Yellow: with caution
Only the flesh, never the stone. The ASPCA lists the plum tree as toxic to dogs in its plant database. This refers to the stems, leaves and seeds, including the plum stone.
Why plums get a yellow rating
According to the ASPCA, plum stems, leaves and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides that release cyanide, particularly when the foliage wilts. It lists brick-red mucous membranes, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting and shock as signs of poisoning. Apricots, peaches and cherries are listed similarly. The ASPCA does not include the flesh among the toxic parts, but that does not mean dogs can eat it without limits.
What to keep in mind
- Always remove the stone: Halve the plum, remove the stone and only then offer a small piece.
- Watch for windfalls: Fruit with stones and wilted leaves gathers beneath the tree. Do not let your dog sniff around there unsupervised.
- No cake or jam: Plum cake and plum jam contain a lot of sugar.
- Keep it small: A piece of flesh is a snack. No dog needs more.
What if your dog has eaten stones or leaves?
If your dog has eaten whole plums with stones, several stones or leaves, call your vet and explain roughly how much was eaten and when. If your dog has trouble breathing, unusually red gums, large pupils or weakness, leave immediately. Do not induce vomiting yourself or give home remedies.
If you suspect poisoning, contact your vet or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Our free feeding calculator shows you how much food your dog needs each day and how to account for snacks. You can find more on meal plans and treats in our book “Dog Nutrition and Meal Plans” (book in German), and our free Puppy Starter Pack helps you get ready for a puppy. To give your dog a place on your wall, explore our dog portraits from your own photo or choose an individual portrait.
Further reading
- How to calculate how much food your dog really needs
- Is my dog overweight? How to assess body condition and ideal weight
- Puppy checklist: essentials and the first 3 days
Sources, accessed on 20.10.2026: ASPCA Animal Poison Control, Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Plum (Prunus domestica), Toxic to Dogs, toxic principle: cyanogenic glycosides in stems, leaves and seeds.
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