✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last reviewed: 2026-07

Can dogs eat apricots?

Caution icon
Caution — flesh fine, stone dangerous

Apricot flesh is safe in small amounts. The stone contains cyanide compounds and is a choking hazard.

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The full picture

Apricots share the stone-fruit family warning: flesh is safe, stone is dangerous. The stone contains amygdalin, a cyanide-releasing compound, and is the right size to cause intestinal blockage. Always pit apricots before offering. Dried apricots are worse — more concentrated sugar and often sulphur preservatives that some dogs react to. Apricot jam usually contains too much sugar to be a good share.

If your dog ate more than a safe amount

Apricot flesh is safe in small amounts. The stone, leaves, and stem contain cyanogenic glycosides — call your vet immediately if your dog has chewed the stone.

Risks to watch for

  • Stone: cyanide + blockage + choking
  • Sugar content
  • Sulphur preservatives in dried

Potential benefits

  • Vitamin A, beta-carotene
  • Fibre
  • Potassium

Safe portion size

A couple of chunks of flesh occasionally.

While you're checking what your dog can safely eat, make sure their flea and worm protection is up to date too.

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Common questions

Is apricots safe for dogs?
Apricot flesh is safe in small amounts. The stone contains cyanide compounds and is a choking hazard.
How much apricots can a dog eat?
A couple of chunks of flesh occasionally.
What are the risks of apricots for dogs?
Stone: cyanide + blockage + choking; Sugar content; Sulphur preservatives in dried.
What should I do if my dog eats too much apricots?
Apricot flesh is safe in small amounts. The stone, leaves, and stem contain cyanogenic glycosides — call your vet immediately if your dog has chewed the stone.
Important: This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, and individual factors (age, breed, health conditions, medications) can change what's safe. If in doubt, always contact your vet — or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 in the UK.