Are peach pits and fruit stones safe for dogs?

Many dogs enjoy snacking on fruit almost as much as they enjoy meat and dog treats. However, when it comes to fruits with large stones such as peaches, plums, nectarines, and even avocado, which is technically a fruit, the stones themselves can pose risks for dogs. While dogs might find these stones entertaining to gnaw on, they can be hazardous and should be kept out of your dog's reach.

This article explains the dangers of peach pits and other fruit stones, highlighting why it’s best to discard them safely after eating and choose dog-safe fruits for treats.

1. Toxicity Risks of Stone Fruits for Dogs

Certain stone fruit pits contain amygdalin, a compound that breaks down into cyanide when crushed, which is toxic to dogs. The kernel inside fruit stones like peach pits contains small quantities of cyanide compounds.

If a dog chews and ingests the kernel, they may get exposed to poisonous cyanide. While a small amount from one or two pits is unlikely to cause severe harm, repeated ingestion or larger quantities increase the risk of cyanide poisoning.

Signs of cyanide poisoning include difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, vomiting, and in severe cases, seizures or collapse. It is therefore safest to keep fruit stones away from dogs entirely to eliminate this risk.

Moreover, pits can be mouldy or decaying if found outdoors, potentially exposing dogs to mycotoxins that cause neurological issues like tremors and seizures.

2. Physical Dangers to Your Dog's Mouth and Teeth

Fruit stones are hard and brittle, which makes them risky for dogs to chew. Biting down too hard can crack or break canine teeth, leading to pain and costly veterinary dental treatment.

The rough surface of stone pits can also cut or scratch your dog's tongue, gums and mouth, creating sores that may get infected if untreated.

3. Choking Hazards of Peach Pits and Other Stones

Stone fruits have a size and shape that means they can easily become lodged in a dog’s throat, posing a severe choking risk. Dogs may panic when choking and try to inhale harder, which can cause the pit to become more stuck, potentially causing fatal airway blockage.

Even smaller stones like cherry pits can be a choking hazard for smaller breeds. It’s safest to avoid giving any fruit stones to dogs of any size.

4. Internal Damage from Ingesting Fruit Stones

If a dog crushes and swallows sharp pieces of fruit stone, these shards can damage the internal lining of the digestive tract, causing pain, bleeding or infection not immediately obvious to the owner.

Large fruit stones swallowed whole can also cause dangerous blockages in the stomach or intestines, often requiring emergency surgery to remove.

5. Damage to the Dog’s Throat and Oesophagus

Fruit stones can be rough and abrasive to the delicate lining of your dog’s oesophagus. Repeated chewing or swallowing can cause soreness, discomfort and reluctance to eat.

Long-term exposure can lead to scarring, narrowing the food passage, and increases the risk of aspiration if bits are inhaled into the lungs, potentially leading to pneumonia.

6. How to Safely Give Fruit Treats to Dogs

While fruits like peaches offer health benefits when given in moderation, always remove pits, stems and leaves before feeding. Choose dog-safe fruits such as blueberries, apples (without seeds), and bananas as healthy, risk-free treats.

Always supervise your dog while eating and discourage scavenging behaviour, especially in orchards or gardens with fallen fermenting fruit, which can cause upset stomach, diarrhoea or alcohol poisoning.

7. Responsible Pet Owner Tips

• Dispose of pits and stones safely, keeping them out of your dog's reach.
• Educate family members, especially children, on the dangers of feeding fruit stones to dogs.
• If you suspect your dog has ingested a fruit stone or is showing symptoms like choking, vomiting, or lethargy, contact your vet immediately.
• Choose reputable breeders and responsible rehoming options when getting a dog to ensure overall good health and behaviour.

In summary, while peach pits and fruit stones might be tempting for dogs to chew, the risks they pose from toxicity, choking, physical injury, and internal damage mean they should never be given as treats. By opting for safe fruits and practising cautious feeding habits, you can keep your dog healthy and happy all year round.