Dangers of Sharing Apricots with Dogs, Healthy Pet Snacks Alternatives

by Zander Panford. Reviewed by Fitpetgo

Updated: Nov 6, 2024

Dangers of Sharing Apricots with Dogs, Healthy Pet Snacks Alternatives

Introduction

Apricots, a sweet and juicy stone fruit, are often sought after by humans as a healthy and tasty snack. However, when it comes to our furry friends, it's essential to exercise caution before introducing new foods, including apricots, into their diet. As responsible pet owners, we must consider the potential risks associated with our pets consuming certain human foods, like apricots.

The purpose of this article is to delve into the specifics of apricots and their suitability for our canine companions. We'll explore the potential health risks, highlighting why it's crucial to be informed about what humans can and cannot share with their pets.

The Case for Concerns

While apricots are often considered a healthy snack option for humans, they contain compounds that can be toxic or cause adverse reactions in animals. Specifically, the pit or kernel of an apricot contains a compound called amygdalin, which can release cyanide, a toxin that can be life-threatening to dogs.

A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that even small amounts of amygdalin-containing foods like apricots could cause severe clinical signs in dogs. This includes symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. In extreme cases, ingestion of cyanide can lead to rapid progression of symptoms and even death.

Moreover, the concentration of amygdalin in apricot pits varies depending on factors such as the type of apricot and the age of the fruit. Some studies suggest that older or ripe apricots may have a higher concentration of amygdalin than younger ones.

If your dog ingests an apricot pit by accident, early recognition of symptoms is crucial to take immediate action. This includes contacting your veterinarian promptly for guidance on treatment options.

The Case for Reassurance

It's essential to note that responsible pet owners are generally aware of the risks associated with giving their dogs human foods like apricots. As a result, most pet owners are cautious when introducing new foods into their pets' diets and exercise proper food safety protocols when storing or handling such substances.

If you're interested in feeding your dog wholesome snacks, there are plenty of healthy alternatives that won't put them at risk:

Frozen berries: These make a delightful snack for canine companions.
Sweet potatoes: Cooked sweet potatoes can provide an impressive boost to their daily fiber intake.
Green beans: A classic low-calorie snack option – green beans help satisfy cravings.

Pet-Specific Factors

Individual factors such as age, breed or genetic predisposition, and existing health conditions also contribute significantly to how pets react to apricots:

Age

For puppies, their rapidly developing systems can be more sensitive during a time of adjustment, introducing a risk when it comes into contact with unhealthy foods like apricot.

Breed or genetic predispositions

Breed sensitivities influence the metabolic pathways in canine system - so while they may eat some healthy substances like apricots; they may remain highly responsive on intake.