Skip it

Can dogs eat avocado?

Best to skip it: a little avocado flesh isn't poisonous to dogs, but it's fatty, the pit can cause a dangerous blockage, and guacamole often contains onion and garlic.

Raw, cooked and other forms of avocado

  • A littlePlain flesh Not considered poisonous, but it's high in fat and can upset the stomach or trigger pancreatitis, even in small amounts in some dogs.
  • Skip itPit (seed) Doesn't digest and can lodge in the gut. A swallowed pit is an emergency and may need surgery.
  • Skip itSkin, leaves and bark This is where persin is concentrated. Dogs are less sensitive than birds or horses, but it can still cause stomach upset.
  • ToxicGuacamole Often made with onion and garlic, which are poisonous to dogs, plus salt, lime and lots of fat.

Why dogs should skip avocado

Persin, a natural antifungal compound concentrated in the leaves, skin and bark. Dogs are far less sensitive to it than birds, rabbits, horses and goats, so for dogs the bigger risks are the fat (pancreatitis), the pit (blockage), and onion and garlic in guacamole.

Signs to watch for after she eats avocado

Vomiting, diarrhea and belly discomfort over the next 24 to 48 hours. After a pit: repeated vomiting or trying to vomit, not eating, straining to poop, a swollen or painful belly, or unusual tiredness.

What to do if your dog ate too much avocado

If she licked or ate a little plain flesh, watch her and call your vet if you see vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy. If she swallowed a pit or is choking, go to an emergency vet now, without waiting for signs. If she ate guacamole, or skin or leaves, call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 right away. Don't try to make her vomit at home.

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