Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
dog safety reference
Is Apricot safe for dogs?
Prunus armeniaca
The apricot tree is a fruit-bearing species in the rose family. While the fruit flesh is generally considered safe, the stems, leaves, and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides that can be harmful if ingested.
ApricotPrunus armeniaca
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Tree
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs are the higher-risk pet for apricot trees — they're far more likely to crunch a pit on the ground, strip wilting branches, or chew bark. ASPCA lists Prunus armeniaca as toxic to dogs, and a peer-reviewed canine case report documents cyanide toxicity from a dog ingesting apricot kernel meal. The fleshy fruit is not the issue; the kernel inside the pit and the wilting foliage are.
What to watch for
ASPCA-listed signs are brick-red mucous membranes, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, and shock. The kernel-ingestion case report adds rapid breathing, weakness, tremors, and severe neurologic decline at high doses. Drooling and vomiting often appear first.
Time window
The published canine kernel-ingestion case described rapid onset within hours of consumption. Exact onset depends on how thoroughly the pit was chewed and the kernel released; specific timing varies and is not consistently documented across cases.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately for known pit or kernel ingestion, any panting or labored breathing, red or bluish gums, weakness, tremors, or seizures. Don't wait for symptoms after a kernel-chewing event — cyanide moves fast.
First aid at home
Per Pet Poison Helpline general poisoning guidance: remove your dog from the plant, do not give home antidotes, and do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison control directs you. Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) immediately.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Drooling, vomiting, rapid breathing, weakness, and potential neurological signs such as tremors or seizures.
Escalation note
The presence of cyanogenic glycosides poses a risk of cyanide toxicity. Seek veterinary attention promptly if your dog has chewed on or consumed any part of the tree.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) is listed as toxic to cats and dogs due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Prunus armeniaca is a deciduous tree known for its edible fruit, though seeds and foliage contain compounds that can be toxic to animals.
Same dog verdict
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