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Nectarines for Dogs: A Risk - Reward Analysis

Mar 14,2025 | puaintapets

Nectarines are juicy, sweet, and packed with vitamins, making them a favorite summer treat. But can dogs eat nectarines? The answer is yes, but with caution.

While nectarines offer some health benefits, they also pose risks if not prepared properly. In this guide, we’ll explore whether nectarines are safe for dogs, their health benefits, potential risks, and the best ways to serve them.

Nectarines for Dogs

What Are Nectarines?

Nectarines are a type of stone fruit related to peaches. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and fiber, making them a nutritious snack for humans. But how do they affect dogs?

Can Dogs Digest Nectarines?

Dogs have a different digestive system compared to humans, and while they can digest some fruits, nectarines pose some challenges.

1. Digestive System Differences

  • Dogs are primarily carnivores, but their digestive systems have adapted to some extent to handle plant - based foods. However, their digestive tracts are shorter than those of herbivores, which means they may not be as efficient at breaking down complex plant materials.
  • Nectarines contain sugars, fiber, and other compounds. The sugars in nectarines can be a problem for some dogs, especially those with sensitive stomachs. The fiber content, while beneficial for humans in promoting digestion, may be difficult for dogs to process in large amounts.

2. Potential Digestive Issues

  • Even if a dog manages to chew and swallow nectarine flesh without the pit, it may experience digestive upset. This can manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. The acids in nectarines can also irritate a dog's stomach lining, further contributing to digestive problems.
  • In addition, the skin of the nectarine is not easily digestible for dogs. It can be tough and may cause blockages or irritation in the digestive tract if not properly broken down.

3.Skin Allergy Symptoms

  • Itching and Rash: An allergic reaction may cause your dog's skin to itch, which manifests as frequent scratching, licking or rubbing against the body. Red spots, rashes or hives may appear on the skin.
  • Swelling: Swelling may occur around the face, eyes, lips or ears.

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So, in general, while dogs may be able to partially digest small amounts of nectarine flesh, it is not a food that is easily or fully digested by them, and there are significant risks associated with it, such as those related to the pit and potential digestive discomfort.

Related: Causes and Prevention of Vomiting and Diarrhea in Dogs

Nectarines for Dog

Health Benefits of Nectarines for Dogs

Nectarines can offer several health benefits to dogs when given in moderation. Here are some of the potential benefits:

Vitamins and Minerals

  • Vitamin A: Important for eye health, skin health, and a shiny coat.
  • Vitamin C: Acts as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation and helping with cell repair, and also supports the immune system.
  • Potassium: Helps regulate fluid balance, muscle function, and nerves.
  • Magnesium: Aids in bone health and enzyme function.

Digestive Health

  • Dietary Fiber: Promotes healthy digestion and can aid in preventing constipation.

Antioxidants and Phytochemicals

  • Nectarines contain phytochemicals that have both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from damage.

Hydration

  • Nectarines have a high water content, which can help keep dogs hydrated, especially during hot weather.

It's important to note that while nectarines can be a healthy occasional treat for dogs, they should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content. The pits should always be removed to prevent choking or intestinal blockage, and any spoiled nectarines should be discarded. As with any new food, it's best to consult with a veterinarian before introducing nectarines into your dog's diet.

What to Do if Dog Eats Nectarines and Gets Indigestion

If your dog eats nectarines and gets indigestion, here are some steps you can take:

Monitor Symptoms

  • Vomiting: If your dog vomits once or twice and then seems fine, it may be their body's way of getting rid of something that didn't agree with them. However, if vomiting persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it's a cause for concern.
  • Diarrhea: Mild diarrhea may resolve on its own, but if it's severe, watery, or contains blood, it could indicate a more serious problem.
  • Lethargy: If your dog is unusually tired or lacks energy, it could be a sign of dehydration or an underlying health issue.
  • Abdominal Pain: Signs of abdominal pain in dogs include whining, restlessness, or a hunched posture.

Home Remedies

  • Withhold Food: Temporarily stop feeding your dog for a few hours to give their digestive system a chance to rest.
  • Offer Water: Provide small amounts of water frequently to prevent dehydration, but don't let them drink too much at once, as it could worsen vomiting.
  • Probiotics for pets: It is recommended to choose pet-specific probiotic products that have been specially developed and tested to better suit your dog's gastrointestinal needs.
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  • Plain Rice and Boiled Chicken: Once your dog has not vomited for a few hours, you can offer a small amount of plain cooked rice and boiled chicken in small, frequent meals.

How to Safely Feed Nectarines to Your Dog

1. Removing the Pit & Skin

Always remove the pit before feeding nectarines to your dog.
✔ The skin is generally safe but can be hard to digest, so peeling is recommended for sensitive dogs.

2. Serving Size & Frequency

🍑 Small dogs: 1-2 small slices
🍑 Medium dogs: 2-3 slices
🍑 Large dogs: 3-5 slices

Feed nectarines as an occasional treat (no more than a few times per week).

3. Best Ways to Serve Nectarines

Fresh slices – Cut into small, bite-sized pieces
Mashed or pureed – Easy to digest for older dogs
Frozen treats – Great for summer cooling snacks

Nectarines for Dogs

When to See a Vet

  • Persistent Symptoms

If vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy persists for more than 24 hours, or if your dog's condition worsens, it's time to see a vet.

  • Signs of Obstruction

If you suspect your dog has swallowed a nectarine pit or other foreign object and they show signs of abdominal pain, vomiting, or decreased appetite, seek veterinary attention immediately.

  • Blood in Vomit or Stool

The presence of blood is a serious sign that requires immediate veterinary care.

  • Dehydration

If your dog shows signs of dehydration, such as dry gums, sunken eyes, or lethargy, it's important to see a vet right away.

FAQs

Can dogs eat nectarine skin?

The skin of a nectarine is not recommended for dogs. It can be difficult for them to digest and may also carry pesticides or other contaminants.

How much nectarine can a dog safely eat?

Ideally, dogs should not eat nectarines at all. However, if a very small amount of flesh (less than a few small pieces) is accidentally ingested, it may not cause immediate harm. But always monitor your dog closely.

What if my dog ate a nectarine pip?

If your dog ate a nectarine pip, it's important to monitor them closely. In most cases, the pip will pass through their digestive system without causing harm. However, if your dog shows signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, contact your vet immediately. The pip could potentially cause an obstruction or other complications. To prevent future incidents, keep all fruits and their parts out of your dog's reach.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while nectarines may seem like a harmless and healthy treat, they can pose several risks to dogs. It's always better to err on the side of caution and keep nectarines and other potentially harmful foods away from our canine companions. If in doubt about any food item, consult your veterinarian for the best advice on your dog's diet.

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