5 Summer Fruits Your Dog Mustn't Eat

When the weather heats up, it’s tempting to share juicy summer fruit with your dog during backyard barbecues or picnic days. 

And while some fruits are perfectly safe in moderation, others can cause anything from stomach upset to serious health emergencies. 

This isn’t an exhaustive list, but these five summer fruits are ones pet parents should avoid giving their dogs altogether.

2. Cherries

The flesh of a cherry isn’t the biggest concern — it’s the pit, stem, and leaves that pose serious risks. These parts contain cyanogenic compounds, which can release cyanide when chewed or digested.

Cherry pits are also a choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages, especially in smaller dogs. If you want to offer your pup a fruity treat, there are much safer options than tossing them a cherry from your snack bowl.

3. Avocados

Avocados are a summer brunch favorite, but they’re not ideal for dogs. The fruit contains persin, a toxin that can upset a dog’s stomach, especially in large quantities.

More importantly, the large pit can easily become a choking hazard.

Avocados are also high in fat, which may trigger pancreatitis in sensitive dogs. It’s best to keep guacamole and avocado slices well out of paw’s reach.

4. Tomatoes

Unripe tomatoes and tomato plants contain solanine, which can be toxic to dogs. Curious pups that wander into backyard gardens are most at risk.

Eating large amounts of green tomatoes or the plant itself can cause drooling, digestive upset, weakness, and confusion. 

5. Citrus Fruits

Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits aren’t highly toxic, but they can still cause problems for dogs. The acidic flesh may irritate the stomach and lead to vomiting or diarrhea, while the peels and seeds can be harder to digest.

Lemons and limes are especially problematic because they contain compounds that may affect the nervous system in larger amounts.