Can Dogs Eat Apricot Seeds? The Shocking Truth Every Pet Parent Needs to Know

It’s a sunny afternoon, and you’re slicing up fresh apricots for a snack. Your dog, ever the opportunist, trots over with those big, hopeful eyes, zeroing in on the pile of seeds you’ve set aside. “Can they have a taste?” you wonder. After all, apricots are healthy for humans—so their seeds must be too, right?

If you’ve found yourself asking this question, you’re not alone. As pet parents, we want to share the best parts of our lives with our furry friends, including our favorite foods. But when it comes to apricot seeds, the answer isn’t as simple as “yes” or “no.” In fact, it could be a matter of life or death for your pup.

Let’s dive into the details: Are apricot seeds safe for dogs? What risks do they pose? And what are the healthier alternatives you can offer instead?

Table of Contents

1. Can Dogs Eat Apricot Seeds? The Short Answer
2. Potential “Benefits” of Apricot Seeds (and Why They’re Not Worth It)
3. The Real Risks: Why Apricot Seeds Are Dangerous for Dogs
   • Cyanide Poisoning: The Hidden Threat
   • Sugar Content: A Sneaky Concern
   • Choking and Blockage Hazards
   • Stomach Upset and Digestive Issues
4. Guidelines: How Much (If Any) Apricot Seed Is Safe?
5. Healthier Alternatives to Apricot Seeds
6. FAQ: Your Apricot Seed Questions Answered
7. Conclusion: Prioritize Safety, Always

1. Can Dogs Eat Apricot Seeds? The Short Answer

No, dogs should not eat apricot seeds.

Apricot seeds (also called “pits” or “kernels”) contain a compound called amygdalin, which breaks down into cyanide when chewed or digested. Cyanide is a potent toxin that can cause severe illness or even death in dogs, even in small amounts. While some humans claim apricot seeds have health benefits, these claims are unproven and do not apply to our canine companions. The risks of cyanide poisoning far outweigh any potential upsides.

2. Potential “Benefits” of Apricot Seeds (and Why They’re Not Worth It)

You might have heard humans talk about apricot seeds as a “superfood”—rich in nutrients like fiber, potassium, or vitamin E. While it’s true that apricot seeds contain trace amounts of these nutrients, there is no scientific evidence to support feeding them to dogs, and the risks are critical.

For example:

• Fiber: Dogs need fiber, but they can get it from safe sources like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, or green beans—without the cyanide risk.
• Potassium: Bananas and spinach are excellent, toxin-free sources of potassium for dogs.
• Vitamin E: Carrots, sunflower seeds (unsalted, in moderation), and fish oil provide vitamin E safely.

In short: Any nutrient apricot seeds might offer can be found in other foods that won’t poison your dog. There’s no reason to take the risk.

3. The Real Risks: Why Apricot Seeds Are Dangerous for Dogs

Let’s break down the specific dangers of apricot seeds for dogs, starting with the most severe:

Cyanide Poisoning: The Hidden Threat

Apricot seeds are part of the Prunus family, which includes cherries, peaches, plums, and almonds. All these fruits’ seeds/pits contain amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside. When a dog chews or swallows apricot seeds, their body (or bacteria in their gut) breaks down amygdalin into hydrogen cyanide—a deadly poison.

How much is toxic? Even a small number of seeds can be dangerous. For example:

• A 10-pound dog could be poisoned by just 1–2 apricot seeds.
• Larger dogs (50+ pounds) might tolerate slightly more, but there’s no “safe” threshold. Cyanide affects cells’ ability to use oxygen, leading to organ failure.

Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in dogs (which can appear within 15–60 minutes of ingestion):

• Vomiting or diarrhea (may contain blood)
• Lethargy or weakness
• Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
• Bright red gums (due to oxygen deprivation)
• Seizures or muscle tremors
• Collapse or loss of consciousness
• Death (if left untreated)

If you suspect your dog has eaten apricot seeds and notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately. Cyanide poisoning is a medical emergency—delayed treatment can be fatal.

Sugar Content: A Sneaky Concern

While the seeds themselves aren’t high in sugar, apricot flesh is. If your dog eats the seed and the surrounding fruit, they’re consuming extra sugar, which can lead to:

• Weight gain
• Dental issues
• Pancreatitis (in severe cases, especially in dogs prone to the condition)

Dogs don’t need added sugar in their diet. Even a small amount of apricot flesh (without the seed) should be given sparingly as a treat, not a regular snack.

Choking and Blockage Hazards

Apricot seeds are small, hard, and round—perfect for getting stuck in a dog’s throat, esophagus, or intestines. This is especially true for small breeds or dogs who gulp their food without chewing.

Signs of choking or blockage:

• Gagging, retching, or pawing at the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Vomiting (especially undigested food)
• Lethargy or loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain or bloating

If your dog is choking, perform the Heimlich maneuver for dogs (if trained) and call your vet. Intestinal blockages often require surgery, so don’t delay treatment.

Stomach Upset and Digestive Issues

Even if cyanide poisoning or choking doesn’t occur, apricot seeds are foreign objects that can irritate your dog’s digestive tract. This may lead to:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort

Dogs have sensitive stomachs, and introducing hard, indigestible seeds can throw their gut off balance.

4. Guidelines: How Much (If Any) Apricot Seed Is Safe?

The safest guideline is: Do not feed your dog apricot seeds—at all.

There is no “safe” amount, as cyanide toxicity depends on your dog’s size, the number of seeds eaten, and how thoroughly they were chewed. Even a single seed could be dangerous for a tiny dog.

If your dog accidentally eats apricot seeds:

1. Stay calm and check how many they consumed (if possible).
2. Contact your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) immediately. Provide your dog’s weight, the number of seeds, and the time of ingestion.
3. Follow their guidance—they may recommend inducing vomiting (only if advised) or bringing your dog in for treatment (e.g., activated charcoal to absorb toxins, oxygen therapy, or IV fluids).

5. Healthier Alternatives to Apricot Seeds

Instead of apricot seeds, treat your dog to these safe, nutrient-packed snacks:

Fruits (seedless, in moderation):

• Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants and low in sugar.
• Apple slices (no seeds/core): High in fiber and vitamin C.
• Watermelon (no rind/seeds): Hydrating and full of vitamins A and B6.
• Banana: A great source of potassium and natural sugars (limit to 1–2 slices for small dogs).

Vegetables:

• Carrots: Crunchy, low-calorie, and good for dental health.
• Green beans: High in fiber and vitamins (steamed or raw, no salt).
• Pumpkin (plain, canned): Soothes upset stomachs and adds fiber.

Other Safe Snacks:

• Unsalted, roasted pumpkin seeds: A good source of magnesium and healthy fats (1–2 seeds for small dogs, 5–6 for large breeds).
• Plain yogurt (no xylitol): Probiotics for gut health (choose lactose-free if your dog is sensitive).

6. FAQ: Your Apricot Seed Questions Answered

Q: What if my dog ate an apricot pit (the hard outer shell) but not the seed inside?

A: The pit itself is a choking/blockage risk, but the seed inside is the toxic part. If your dog swallowed the pit whole, it may pass through their digestive tract (monitor for signs of blockage like vomiting or lethargy). If they chewed the pit open and ate the seed, seek vet help immediately—cyanide poisoning is possible.

Q: Is apricot flesh safe for dogs?

A: In small amounts, yes! Remove the seed/pit first, and limit to 1–2 slices per day (depending on size). Too much can cause diarrhea due to sugar or fiber.

Q: Can dogs eat other fruit seeds, like cherry pits or peach pits?

A: No—all Prunus family seeds (cherry, peach, plum, almond) contain amygdalin and pose the same cyanide risk as apricot seeds.

Q: My dog ate a few apricot seeds an hour ago and seems fine. Should I still worry?

A: Yes. Cyanide poisoning symptoms can take 15–60 minutes to appear, but some dogs may show signs later. It’s better to call your vet for guidance—they can monitor your dog or recommend treatment to prevent complications.

Q: Are there any “safe” seeds for dogs?

A: Yes! Pumpkin seeds (unsalted, roasted), sunflower seeds (unsalted), and flaxseeds (ground) are safe in moderation. Always check with your vet first.

7. Conclusion: Prioritize Safety, Always

As pet parents, we want to share the joys of snacking with our dogs—but when it comes to apricot seeds, the risk is simply too high. Cyanide poisoning is a serious threat, and even small amounts can have devastating consequences.

Instead of taking chances, opt for the many safe, delicious alternatives we’ve listed—your dog will love them just as much (if not more!), and you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re keeping them healthy.

Remember: When in doubt about a new food, always consult your vet. They know your dog’s unique health needs and can help you make the best choices.

Here’s to many happy, healthy snack times with your pup—minus the apricot seeds!

References:

• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. [aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants]
• Pet Poison Helpline. Apricot Pit Poisoning in Dogs. [petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/apricot-pit/]
• VCA Animal Hospitals. Cyanide Poisoning in Dogs. [vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cyanide-poisoning-in-dogs]
• American Kennel Club (AKC). Can Dogs Eat Apricots? [akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-apricots/]