What Fruits Shouldn't You Give Dogs?

Many pet owners are in the habit of sharing table scraps and snacks with their canine friends. What some dog owners don't realize is that there are a number of fruits or parts of fruits that can be toxic if ingested by dogs that can lead to serious health problems. Pet owners need to know what these fruits are and ways to prevent their dog from eating the harmful fruits.

  1. Grapes and Raisins

    • Grapes and raisins can cause kidney damage to dogs.

      Any variety of grape or raisin can cause kidney failure in dogs even though the specific toxin has not been identified through testing. According to the ASPCA there are many unknowns about grapes or raisins and their toxicity to dogs, including how much would need to be eaten in order to cause a problem.

    Fruits with Seeds or Pits

    • The seeds and pits of many fruits can be toxic to canines.

      Dogs cannot differentiate between fruit and seeds or core so if given apples, cherries, peaches or plums they may consume both the fruit and the toxic parts of the fruit. Apple seeds, peach pits, plum seeds and cherry seeds contain a cyanide compound. If ingested, this type of poisoning can cause the dog to hyperventilate and have dilated pupils. Eating the seeds or pits of these fruits could lead to shock.

    Avocados

    • Persin, found in avocados, is toxic to dogs.

      The toxin in avocados that affects dogs is called persin. Persin is found in all parts of the avocado including the fruit, seed, leaves, and bark. Ingestion of persin can lead to cardiovascular problems, difficulty breathing, diarrhea, vomiting and fluid around the heart and abdomen. Avocados and foods containing them, such as guacamole, should not be fed to dogs.

    Prevention

    • Keeping garbage where your dog can't get to it can reduce his chances of eating poisonous fruit.

      Pet owners who do not want their dog to ingest harmful fruits should consider not having toxic items in the home. If that is not possible, avoid giving the dog table scraps of pieces of human food. Store these food items in an area out of the dog's reach, such as inside the refrigerator or on a counter where even taller dogs can't get to them. When you throw these items away make sure the garbage container is secure enough that the dog can't open it to get to food items.