Can dogs eat plums?

Caution — flesh fine, stone dangerous

Plum flesh in tiny amounts is safe. The stone is a choking hazard and contains cyanide compounds — always remove.

The full picture

Like peaches and cherries, plums fall into the same category: flesh is fine, stone is a problem. The stone is a choking and blockage hazard, and contains cyanide-releasing amygdalin. Most dogs won't chew a plum stone enough to release meaningful cyanide, but swallowed whole it can block the gut — especially in smaller dogs. Plum flesh is quite high in natural sugar, so keep portions small. Tinned plums in syrup, plum jam, and plum wine are all to be avoided. Damson plums carry the same warnings.

Risks to watch for

  • Stone is choking and cyanide risk
  • Sugar content
  • Diarrhoea from overfeeding

Potential benefits

  • Vitamins A, C, K
  • Fibre

Safe portion size

A few small pieces of flesh occasionally.

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Related foods

Cherries no Peaches caution Apples yes
Written and reviewed by
The Can My Dog Eat editorial team

Every food page is cross-checked against UK veterinary sources including the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the Animal PoisonLine, PDSA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual before publication. We do not accept paid placements from brands. If you spot an inaccuracy, please let us know — we take errors seriously and correct them quickly.

Spot an error? Report it

Checked against UK veterinary guidance — see our editorial standards and source list. If your dog has eaten something and you need urgent advice, call a vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000.

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.