Dogs

Can Dogs Have Avocado?

Nicole Groshek  |  February 26, 2024  |  4 minute read

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Avocados are a versatile and nutrient-rich fruit that humans can’t seem to get enough of! But when it comes to whether or not you can share some avocado with your dog, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. While avocados aren’t classified as toxic to dogs, there are important reasons why you should think twice before offering a slice to your pup.

Are Avocados Good for Dogs?

Avocados do contain a lot of macro and micro nutrients that are good for dogs, including fiber, essential minerals, and vitamins A, C and E. However, avocado is a fruit that is calorie dense and has a substantial amount of fat. The high amount of fat may cause gastric and digestive upset or even pancreatitis in dogs, and the higher calorie content may cause unhealthy weight gain over time. 

It’s always best for your dog to get complete daily nutrition from high-quality dog food. There’s no nutrient in avocado that dogs can’t get from a more appropriate food source. Dog parents who want to share some people food with their dog should learn about which human foods are safe for dogs to eat.

Are Avocados Toxic to Dogs?

Many online sources claim that persin, a naturally occurring fungicidal toxin present in avocados, is mildly toxic to dogs. In fact, there is no substantial research to prove the fruit (or persin in the fruit) is toxic to dogs, or why persin is toxic to other animals.

Can Dogs Have Avocado?

Small amounts of avocado may be fed to dogs in moderation, but larger portions should be avoided. Your dog’s required diet will need to be kept in mind as well. For example, dogs that are obese or at risk for pancreatitis should not consume avocado outside of their normal diets. It may be best to err on the side of caution and avoid feeding your dog avocado altogether – instead opt for feeding another fruit that is known to be safe, such as bananas or blueberries.

What to Do if Your Dog Eats Avocado

If your dog ate a small amount of avocado flesh they’ll most likely be OK, but you should monitor them for signs of digestive upset, especially if they’ve never eaten it before. If your dog managed to eat an entire avocado you should call your vet right away, because the avocado pit can pose a serious danger. Not only are avocado pits a choking hazard, they can cause a bowel obstruction which can become a life-threatening emergency. Avocado skin can also be a choking hazard for dogs, so dispose of the peel and pit right away if you’re preparing food with avocado, and get a garbage can with a locking lid if your dog tends to scavenge.

Never Give Your Dog Guacamole

While the avocado in guacamole isn’t toxic to dogs, the onions and garlic most definitely are. 
Don’t let your dog eat guacamole, salsa, or any other foods containing plants from the onion family (garlic, shallots, chives, scallions, ramps, leeks), and learn which other human foods are toxic to dogs.

Can Dogs Have Avocado Oil?

Like avocado fruit, avocado oil is very high in fat which can cause digestive upset and could trigger pancreatitis in some dogs. Don’t put avocado oil on your dog’s food, or give them any food cooked in avocado oil.

Avocado oil can be helpful for soothing & moisturizing dry skin, but that doesn’t mean you should put avocado oil on your dog. It’s better to use shampoo, conditioner, balm, cream or salve that’s made with avocado oil, as long as the product is formulated to be safe for dogs.  If your dog has dry skin or other coat issues, start by asking your vet what treatment they recommend. We also offer a nutritionally complete dog food formulated to support skin and coat health.

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Avocado?

Avocado isn’t a known allergen for dogs, but as with any food, your dog can develop an allergy to avocado with repeated exposure over time. Dogs that have an adverse reaction after eating avocado are more likely suffering from digestive distress caused by ingesting too much fat. 
In summary, avocado is a very controversial ingredient when it comes to dog nutrition, and it’s best to avoid giving your dog avocado. If you want to treat your dog to something special, pumpkin is good for dogs in moderation. You can also use a bowl topper to boost mealtime excitement!