13 Chewy Dried Apricot Dog Chews (Flesh Only Guide)

Kicking off our list is the gold standard for health-conscious pet owners: Sunny Paws Apricot Bites. These treats are all about purity. Made from 100% USDA-certified organic Turkish apricots, they are completely free from sulfites, added sugars, and artificial preservatives. The apricots are hand-pitted and gently dehydrated to preserve their natural sweetness and nutritional value.

The texture is a delightful soft chew, easy for most dogs to handle but still satisfying. We were impressed by the brand’s transparency, with clear sourcing information and a commitment to quality. If you want to give your dog a fruity treat with absolutely no hidden nasties, this is the one to reach for.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Sunny Paws Apricot Bites are the perfect choice for the discerning pet parent who prioritizes organic, pure ingredients above all else. They’re a fantastic, worry-free option for dogs of all ages.

Finding treats for senior dogs or young puppies can be a challenge. Their teeth and jaws just aren’t up for tough chews. That’s where Orchard Gold Chews shine. These treats are specifically designed to have an extra-soft, pliable texture that’s incredibly gentle on the mouth. They are easy to break apart for smaller dogs or for use as a quick reward.

The ingredients are simple: just dehydrated apricot flesh and a touch of natural vegetable glycerin to maintain that signature softness. They are easy to digest and have a mild, sweet flavor that even picky eaters seem to enjoy. While they don’t offer a long-lasting chew, they are perfect for a gentle, flavorful snack.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: If you have a senior dog, a teething puppy, or a dog with sensitive teeth, Orchard Gold Chews are a wonderful and compassionate choice that lets them enjoy a fruity treat without any discomfort.

For those who like to know exactly where their dog’s food comes from, Golden State Softies offers peace of mind. These treats are made exclusively from apricots grown on small, sustainable farms in California’s Central Valley. The company prides itself on its farm-to-pouch philosophy, ensuring peak freshness and quality control.

The treats themselves are small, soft squares with a rich, deep orange color. They have a concentrated apricot flavor that dogs go wild for. By supporting this brand, you’re not only giving your dog a high-quality treat but also supporting sustainable American agriculture. It’s a win-win for eco-conscious pet parents.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Golden State Softies are the ideal pick for pet owners who prioritize domestic, sustainably sourced ingredients and want to give their dog a taste of California sunshine.

Want a treat that does more than just taste good? Apricoat Treats are a functional snack designed to support your dog’s skin and coat health. Each chewy piece is infused with a dose of omega-3 fatty acids from cold-pressed fish oil. This powerhouse combination of Vitamin A from the apricots and omegas from the fish oil helps to promote a shiny, healthy coat and soothe dry skin.

You might worry about a fishy smell, but the brand has done an excellent job of balancing the formula so the sweet apricot aroma is still dominant. The treats are coin-shaped and have a satisfyingly chewy texture. It’s an ingenious way to sneak some extra coat-boosting goodness into your dog’s day.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Apricoat Treats are a fantastic choice for dogs who struggle with dry skin or a dull coat, especially breeds like Labs, German Shepherds, or any pup needing a little extra shine.

Training is all about quick, high-value rewards, and Pit-Free Pet Pops are made for the job. These are tiny, pea-sized morsels of dried apricot, making them perfect for rapid-fire treating without overfeeding your dog. Their small size means you can keep a handful in your pocket without them becoming a sticky mess.

The flavor is potent, which is exactly what you want to keep your dog’s attention during a training session. They are chewy enough to be satisfying but small enough to be eaten quickly, so your dog can immediately refocus on the next command. They’re a simple, effective tool for any positive reinforcement training regimen.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For pet parents actively engaged in obedience, agility, or any other form of training, Pit-Free Pet Pops are an invaluable, healthy, and motivating reward.

If your dog loves the satisfying, long-lasting experience of chewing on jerky, they’ll adore California Sunshine Strips. These aren’t your typical soft bites; they are thick, leathery strips of pure dehydrated apricot that provide a genuinely satisfying chew. This makes them a great option for keeping your dog occupied for a few minutes.

The dehydration process used for these strips makes them tougher and less sticky than other treats on the list. They are great for dental health, as the chewing action can help scrape away plaque. Made from 100% California apricots, they offer a robust, sun-dried flavor that dogs find irresistible. Just be sure to supervise your pup, as with any larger chew treat.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For medium to large dogs that enjoy a good, solid chew, California Sunshine Strips provide a healthy, fruity alternative to traditional meat jerky and rawhide.

Who says treats can’t be fun? The Chewy Apricot Co. has rolled their delicious apricot formula into small, firm, ball-shaped treats called Bounces. Their unique, slightly rubbery texture gives them a little bit of a bounce when dropped, which can turn treat time into a mini-game of catch.

These are fantastic for treat-dispensing toys, as they roll and bounce around inside, making your dog work for their reward. The ingredients are simple and wholesome, focusing on pure apricot with a natural binder to hold the fun shape. They’re a great way to add a little mental stimulation and playtime into your dog’s snacking routine.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For playful pups and owners who love to incorporate enrichment activities into their day, Bounces offer a unique and interactive way to treat.

For dogs with sensitive stomachs or a long list of food allergies, finding a safe treat can feel like navigating a minefield. Furry Friend Fruit Chews are the answer. Their philosophy is radical simplicity: one ingredient. That’s it. Just 100% dehydrated apricot flesh, sliced into bite-sized pieces.

There are no binders, no preservatives, no hidden chicken broth, no grains—nothing. This makes them an exceptionally safe choice for dogs on limited-ingredient diets. The flavor is pure, unadulterated apricot. While they may not have fancy shapes or added supplements, their purity is what makes them a top-tier choice for dogs with dietary restrictions.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: If your dog is plagued by allergies or you’re doing an elimination diet, Furry Friend Fruit Chews provide a delicious and, most importantly, safe reward you can give with total confidence.

In a world of mass-produced pet products, Wag-Worthy Slices stand out for their artisanal quality. These treats are made in small batches by a family-owned company. Each apricot is visually inspected, pitted, and sliced by hand before being placed in a low-temperature dehydrator for an extended period. This gentle process preserves the delicate flavor and nutrients of the fruit.

The result is a beautiful, translucent, and perfectly chewy slice of apricot. You can tell a lot of care goes into making each bag. For pet parents who appreciate craftsmanship and small-batch quality, these treats are a delightful find.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For the pet owner who views their dog as a furry foodie, Wag-Worthy Apricot Slices are the gourmet, small-batch option that’s worth the splurge.

Healthy Hound takes the nutritional power of apricots and gives it a boost by blending it with another dog-approved superfood: sweet potato. These soft, cube-shaped treats combine the vitamins of apricot with the fiber, beta-carotene, and deliciousness of sweet potato. This creates a more complex flavor profile and a softer, moister chew.

This blend is fantastic for digestive health, as both ingredients are rich in dietary fiber. The natural sweetness is enhanced by the sweet potato, making these treats extra palatable for picky eaters. It’s a smart combination that elevates a simple fruit snack into a more nutritionally dense delight.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Healthy Hound Apricot Delights are perfect for owners looking to maximize the nutritional punch of their dog’s treats, especially for pups who could use a little extra fiber in their diet.

This one is for the purists. Simply Apricot Jerky has a clear and simple mission: to deliver the purest apricot chew possible. Their ingredient list is as short as it gets: apricots. There are no preservatives, no processing aids, no glazes, and no added glycerin for softness. They are simply pitted, sliced, and dehydrated.

This results in a tougher, more natural-feeling chew that varies slightly from piece to piece. It’s the closest you can get to giving your dog a piece of dried apricot straight from your own trail mix (without the risk of sulfites or other additives). Their commitment to an unadulterated product is commendable and perfect for dogs with very sensitive systems.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: If you’re a minimalist when it comes to ingredients and want a treat that is as close to nature as possible, Simply Apricot Jerky is the clear winner.

Running a multi-dog household means you go through treats at an alarming rate. Pawsitive Provisions understands this, offering their Apricot Chews in a value-sized bulk bag that delivers great quality without breaking the bank. These are no-frills, bite-sized chews that are consistently made and reliably tasty.

While they may not be organic or artisanal, they are made with good-quality, sulfite-free apricots and are a solid, dependable choice for an everyday treat. The resealable bulk bag keeps them fresh for a long time. It’s the practical, economical choice for families with a whole pack to please.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For the budget-conscious pet owner or anyone with multiple furry mouths to feed, Pawsitive Provisions offers the best bang for your buck without compromising on safety or quality.

Did you know that Turkish apricots are often considered the sweetest and most flavorful in the world? Tail-Waggers has built their entire brand around this single ingredient. They source their Malatya apricots directly from Turkey, known for their honey-like sweetness and soft, plump texture even after drying.

These treats have a distinctly sweeter, less tart flavor than their California counterparts, which can be a huge hit with dogs who have a sweet tooth. They are naturally sun-dried without the use of sulfur dioxide, which helps them retain their nutritional value and flavor. It’s a little taste of an exotic locale for your deserving pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: If you want to offer your dog a bit of variety or have a pup that prefers sweeter flavors, Tail-Waggers Turkish Treats provide a unique and delicious international snacking experience.

Feeling inspired to add some fruity fun to your dog’s treat jar? Fantastic! Before you click ‘add to cart,’ let’s go over a few key things to look for to ensure you’re getting the best and safest product for your furry friend.

Flesh Only: The Golden Rule

This cannot be overstated. The single most important factor is ensuring the product is made from 100% apricot flesh only. Reputable brands will state this clearly. Never buy any product that is unclear about the removal of the pit (also called the stone or kernel), stem, and leaves, as these parts are toxic.

Check the Ingredient List

Simpler is almost always better. Look for a short, recognizable ingredient list.

• No Added Sugar or Syrups: Apricots are naturally sweet. Your dog doesn’t need any extra xylitol (which is highly toxic), corn syrup, or cane sugar.
• Sulfite-Free is a Must: Many dried fruits are treated with sulfur dioxide (sulfites) to preserve their color. While generally safe for humans, sulfites can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Always opt for sulfite-free or ‘unsulfured’ treats.
• Avoid Artificial Additives: Steer clear of artificial colors, flavors, and chemical preservatives like BHA or BHT.

Consider the Source and Quality

Knowing where the fruit comes from can tell you a lot about the quality. Look for brands that are transparent about their sourcing, whether it’s organic farms in Turkey or sustainable orchards in California. USDA Organic certification is a great indicator of a high-quality product grown without synthetic pesticides.

Texture, Size, and Your Dog

Think about your dog’s individual needs:

• For Seniors or Puppies: Look for softer, moister chews that are gentle on the teeth.
• For Power Chewers: A tougher, jerky-style strip will provide more satisfaction and last longer.
• For Training: Tiny, bite-sized pieces are ideal for quick rewards.

Remember: Moderation is Key!

Even the healthiest treat should be given in moderation. Apricots are a source of natural sugar and fiber. Too much can lead to an upset stomach or diarrhea. Treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. When in doubt, have a chat with your vet about appropriate snack choices for your specific dog.

Q: Are apricots really, truly safe for dogs?

A: Yes, the fleshy part of the apricot is safe for dogs when given in moderation. The danger lies in the pit (kernel), stem, and leaves, which contain cyanide and are toxic. All commercially prepared apricot dog treats, like the ones on our list, are made using only the safe, pitted flesh.

Q: How many dried apricot treats can I give my dog per day?

A: This depends on the size of your dog and the size of the treat. A good rule of thumb is the 10% rule: treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s total daily calorie intake. For a small dog, one or two small treats might be enough. For a large dog, a few more may be fine. Due to the fiber content, it’s best to start with a small amount to see how your dog’s stomach reacts. Always consult your vet for personalized advice.

Q: Can I just give my dog dried apricots from the grocery store?

A: It’s better to stick to treats made specifically for dogs. Many dried apricots intended for human consumption are treated with sulfur dioxide (sulfites) to preserve their bright orange color. It’s best to choose unsulfured apricots, which are usually darker in color but safer for your pup. Also, double-check that they don’t contain any added sugars or sweeteners like xylitol.

Q: Can I make my own dried apricot treats at home?

A: Absolutely! It’s a great way to control the ingredients. Simply wash fresh apricots, slice them in half, and meticulously remove the entire pit. You can then slice the flesh and dehydrate it in a food dehydrator or in your oven on its lowest temperature setting until they reach a chewy, leathery consistency. Let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.