Can Dogs Eat Peaches? Potential Benefits and Risks

It is safe for dogs to consume fresh peaches in moderation. This sweet treat is not a crucial part of a dog’s diet, but a few slices will not harm their digestive system. The fuzzy fruit can even provide certain health benefits. On the other hand, if a dog eats too much of this summer fruit (or any fruit), its high sugar content can lead to an upset stomach and long-term obesity.

While consuming a moderate amount of peaches will not harm a dog’s health, refrain from feeding them peach pits. They are a choking hazard, containing trace amounts of cyanide compounds called amygdalin. Cyanide poisoning is quite dangerous for dogs and humans alike. Avoid any risk of toxicity by keeping peach pits away from your dog.

Fresh peaches are safe for nearly any dog breed to consume, but canned peaches are another story. Canned peaches have a very high sugar content—notably higher than fresh peaches. Some canned peaches branded as low-calorie contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame, xylitol, or sucralose, which are unsafe for dogs. The preservatives found in some processed peach products can be harmful to animal digestion.

Stick to fresh peaches or frozen peaches, and keep your dog away from fruit juices and syrups. (This same principle applies to other stone fruits like apricots, plums, and pears. Stick to small amounts of fresh fruit and avoid the canned versions.)

Fresh peaches can provide a few health benefits for your pooch when served in moderation. Peaches contain essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, and phosphorus, making them a healthy snack.

Peaches also have high water content—not as high as watermelon or cucumber, but still enough to promote hydration—which can be beneficial on a hot day. Many dogs love frozen fruit in the summertime; here’s how to freeze peaches.

Gnawing on peach pits can wear down your dog’s teeth. Swallowing peach pits can lead to cyanide toxicity—the symptoms of which include difficulty breathing, vomiting, and an overreaction by the immune system.

Plus, when swallowed whole, a peach pit can cause intestinal blockage. Bring your dog to the veterinarian immediately if you suspect they may have ingested a peach pit.

If you have fresh peaches on hand, feel free to share a few slices with Fido. Here are some simple ways to feed peaches to your dog:

• Always wash the fruit before serving. Whether you’re serving a few slices of a fresh peach plucked from a peach tree or a store-bought variety, wash the fruit thoroughly before feeding it to your dog. (This same caution applies to all fresh fruits and vegetables.)
• Throw away the pits. Peach pits are a choking hazard, a source of intestinal blockage, and a culprit in cyanide poisoning. Do not let your dog chew on peach pits.
• Only serve two or three slices. Dogs should only eat peaches in moderation. An entire peach contains too much sugar, leading to an upset stomach and, eventually, obesity. Offer small pieces instead. Here’s how to cut a peach.
• Stick with fresh fruit, never canned. The high sugar content of canned fruit is not suitable for dogs. A moderate amount of fresh fruit is acceptable but avoid canned peaches.

Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

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