Can Dogs Eat Peaches? Sweet Treat or Total Pitfall?

  Photo by Sara Cervera on Unsplash

Short answer: Yes, in moderation. But there are a few very important things to keep in mind before tossing your dog a slice from your summer fruit bowl.

Peaches can be:

1. Hydrating
2. High in vitamin A and fiber
3. Low in calories (if you skip the canned sugar-laden ones)

But they also come with a few very real dangers. Most notably: the pit (more on that in a second).

Let’s start with the good stuff.

1. Benefits of Peaches for Dogs

In small, properly prepared amounts, peaches can:

1. Support digestion thanks to fiber
2. Boost skin and coat health with vitamin A
3. Act as a juicy, hydrating treat on hot days

They’re also a fun enrichment option when frozen and served in moderation.

2. The Pit Problem (And It’s a Big One)

Here’s the deal:

Peach pits contain cyanide compounds, which can be toxic if chewed or swallowed. They also pose serious choking hazards and can block your dog’s intestines.

If your dog gets into a whole peach:

1. Look for signs of distress (pacing, gagging, vomiting)
2. Call your vet immediately if the pit was eaten

Just like with plums, this is one of those hard no ingredients.

3. Peel or No Peel?

Peel = optional but recommended to remove.

While peach skin isn’t toxic, it can be hard for some dogs to digest. It may cause mild stomach upset, especially in smaller or more sensitive pups.

Wash thoroughly if you decide to leave the skin on—many store-bought peaches are treated with pesticides.

4. Canned Peaches = Absolutely Not

Nope. No. Never.

Canned peaches are usually packed in sugary syrup that can upset your dog’s stomach or contribute to weight gain and diabetes over time.

Stick to fresh or frozen peaches only, and always remove the pit.

5. How Much Peach Can My Dog Eat?

Moderation is key. Try this serving guide:

1. Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 small slices
2. Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-4 slices
3. Large dogs (50+ lbs): 1/2 peach, sliced and de-pitted

Introduce slowly and watch for signs of GI distress.

6. Peach-Inspired Dog Treat Ideas

Want to get creative?

1. Frozen Peach Bites: Blend peach with a spoonful of plain yogurt, freeze in silicone mold
2. Peach & PB Kong Filler: Mash peach with a bit of Doolce + Diego peanut butter and stuff in a Kong
3. Fruit Medley: Combine small pieces of peach, blueberries, and banana for a light snack

7. Final Tips

1. Always remove the pit and stem
2. Stick to fresh, unsweetened fruit
3. Wash thoroughly or peel to reduce pesticide exposure

We get it. Sharing snacks with your dog is part of the joy of being a pet parent. But some fruits require a little more prep and a lot more caution.

Peaches are one of those fruits. Serve them wisely.