Last reviewed: August 2026
A small piece of pitted date is generally safe occasionally, but dates are very high in sugar, so they should be a rare treat, not a regular one.
Dates carry no specific toxin risk, but they're one of the most sugar-dense fruits available, and the pit is a hard obstruction/choking hazard. For a dog managing weight or at risk of diabetes, dates aren't a good regular treat choice.
General veterinary toxicology consensus, cross-referenced against the Merck Veterinary Manual and ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center food hazard references. See How We Source This for our methodology.
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for veterinary advice.