Can Dogs Eat Cherries? Shocking Truth You Must Know

Cherries may seem like a fun treat for dogs, but they are poisonous because they contain cyanide, which can upset your dog’s stomach.Cherries offer health benefits, such as antioxidants, and their flesh contains vitamins A, C, and fiber. However, the toxic parts of the cherry, including the pit, stems, and leaves make them more harmful than beneficial.

Why Can’t Dogs Eat Cherries? The Hidden Dangers Explained

Cherries can be harmful to dogs for several reasons:

They are toxic; even a small amount of cyanide can cause poisoning, leading to severe symptoms like an upset stomach, difficulty breathing and even fatal consequences(source: ASPCA).

If a dog swallows the pit, it can lead to an intestinal blockage, causing discomfort and requiring emergency surgery to save the dog’s life.

Eating a large amount of cherries can also cause poisoning and endanger the dog’s life.

The toxic parts of the fruit outweigh any nutritional benefits, making cherries a risky meal for dogs.

Are All Kinds of Cherries Dangerous for Dogs?

Cherries, such as Bing, Rainier, or black cherries, are not healthy for dogs.

If these cherries are ingested, they can cause stomach and digestive issues because they contain pits.

Maraschino and canned cherries often contain added sugar and preservatives, which can lead to obesity, diabetes, and dental issues. They are the worst cherries for your dog.

Although cherries have some benefits like vitamins and antioxidants, it is best to avoid feeding them to your dog.

Remove the pit, stem, and leaves when offering cherries to dogs.

Symptoms of Cherry Poisoning in Dogs: What to Watch For

If your dog shows any of these symptoms, it’s important to take action(source: Pet Poison Helpline).

Difficulty breathing

Lethargy

Digestive distress

Stomach pain

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Allergic reactions (swelling, itching, hives)

Red gums

dilated pupils

blockage of intestine

decrease in appetite

What to Do if Your Dog Eats a Whole Cherry (Step-by-Step Guide)

If your dog eats cherries, don’t panic. Keep monitoring and follow these steps:

Stay Calm: A small amount is unlikely to cause harm, but keep an eye out.

Watch for Symptoms: Look for symptoms mentioned above.

Call the Vet: If symptoms become serious (e.g., difficulty breathing), call your vet for advice.

Types of Cherries and Their Safety for Dogs

Type of Cherry	Is It Safe for Dogs?	Why or Why Not
Fresh Cherries (with pit removed)	Yes (if pit is removed)	The flesh is safe in small quantities, but always remove the pit first.
Fresh Cherries (with pit)	No	The pit contains cyanide, which is toxic and poses a choking hazard.
Dried Cherries	No	Dried cherries may contain higher sugar content, preservatives, and pits, making them unsafe.
Canned Cherries	No	Often contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners that can be harmful to dogs.
Frozen Cherries (with pit removed)	Yes (if pit is removed)	Frozen cherries without the pit are safe, but should be given in moderation.
Cherry Juice	No	Contains high sugar content and possibly additives that can upset a dog’s stomach.

Are There Safer Alternatives?

Here are some safer fruit alternatives for dogs:
Blueberries

Mangoes

Apples (without seeds or core)

Bananas

Strawberries

Watermelon

Pineapple

These fruits are not only safe but also provide health benefits for your dog. Always remember to serve them in moderation! Want to know more about me and my work? Click here.

People also ask

1. Can dogs have cherries without pits?
   Dogs can eat cherries safely if you remove the pits and stems beforehand, as these parts of the fruit are not safe for dogs. Cherries provide several nutritional benefits, with one cup containing 3.23 grams of fiber, 10.8 milligrams of vitamin C, and 342 milligrams of potassium.
2. Can I give my dog cherry?
   No, you should not give your dog cherries. Cherries are harmful for dogs because their pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, which is toxic to them.
3. Can a dog eat cherries with skin?
   Yes, a dog can eat cherries with skin. The flesh and skin of the cherry are fine for your dog, as long as the pit and stem are removed.
4. What if my dog ate a bowl of cherries?
   If your dog ate a bowl of cherries, watch for signs like dilated pupils, inflamed gums, trouble breathing, upset stomach, diarrhea, and shock. These symptoms may indicate poisoning, so it’s important to contact your vet immediately.