- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
If you enjoy fresh, frozen, or canned peaches as a delicious, juicy slice of summer, you might wonder if you can share this fruit with your dog. Experts say dogs can eat peaches in small amounts, as long as you prepare this stone fruit the right way.
“The part that’s safe for dogs to eat is the flesh or juicy part of the fruit,” says David D’Angelo, CPD-accredited pet nutritionist. He adds that you should never let your dog eat the pit, stem, or leaves.
Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about feeding your dog peaches, from health benefits and preparation suggestions to feeding guidelines from experts.
Can Dogs Eat All Parts Of Peaches?
“Dogs can safely eat peaches in moderation,” says Dr Kathryn Dench, MA VetMB and chief scientific advisor at Paw Origins. But she adds it’s crucial to only feed your dog the flesh of the peach and remove the pit first.
That’s because the pit contains amygdalin. When digested, amygdalin breaks down into the poison cyanide.
Peach pits are also dangerous because they can pose a choking hazard or block your dog’s intestines if they swallow the pit whole.
Do Peaches Have Benefits For Dogs?
Adding peaches to your dog’s diet can add some interest and flavour to their regular meals, but peaches also offer some health benefits.
Peaches are packed with vitamin A, which has benefits for eyesight and the immune system, and vitamin C, which is good for the immune system and skin,” D’Angelo says. He adds that peaches also contain fibre, which can help improve your dog’s digestive system. They’re also full of antioxidants, which may help lower the risk of cancer and other diseases.
However, even though peaches do have benefits for a dog’s health, they should only be given in small amounts, D’Angelo emphasises.
Do Peaches Have Any Risks For Dogs?
Giving peaches as an occasional treat is fine for most dogs, but this fruit does pose a few potential risks beyond those noted above.
Feeding a dog too many peaches at once, or giving your dog peaches all the time, may lead to soft stool or diarrhoea, according to Kimberly Gauthier, certified professional canine nutritionist at Keep The Tail Wagging.
Some dogs, including those with diabetes, weight issues, sensitive stomachs, or allergies, should avoid eating peaches.
“It’s always a good idea to ask your vet before giving your dog new foods, especially if they have any health issues,” says D’Angelo. When feeding treats, like peaches, make sure these don’t exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
How To Feed A Dog Peaches
If you want to feed your dog peaches, Dr Dench recommends sticking with fresh or frozen peaches.
“Pet parents should avoid canned peaches due to the added sugar and sweeteners,” Gauthier says.
If you feed your dog frozen peaches, Dr Dench also recommends checking the label and making sure the peaches don’t contain any added sugar or other ingredients.
When feeding your dog peaches, D’Angelo recommends washing them first to remove pesticides. “Take out the pit and cut the peach into small pieces depending on the size of your dog,” he adds. “Small dogs should only have one to two small slices, medium dogs can have two to three slices, and large dogs can have three to four slices.”
Always start with a small piece to see how your dog reacts.
D’Angelo adds that because peaches contain sugar, it’s a good idea to clean your dog’s teeth afterwards to help reduce their risk of tooth decay.
What Other Fruits Can Dogs Eat?
Dog-safe fruits can add some variety to your dog’s diet. Try the following fruits and see which ones your dog likes the best!
| Fruit | Nutrients | Dog-friendly serving suggestions |
| Apples | Antioxidants, fibre, vitamins A and C | Remove core, stem, and seeds.
Slice and spread with peanut butter or make gluten-free, apple pie bites |
| Bananas | Magnesium, potassium, vitamins B6 and C | Peel and mash and mix with peanut butter, add as a food topper, or feed as thin slices |
| Blueberries | Antioxidants, fibre, vitamins C and K | Make dog-safe blueberry muffin treats or scones, or sprinkle berries onto your dog’s food |
| Mangos | Calcium, iron, magnesium, vitamins A and C | Make mango dog chews or blend into a frozen dessert |
| Strawberries | Folic acid, fatty acids, vitamins B6, C, and K | Mix with yoghurt and freeze, blend into a dog-safe slushy, or slice into a food-topper or treat |
