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Is raw quince more dangerous for my 15 kg dog than a raw apple, especially the core?

Dogs · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

Yes, raw quince is riskier than a raw apple because its seeds contain cyanogenic compounds, which can release cyanide when chewed. Apple seeds also contain trace amounts, but quince seeds are considered more concerning in larger quantities. The tough, sour flesh of raw quince can also cause stomach upset. It's safer to offer small amounts of cooked, seedless quince flesh if you want to share. If your dog ate raw quince with seeds, watch for signs like drooling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing and call your vet if you see them.

Quince — Food safety facts

Feed with care · Dogs · full breakdown on the linked food page

Cooked flesh is safe in small amounts. The seeds contain cyanogenic compounds.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Feed with care), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Quince is not poisonous to dogs, but it is easy to over-feed. Rich fat, salt or seasoning can bring on vomiting or diarrhoea within a day, and repeated large portions are a recognised trigger for pancreatitis.

If it ate some before you noticed, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness or a painful, swollen abdomen over the next 24 hours. A one-off small amount in a healthy adult usually passes with water and rest; repeated exposure, a puppy or kitten, a senior, or a pet with an ongoing illness is a reason to call your vet the same day.

Why these cautions matter

Stone-fruit pits and some seeds release cyanide when crushed, and quite apart from that they are a choking and blockage hazard.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Quince food facts page.

Open the full food page: Quince food facts →