Can Dogs Eat Plums? Here's Why We Say Pass.

Photo by Vladimir Gladkov on Unsplash

They’re juicy, sweet, and look like nature’s candy — but when it comes to plums and your pup? This fruit is more dangerous than delicious.

Let’s get one thing straight: dogs should not eat plums. While the flesh technically isn’t toxic, the risks far outweigh the rewards. Between the pit, the skin, and the potential toxicity, it’s a hard “no thanks” from us.

Here’s why plums can be a serious problem — and what to do if your dog snuck one when you weren’t looking.

1. The Pit Is a Problem

Plum pits aren’t just a choking hazard — they can cause intestinal blockages, especially in small dogs. Worse? The pit contains amygdalin, which breaks down into cyanide in the body. Yes, cyanide.

Even a small amount can be toxic depending on your dog’s size, health, and how much was ingested.

2. Toxicity Isn’t Just in the Pit

The leaves, stems, and seeds of plums are also toxic to dogs. They contain compounds that release cyanide when chewed or digested. That means a curious dog nibbling on a whole plum from the ground is taking a dangerous bite.

3. Even the Fruit Can Be Risky

While the flesh of a ripe plum isn’t poisonous, it’s still:

– High in sugar (bad for digestion + weight)

– A possible trigger for upset stomachs

– A slippery slope to bigger problems if the dog develops a taste for dropped fruit

Dogs with sensitive stomachs or conditions like diabetes should avoid it altogether.

4. What to Do if Your Dog Eats a Plum

First: don’t panic. Then:

✅ Figure out what they ate. Was it just the fruit? Or did they get the pit too?

📞 Call your vet or animal poison control. Time matters, especially if they ingested a pit, leaf, or stem.

🧠 Watch for symptoms of poisoning or obstruction, like:

1. Vomiting

2. Difficulty breathing

3. Lethargy

4. Abdominal pain

5. Loss of appetite

If you notice anything off — get help, fast.

Final Tips

1. Stick to dog-safe fruits like blueberries, apples (no seeds), or watermelon (no rind).

2. Keep stone fruits out of reach, especially in summer months when fruit trees or dropped produce are more common.

3. And remember: curiosity + sugar cravings don’t mix well when you’ve got four legs and no self-control.

Want to know which fruits are actually safe? Check out more nutrition deep dives in our Bark Times.