Written by

Tara Farmer

March 24, 2025

Edited by

Jennifer Carlson

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

Safe fruits for dogs

Fruits can provide valuable vitamins, minerals, and fiber for your canine companion. However, not all fruits are safe for dogs. In this guide, we'll cover which fruits dogs can eat safely and which ones should be avoided, and we'll provide details on how you'll need to prep the fruit to ensure your pet's safety before you offer them a piece.

Apples

Dogs can eat apples if you remove the seeds and core. Apples offer vitamin C and fiber and help clean your dog's teeth. The seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be harmful in large quantities, so just make sure to remove them before giving your pup that yummy apple slice.

Bananas

Dogs can eat bananas, but only in moderation. Bananas provide potassium, vitamins, and fiber. While they are low in sodium, bananas are high in sugar. Offer these treats sparingly, especially for dogs with weight concerns.

Berries

Several berries are safe for dogs, in moderation:

• Dogs can eat strawberries. These sweet berries are abundant in vitamin C and fiber while also having an enzyme that can help whiten your dog's teeth. You dog can enjoy them fresh or frozen as long as you remove the stems before serving.

• Dogs can eat blueberries. Blueberries are antioxidant powerhouses that support overall cellular health. These small berries make excellent training treats, and you can serve them fresh or frozen.

• Raspberries are safe for dogs but only in small quantities, as this fruit contains natural xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. In moderation, raspberries are a low-sugar, low-calorie fruit that is high in fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, and may offer anti-inflammatory benefits.

• Blackberries are safe for dogs and offer similar benefits to raspberries. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Be mindful of the sugar content and offer them in moderation.

Coconut

Coconut meat in moderation is safe for dogs. It contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may benefit skin and coat health. Coconut water is also safe in small quantities, but only choose unsweetened versions. Avoid the outer husk due to its rough texture, which could cause digestive upset or choking.

Cranberries

Cranberries can be beneficial for dogs in small amounts. These tart berries contain compounds that may support urinary tract health. You can offer fresh or dried unsweetened cranberries occasionally, but avoid cranberry sauce or sugar-laden juices.

Cucumber

Dogs can eat cucumbers. A safe and refreshing snack for dogs, cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them ideal for hydration. Cucumbers also contain vitamins K, C, and B vitamins, as well as potassium, copper, and magnesium. Ensure you cut them into manageable pieces to prevent choking.

Mango

Mango flesh is safe for dogs, but the pit contains poisonous cyanide and can also cause an intestinal blockage. Peel the fruit and remove the pit before offering mango to your dog. Mangoes are rich in vitamins A, B6, C, and E, as well as potassium and beta-carotene. Still, it's another high-sugar fruit, so moderation is key.

Melons

Melons like cantaloupe and honeydew are safe for dogs. Remove the rind and seeds before serving. Melons are hydrating and contain vitamins A and C. Be mindful of the sugar content, especially for dogs with diabetes or those prone to weight gain.

Dogs can eat watermelon, seedless and without the rind. Watermelon offers loads of hydration and vitamins A, B6, and C, making it a very refreshing summer treat for your pup.

Oranges

Dogs can eat oranges in small quantities. The fruit is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. However, the citric acid in oranges can cause stomach upset in some dogs, so it's best to offer oranges only as an occasional treat. Always remove the peel and seeds before feeding them to your dog.

Papaya

Papaya is safe for dogs and can even aid in digestion. Avoid the seeds, as they are another fruit seed that contains cyanide. This fruit is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as fiber. Papaya also contains papain, an anti-inflammatory enzyme that may be helpful for dogs with arthritis or other pain.

Peaches

Peaches are another safe fruit for dogs when you remove the pit. Like mangoes, peach pits contain cyanide. Peaches offer vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Fresh or frozen peach slices are the best options, as canned peaches may contain added sugars.

Pears

Pears are safe for dogs when properly prepared. Remove the seeds and core, as they contain cyanide like apple seeds. Pears provide vitamin C, fiber, and copper. Slice them into small pieces to prevent choking, and offer fresh rather than canned pears that may contain added sugar.

Pineapple

Dogs can eat pineapple. Pineapple chunks, without the tough core and outer skin, make a sweet, juicy treat rich in vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. The bromelain in pineapple can help dogs absorb proteins better. However, keep in mind this fruit is high in sugar.

Pumpkin

Dogs can eat pumpkin as a safe and healthy treat. Plain pumpkin, not pie filling, is renowned for its digestive benefits. The fiber in pumpkin can help regulate both diarrhea and constipation in dogs. Cooked pumpkin flesh and 100% pumpkin in a can are best.

Do not feed your dog pumpkin pie filling, as it may contain nutmeg and other spices that are toxic to dogs.

What fruits can dogs not eat?

Many human foods are poisonous to dogs, including some fruits. Never give the following foods to your dog under any circumstances due to their highly toxic properties:

• Grapes and raisins

• Star fruit

• Avocado

• Tomato leaves, stems, and green or unripe tomatoes

• Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks

• Chocolate

• Xylitol

• Alcohol

This list is not exhaustive. Check out our more detailed guide about other foods your dog should not eat, and talk to your veterinarian.

FAQs about fruit for dogs

Can fruits replace my dog's regular meals?

No. Fruits should only be a small supplement to your dog's balanced diet, not a replacement for their nutritionally complete dog food.

Are dried fruits a safe treat for dogs?

Dried fruits often contain concentrated sugars and may contain additives, so they’re generally not recommended for dogs. A dog-friendly dried fruit that is unsweetened and contains no other ingredients is not toxic in small quantities, but it's not an optimal dog treat due to fruit's naturally high sugar content.

Can I serve fruit smoothies or purees to my dog?

It’s best to avoid fruit smoothies or purees since they can have added sugars and ingredients that may upset your dog’s stomach.

Introducing a new fruit to your dog's diet

When adding any human foods to your dog's diet, always do so gradually and carefully to avoid an upset puppy tummy.

• Start with small amounts of the new fruit—one tiny bite for small dogs or a bigger bite or two for larger breeds. See how your dog responds.

• Watch for negative reactions such as diarrhea, vomiting, excessive gas, or behavioral changes. If you notice any adverse symptoms, do not offer any more of this new fruit.

• Keep treats and supplements at less than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake to maintain good nutritional balance.

Special dietary considerations

Dogs with specific health conditions may have additional dietary restrictions or requirements, especially when it comes to human foods like fruit. Talk to your vet before making dietary changes if your dog has any of the following issues or risk factors:

• Diabetes

• Kidney disease

• Liver issues

• Pancreatitis

• Food allergies

• Obesity