Bitter apricot kernels sold in health shops should be stored well out of reach.

Fresh apricot leaves and twigs from garden trees contain the same compound, so do not let puppies chew fallen branches.

A fresh apricot weighs about 35 g and has roughly 17 calories. Half an apricot is plenty for a small dog, and one whole stoned apricot, sliced, suits a large dog. The skin is soft and can stay on.

Frozen apricot slices are a pleasant summer option. Thaw them for a minute or two for small dogs, so the pieces are not rock hard on their teeth.

Dried apricots are far denser in sugar and fiber than fresh, and many are treated with sulfites to keep their orange color. A dog that eats a bag of dried apricots is likely to have diarrhea. If you share at all, one small piece chopped up is the most to offer.

Apricot trees are increasingly common in warm gardens across Europe, and ripe fruit drops in midsummer. Dogs tend to eat fallen apricots whole, stone and all. During harvest weeks, collect fallen fruit each morning and evening, and do not leave stones on garden tables where a curious nose can reach them.