Seeds & Pits
Can dogs eat cherry pits and apple seeds?
If your dog ate this, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
Cherry pits and apple seeds contain a compound that releases cyanide when chewed or crushed, though a whole pit swallowed intact is far less dangerous than one that has been cracked open.
Toxic principle: amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside that releases hydrogen cyanide when the seed coat is broken
Watch for
- rapid breathing
- bright red gums
- dilated pupils
- difficulty breathing
- vomiting
- seizures
- collapse
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-12
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat cherry pits and apple seeds?
Cherry pits and apple seeds contain a compound that releases cyanide when chewed or crushed, though a whole pit swallowed intact is far less dangerous than one that has been cracked open.
What should I do if my dog ate cherry pits and apple seeds?
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
What symptoms should I watch for with cherry pits and apple seeds and dogs?
rapid breathing, bright red gums, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, vomiting, seizures, collapse. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
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