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Can Dogs Eat Cherries?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Are cherries safe for dogs?
Cherries are small, sweet stone fruits. Like other stone fruits, their pits, stems and leaves contain cyanide-producing compounds. The flesh of a pitted cherry is not toxic, but the pit, stem and leaves contain cyanide-producing compounds, and the pit is also a choking and blockage hazard, so most owners choose to skip cherries altogether.
How to reduce the risks if you offer cherries
- If you offer any at all, remove the pit, stem and leaves completely first
- Offer only a small piece of flesh
- Keep cherry pits from snacks or baking well out of reach
What to avoid
- The pits, stems and leaves, which contain cyanide-producing compounds
- Maraschino cherries, which are high in sugar
- A whole bunch of cherries, even without obvious pit damage, because of the choking risk
How many cherries can my dog have?
If you decide to offer cherries despite the cautions above, give just one tiny taste and check with your vet first, especially if your dog has any health condition. When in doubt, skip it.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Important: A large amount of crushed pits can release cyanide, causing dilated pupils, bright red gums, difficulty breathing and shock. One or two swallowed whole pits are more a blockage risk than a poisoning risk, but call your vet if you are unsure how much was eaten.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat cherries?
Because cherries need extra caution for adult dogs, it is best to avoid them for puppies.
What if my dog ate too many cherries?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your dog ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
Should cherries be a regular part of my dog's diet?
No. We recommend not making cherries a regular part of your dog's diet.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Cherries?