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My dog ate avocado skin. Is it toxic? Do I need to see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog ate an entire Avocado skin and a little piece of the fruit itself. Do I need to go to the vet?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

Published on April 21st, 2017

No, avocado does contain a toxin (persin) but it is not of concern in dogs. It is in other species. The biggest problem we see from avocados is obstruction due to ingestion of seed. Just monitor for vomiting or diarrhea. Follow up with your vet if your pet develops vomiting or diarrhea.

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6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 1st, 2017

    No worries at all ! We are to help. Only certain species are poisoned by persin (the name of the toxin inside), but despite the rumors, avocado is not poisonous to dogs. The major risk is represented by foreign body obstruction, which can occur if the dog swallowed the whole large, round avocado seed. So I would not be worried at all!! Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on July 29th, 2019

    The toxin in avocados, persin, does not affect dogs as badly as it does birds and larger farm animals. You can probably monitor him at home for now. You may see some stomach upset ( vomiting or diarrhea). You can typically manage it at home with a short fast followed by a bland diet fed in small, frequent amounts until symptoms resolve. If the stomach upset is accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite or abdominal pain then have him seen by your veterinarian right away. These are symptoms of pancreatitis. It is good he did not ingest the pit. That is the biggest worry due to risk of gastric or intestinal obstruction.

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