Is it safe if your dog eats windfall fruit? Risks explained

If your dog is one to scavenge and eat just about anything, windfall fruit might catch their attention more than you expect. But is it safe for dogs to eat fruit that has dropped to the ground? While many dogs may appear fine after nibbling on windfall fruit, there are several important health risks to be aware of.

In this article, we'll explore that question in depth, outlining why windfall fruit can be dangerous to your dog and what you should do if they have eaten some.

What is windfall fruit?

Windfall fruit is simply fruit that falls from a tree naturally, often due to ripening, weather conditions such as strong winds, or decay. You might find it on the ground beneath a tree or in an orchard. This fruit is typically overripe and beginning to decompose.

Should I let my dog eat windfall fruit?

As appealing as it may seem, allowing dogs to eat windfall fruit is not advisable. Many dogs will eagerly consume nearly anything they find, and the sweeter smell and taste of fermenting fruit can make it even more tempting. However, eating windfall fruit can expose dogs to several serious dangers.

Key dangers of dogs eating windfall fruit

1. Fermentation and alcohol poisoning

When fruit falls and starts to break down, natural sugars ferment and produce alcohol. This fermenting process can make the fruit smell sweet and alluring to dogs. Unfortunately, alcohol is highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause symptoms of alcohol poisoning including vomiting, diarrhoea, disorientation, lethargy, tremors, and in severe situations, seizures or coma.

If you suspect your dog has eaten fermenting fruit, immediate veterinary attention is essential.

2. Insect stings, especially wasps

The sweet smell of fermenting fruit attracts insects like wasps. These wasps may become aggressive and sting your dog if disturbed, either when your dog tries to catch them or eats fruit with wasps on it.

3. Mould and harmful toxins

Windfall fruit quickly develops mould and can be colonised with bacteria or fungi, some of which produce toxins harmful to dogs. Eating mouldy fruit can cause digestive upset and in some cases, more serious toxic reactions.

4. Bugs and maggots

Bugs and maggots often infest fallen fruit and are also undesirable for dogs to consume. They can cause stomach discomfort or illness.

5. Dangerous fruit stones and seeds

Many fruits, such as plums, cherries, peaches, and apples contain stones or seeds that are hazardous for dogs. These can cause dental damage, choking, or even blockages in the digestive system. Some pits contain cyanide compounds which are poisonous if crushed or chewed.

Understanding the risks of fruit stones

Stone fruit pits contain amygdalin, which releases cyanide when broken down. Ingesting these pits can cause difficulty breathing, lethargy, and severe poisoning symptoms — a veterinary emergency. Hard stones also pose a choking and obstruction risk.

6. Digestive upsets from too much fruit

While dogs in the wild eat some fruit, their digestive systems are not designed for large quantities, particularly overly ripe or fermenting fruit. Eating windfall fruit in significant amounts can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhoea, which is unpleasant and possibly painful for your dog.

What to do if your dog eats windfall fruit

If your dog has eaten windfall fruit, act promptly. Remove any remaining fruit and watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, or unusual behaviour.

Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet. Provide fresh water but do not force fluids if your dog is vomiting.

Contact your vet immediately if your dog shows any signs of poisoning, distress, or if you know they ate fermenting fruit. Share details about the type and amount consumed and any symptoms observed. Early veterinary advice can be lifesaving.

Summary

Windfall fruit may look harmless, but it can present multiple hazards for dogs including alcohol from fermentation, insect stings, bacterial and mould toxins, bugs, harmful fruit stones, and digestive upsets.

Responsible dog owners should prevent their pets from eating fruit off the ground and seek prompt veterinary advice if accidental ingestion occurs.