Can dogs eat date?
Quick answer: Not recommended — date is best avoided for dogs.
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Extremely high in sugar; the stone is a choking and obstruction hazard and must be removed.
Why
Only a tiny piece of stoned date occasionally for dogs.
Can dogs eat date, and why?
Only a tiny piece of stoned date occasionally for dogs. Extremely high in sugar; the stone is a choking and obstruction hazard and must be removed.
Dogs are omnivores, so most of their diet should be a complete, balanced dog food, with treats on top. They cope with a wide range of foods, but rich, fatty or sugary ones can cause stomach upset and, over time, weight gain or pancreatitis.
Warning — what to watch for
Extremely high in sugar; the stone is a choking and obstruction hazard and must be removed.
If your dog has eaten date, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
🚨 Find an emergency vet near youMore foods dogs might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding dogs well:
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat date?
Caution. Only a tiny piece of stoned date occasionally for dogs.
What happens if my dog eats date?
Extremely high in sugar; the stone is a choking and obstruction hazard and must be removed. If your dog has eaten date, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is date poisonous to dogs?
Caution. Only a tiny piece of stoned date occasionally for dogs.
Free printable: safe & toxic foods for dogs
date is just one food — get the full one-page checklist of what’s safe, fine in moderation, or dangerous for dogs. Vet-sourced, yours to print and keep.
Check date for another pet
Sources
Our verdict on whether dogs can eat date draws on established UK and US veterinary and welfare organisations. Individual pets, quantities and preparation vary — always confirm with your own vet.