Can a Dog Eat Damsons? Everything You Need to Know

Published: 6 Feb 2025

Hello!

Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and sometimes, that curiosity extends to the food we eat. If you’ve ever enjoyed a damson plum and your dog has shown interest, you’ve probably wondered, “Can dogs eat damsons?” The answer is ‘No’.

With over four years of experience in canine nutrition, I’ll explain why damsons can be dangerous and help you make informed decisions about your pet’s diet.

Table of Content

Are Damsons Safe for Dogs?
1. Benefits of Feeding Damsons:
2. Risks of Feeding Damsons:
What Happens if a Dog Eats a Damson?
Can Puppies Eat Damsons?
Safer Alternatives to Damsons
Conclusion:
FAQs

Are Damsons Safe for Dogs?

As a veterinarian, I strongly advise that dogs should not eat damsons. While the flesh of a ripe damson in tiny amounts is safe for dogs, the overall risk associated with the pits, skin, and potential for overeating makes them a poor choice for a dog treat.

Remember!

When in doubt, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian. They are your best resource for personalized advice regarding your dog’s diet and health

Benefits of Feeding Damsons:

Damsons do offer some nutritional benefits in very small amounts, which include:

Vitamins and Minerals: Damsons contain vitamins A, C, and E, which have antioxidant properties and contribute to boosting immunity.
Digestive Health: The fibre content can support digestion and help with regular bowel movements.
Hydration: With their high water content, damsons can help keep your dog hydrated, especially during hot weather or when they’re reluctant to drink enough water.
Reduced Stress: The antioxidants in damsons can help reduce oxidative stress in your dog’s body over time, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

However, it’s important to note that these benefits come in relatively small amounts, and your dog will not gain much from eating damsons.

Risks of Feeding Damsons:

The potential risks far outweigh any minimal nutritional benefit that damsons provide. Here’s a breakdown of the dangers you need to be aware of when feeding your dog damsons:

The Pit (Stone): Damson pits contain cyanide, a toxic compound that can be harmful to dogs even in small amounts. If the pit is chewed, it could release this toxin, leading to poisoning. The pit also poses a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs, and can cause an intestinal blockage if swallowed, which may require surgery to fix.
The Skin: Damson skins are tough and fibrous, and dogs’ digestive systems are not designed to break down such material effectively. the skin can pass through the digestive tract largely undigested, causing various troubles.
High Sugar and Acidic Content: Damsons are naturally high in sugar, and when unripe, they are acidic. These properties can cause gastrointestinal upset, especially if consumed in larger quantities.

What Happens if a Dog Eats a Damson?

If a dog eats a damson, the risks depend on which part of the fruit was consumed.

1. Digestive Problems:

A small amount of ripe damson flesh might not cause any noticeable problems. But if a dog eats unripe Damson or Damson’s skin, your dog will experience digestive upset, including.

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Decreased appetite

2. Cyanide Poisoning:

If a dog eats the pit or chews on it, it can cause cyanide poisoning, and symptoms can include:

Rapid breathing
Bright red gums
Weakness
Incoordination (stumbling, wobbling)
Dilated pupils
Seizures
In severe cases, death

What to Do If a Dog Eat Damsons:

If you know or suspect your dog has eaten a damson, especially if it’s ingested in the pit, contact your veterinarian immediately or the Animal Poison Control Centre. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. The sooner you get veterinary advice, the better the chances of a good outcome.

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Do not attempt to treat your dog at home without veterinary guidance. Home remedies can sometimes make things worse. Prompt, professional veterinary care is essential.

Can Puppies Eat Damsons?

No, puppies should absolutely not eat damsons.

Puppies are much more sensitive to toxins than adult dogs due to their smaller size and developing organs. The pit is a choking hazard, and even a small amount of cyanide from the pit can have a devastating effect. Even the fruit’s flesh, though less toxic, can cause stomach upset or diarrhoea in puppies.

So, keep damsons (and any fruit with pits or skins that could be problematic) far away from your puppy. Focus on feeding them high-quality puppy food and offering safe, puppy-friendly treats in moderation.

Safer Alternatives to Damsons

If you want to offer your dog a fruity treat, try these safe options instead:

Blueberries – Rich in antioxidants and low in sugar.
Apples (without seeds) – High in fiber and vitamins.
Bananas – Easy to digest and packed with potassium.
Strawberry – Good for dental health
Pumpkin – Great for digestion and gut health.

Conclusion:

So, can dogs eat damsons? The answer is no. The risks associated with damsons, particularly the cyanide-containing pit, the indigestible skin, and the potential for digestive upset from overconsumption, far surpass any minimal nutritional benefits.

There are simply too many safer and more nutritious fruit and vegetable options available for your canine companion. Prioritize your dog’s health and well-being by avoiding damsons altogether. Choose dog-friendly treats that you can feel confident are safe and beneficial, ensuring a happy and healthy life for your furry friend.

Have you ever had a scare with your dog eating something they shouldn’t? Share your experience in the comments, and let’s help other pet parents stay informed

FAQs

Here are the answers to your questions about dogs and damsons:

Can dogs eat damsons jam?

No. Damson jam is high in sugar and may contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Are all parts of the damson toxic to dogs?

No, only certain parts are highly toxic. The pit leaves and stems contain cyanogenic compounds that can release cyanide, which is poisonous to dogs. The flesh of ripe damsons is less dangerous but may still cause digestive issues.

How long does it take for symptoms of poisoning to appear?

Symptoms of cyanide poisoning, if a dog chews or swallows a damson pit, can appear within 15 minutes to a few hours. If you suspect poisoning, seek immediate veterinary attention.

Can my dog safely eat dried or cooked damsons?

No. drying concentrates sugars, which can cause digestive upset. Cooking does not remove toxins from the pit. Avoid both dried and cooked damsons.

Has any dog ever died from eating damsons, or is the risk just theoretical?

Yes, there have been documented cases of dogs experiencing severe poisoning or even death from ingesting fruit pits containing cyanide, including damsons. While a single pit may not always be fatal, the risk is serious, especially for small dogs or puppies. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if a dog eats damson pits.