Why
Persin can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs, and the high fat can trigger pancreatitis. The pit, skin and leaves are the most dangerous parts.
What to do instead
- Do not feed avocado or guacamole (which often has onion and garlic too).
Safer swaps from the same group: apples, blueberries, pears, watermelon.
Watch out for
- The pit, skin and leaves are the most toxic parts.
- Call your vet if your dog eats avocado, especially the pit.
If your dog ate avocado
- Note how much your dog ate and when, and keep any packaging.
- Call your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Other fruit: quick answers
| Food | Verdict | Short answer |
|---|---|---|
| Cherries | Avoid | No. Cherry pits, stems and leaves contain cyanide. |
| Bananas | Small amounts | Yes, as an occasional treat. Bananas are low in calories but high in sugar. |
| Cantaloupe | Small amounts | Yes, in moderation. It is low in calories but high in sugar. |
| Coconut | Small amounts | Yes, in small amounts. Keep the hairy husk away. |
| Cranberries | Small amounts | Yes, a few plain cranberries. Too many can upset the stomach. |
| Mango | Small amounts | Yes, peeled flesh in small amounts. Remove the hard pit. |
| Oranges | Small amounts | Yes, a segment or two of the flesh, without peel or seeds. |
| Peaches | Small amounts | Yes, fresh flesh only. The pit contains cyanide. |
Rules for any new food
- Plain is the rule: no salt, butter, oil, onion, garlic, sugar or sweeteners. Most of the danger in human food comes from what is added to it.
- Keep all treats under 10% of your dog's daily calories (WSAVA). The rest should come from a complete dog food.
- Check labels for xylitol, raisins, chocolate and macadamia nuts, which turn up in baked goods, snacks and spreads.
- If your dog has a health condition, such as diabetes, pancreatitis or kidney disease, ask your vet before adding any new food.
Frequently asked questions
Is avocado safe for dogs?
No. Avocado contains persin and is very high in fat.
What should I do if my dog ate avocado?
Most dogs are fine after a small amount, but watch for vomiting, diarrhea or unusual behavior and call your vet if anything worries you.
Sources
- American Kennel Club, "Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can and Can't Eat" (updated Aug 4, 2026)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control, "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"
Checked October 17, 2026. We are a reference, not a vet: if in doubt, call yours. How we check.