Nectarines?

What to watch out for

PetMD says a few bites of fresh, washed nectarine are fine for a healthy adult dog, but the pit is poisonous and should always be removed. The problem is the stone in the middle.

PetMD's article on stone fruits explains that a pit that reaches the stomach or intestines can cause a blockage, which it calls the most commonly reported adverse result of ingesting fruit pits, and that foreign body obstructions often require surgery. It also says the cyanide-containing material is in the kernel, the true seed at the center of the pit, and that a dog must chew or break the pit to release it. It names nectarines, peaches and cherries among the fruits whose stones cause problems.

The flesh is the other half of the story. PetMD says nectarines are high in sugar, so dogs with conditions such as diabetes or obesity may need to avoid them altogether. That is why this fruit sits under caution: the fruit is fine in small amounts, the whole nectarine is not. Cut the flesh away from the pit and bin the stone where your dog cannot reach it, including fallen fruit under a tree.

What to give instead

Wash the fruit, cut it open, and remove the pit completely before offering anything. Cut the flesh into bite-size pieces. PetMD recommends fresh, washed nectarine in small bites.

Treats should stay under 10% of daily calories. PetMD's suggested maximums run from up to 1 teaspoon for extra-small dogs (2-20 lb / 1-9 kg) to up to 3 tablespoons for extra-large dogs (91 lb / 41 kg and over); treat those as a ceiling, not a target, and start smaller. Skip it if your dog has diabetes unless your vet agrees, and avoid canned fruit in syrup.

If your dog already ate it

If your dog ate only the flesh, watch for an upset stomach and offer water.

If your dog swallowed a pit, or chewed one and you see signs such as retching, repeated vomiting, a painful belly or no appetite, call your vet or an emergency clinic right away. PetMD lists salivation, rapid or difficult breathing and gums that turn bright cherry red as signs of cyanide poisoning, which it calls a medical emergency. You can also call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (US; fees may apply). Outside the US, contact your local emergency vet. Do not try to make your dog vomit at home.