Can Dogs Eat Cherries?

Sometimes

Varies by type or preparation

⚠️ It depends. Cherry flesh is safe in moderation, but pits, stems, and leaves are toxic.

The flesh of cherries is safe for dogs and provides vitamins and antioxidants. However, cherry pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide compounds that are toxic. The pits also pose a choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages. Maraschino cherries should be avoided due to high sugar content.

Important Information

Safety Level

Varies - Flesh is safe; pits and plant parts are toxic

Timing

Cyanide poisoning symptoms within 15-20 minutes if pits are crushed; blockage symptoms within 24-72 hours

cherry Flesh

safety: Safe in moderation

benefits: Vitamins A and C, fiber, antioxidants

concerns: High sugar content, can cause stomach upset if too many

portion: 1-2 cherries for small dogs, 3-4 for large dogs

cherry Pits

danger: Toxic - contain cyanide compounds

symptoms: Difficulty breathing, bright red gums, dilated pupils, shock

toxic Amount: Several pits would need to be chewed and consumed to cause cyanide poisoning

additional Risk: Choking hazard and intestinal blockage risk

🩺 Possible Symptoms

●From pits: labored breathing, bright red gums, dilated pupils
●From too much fruit: diarrhea, stomach upset
●From blockage: vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation

📋 What to Do

1. If pits were swallowed whole, monitor for blockage symptoms

2. If pits were chewed/crushed, contact vet immediately

3. Note number of cherries and whether pits were consumed

4. Watch for breathing difficulties or bright red gums

5. For intestinal blockage, veterinary intervention needed

🛡️ Prevention & Tips

Always remove pits before giving cherries to dogs. Only offer fresh cherries, not canned or maraschino. Keep cherry trees fenced off if you have them in your yard. Dispose of pits securely. Consider safer fruits like blueberries as alternatives.

Related Foods