Can Dogs Eat Cherries? Petswirl's Guide to Safe Treats for Your Pup

Why Are Cherries Dangerous for Dogs?

When we ask, Can dogs eat cherries safely, the answer heavily depends on how the cherries are prepared and the quantity consumed. Here’s why cherries can be hazardous for dogs:

Cyanide Poisoning: Cherry pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, a chemical that can block the body’s cells from using oxygen. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in dogs include difficulty breathing, bright red gums, dilated pupils, and shock. Cyanide poisoning can occur when a dog consumes enough cherry pits or stems. According to Petswirl, even a few pits can put small dogs at serious risk.

Choking Hazard: The pits of cherries can easily become lodged in a dog’s throat, especially in smaller breeds. This can result in choking or digestive blockages, which may require medical intervention. If you’ve ever wondered, Can dogs eat cherries without the pit, this only resolves part of the risk, but still doesn't make cherries an ideal treat.

Digestive Issues: The flesh of cherries is not toxic, but it's still not an ideal snack for dogs. The fruit's high sugar content can cause digestive upset, including diarrhea, gas, and bloating. While a tiny portion of cherry flesh won’t immediately harm your dog, feeding too much can lead to gastrointestinal distress. For example, Petswirl warns that feeding dogs sugary fruits like cherries could lead to long-term health issues such as obesity and diabetes.

Are There Any Benefits of Cherries for Dogs?

While it might seem like cherries have some redeeming qualities—after all, they’re packed with vitamins and antioxidants—the risks far outweigh the benefits. While dogs can benefit from fruits high in fiber and antioxidants, there are safer alternatives like blueberries, apples (without the seeds), and bananas that offer similar nutritional perks without the potential dangers of cherries. When asking yourself, Can dogs eat cherries and gain any nutritional benefit, the answer is a cautious “No”—other fruits are much safer and provide the same nutrients.

Symptoms of Cherry Toxicity in Dogs

If your dog has accidentally eaten cherries—especially the pits, stems, or leaves—it's vital to monitor them for signs of poisoning or other health issues. The most common symptoms of cherry toxicity include:

• Labored breathing
• Red gums or lips
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Seizures
• Shock or collapse

If any of these symptoms occur, contact a veterinarian immediately. PetSwirl advises having the contact information of a pet poison helpline or a local vet easily accessible, just in case an emergency arises.