If you love dried apricots and have a dog, you might wonder: Can dogs eat dried apricots? The short answer is yes, but only in very small amounts, and with big safety rules. Too much can upset your dog’s tummy or cause bigger problems. This guide explains everything in simple words so anyone can understand. We’ll cover the good parts, the risks, safe portions, better choices, and what to do if your dog eats too many.
Dried apricots (also called apricot dry fruit) are a sweet, chewy snack. They are full of fiber, potassium, and vitamins that help humans stay healthy. But dogs are different. Their bodies don’t need fruit the same way, and some parts of apricots are dangerous for them.
- Why Do Dog Owners Ask "Can Dogs Have Dried Apricots"?
- The Good Side: Possible Benefits in Tiny Amounts:
- The Risks: Why Most Vets Say "Be Careful or Skip":
- Safe Portion Sizes for Dogs:
- Signs Your Dog Ate Too Many Dried Apricots:
- Better Treat Choices for Dogs:
- What Vets and Experts Say:
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Advice for Dog Owners:
Why Do Dog Owners Ask “Can Dogs Have Dried Apricots”?
Many dogs beg when they see their owners eating snacks. Dried apricots smell sweet and look like fun treats. Plus, dog owners want to share healthy foods. Searches for “can dogs eat dried apricots” are popular because people care about giving safe treats.
The truth: Plain dried apricots are not toxic like chocolate or grapes, but they are not the best choice either. Let’s look closer.
The Good Side: Possible Benefits in Tiny Amounts:
In very small pieces, plain dried apricots can give dogs a little nutrition:
- Fiber: Helps digestion and can prevent constipation.
- Potassium: Good for muscles and the heart.
- Vitamin A: Supports eyes and skin.
- Natural sweetness: Can make a boring diet more exciting.
These benefits are small because dogs get most of their nutrition from their dog food. You would need to give a lot for big benefits — and that’s where problems start.
The Risks: Why Most Vets Say “Be Careful or Skip”:
Dried apricots have risks that make them not worth it for most dogs.
1. High Sugar Content
Drying removes water, so the sugar becomes more concentrated. One small handful for humans is like a sugar bomb for dogs. Too much sugar can cause:
- Upset stomach.
- Diarrhea.
- Gas and bloating.
- Weight gain over time.
- Higher chance of diabetes.
2. The Dangerous Pit:
Apricot pits (seeds) contain cyanide — a poison. Even dried apricots sold in stores are pitted, but sometimes a piece is missed. Never give whole apricots or let dogs near fresh ones with pits.
3. Sulfites in Bright Orange Ones:
Many bright orange dried apricots have sulfites added to keep the color pretty. The Element Sulfites can cause allergic reactions in some dogs, such as:
- Breathing problems
- Itchy skin
- Vomiting
Choose unsulfured (darker brown) if you ever share.
4. Choking and Sticky Texture:
Dried apricots are chewy and sticky. Large pieces of dried apricots can get stuck in the throat or between the teeth. Small dogs have a higher risk.
5. Too Much Fiber:
Fiber is good in small amounts, but too much at once causes loose poop or tummy pain.
Safe Portion Sizes for Dogs:
If you decide to give a tiny taste (and your vet says okay), follow these rules:
| Dog Size | Safe Amount (Max) | How Often |
| Small dogs (under 20 lbs) | ¼ to ½ of one apricot half | Once a week or less |
| Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) | ½ to 1 apricot half | Once or twice a week |
| Large dogs (over 50 lbs) | 1 to 2 apricot halves | Once or twice a week |
Always:
- Cut into tiny pieces or mash.
- Use plain, unsulfured, no-added-sugar kind.
- Watch for 24 hours after the first try.
Puppies, old dogs, or dogs with health issues should skip them.
Signs Your Dog Ate Too Many Dried Apricots:
Watch for these problems:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lots of gas or bloating
- Tired or weak
- Trouble breathing (rare, from sulfites)
If you see any, call your vet right away. For pit poisoning (very rare with store-bought), symptoms include fast breathing, red gums, and shaking — emergency vet needed.
Better Treat Choices for Dogs:
There are safer fruits that dogs love more:
- Apple slices (no seeds/core)
- Blueberries (full of antioxidants)
- Banana pieces (small amounts)
- Carrot sticks (crunchy and low-calorie)
- Watermelon (no rind/seeds, hydrating)
Commercial dog treats made for dogs are safest — they have the right nutritional balance.
What Vets and Experts Say:
Most veterinarians and sites like ASPCA, and PetMD say:
- Dried fruits are not recommended regularly.
- Fresh fruit in tiny amounts is usually safer.
- Always ask your vet for your dog’s needs.
One vet quote: “An occasional tiny piece won’t hurt most dogs, but there are better treats with less risk.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are dried apricots toxic to dogs?
No, plain dried apricots are not toxic like raisins or chocolate. But pits are dangerous, and too much causes tummy issues.
Can puppies eat dried apricots?
No — puppies have sensitive stomachs. Stick to puppy food and safe puppy treats.
What if my dog stole a whole bag?
Call your vet or pet poison hotline right away. They might suggest watching the dog or bringing it in.
Are organic dried apricots safer?
Yes — less chance of sulfites or pesticides, but still high sugar.
Can dogs eat fresh apricots?
Only the flesh in tiny amounts, never the pit, stem, or leaves (those have cyanide).
Advice for Dog Owners:
Can dogs have dried apricots? Yes, a very small plain piece sometimes is usually okay for healthy adult dogs. But the risks (sugar, choking, pits) make them not the best choice.
Your dog will be happier and healthier with dog-safe treats. Save the dried apricots for yourself and enjoy the benefits of apricot dry fruit as a human snack!
If you’re ever unsure, ask your vet — they know your dog best. Happy and safe treating!