Can dogs eat cherries?

Yes, but only the flesh. Cherry flesh is safe and nutritious for dogs. However, pits, stems and leaves are toxic to dogs because they contain amygdalin. Only offer pitted, ripe cherries in small amounts: best as an occasional treat.

What cherries offer dogs

Cherries contain valuable nutrients that benefit your dog:

• Vitamin A (approximately 64 µg per 100 g)
• Vitamin C (approximately 15 mg per 100 g)
• Folate (approximately 8 µg per 100 g)
• Beta-carotene (approximately 380 µg per 100 g)
• Potassium (approximately 222 mg per 100 g)
• Magnesium (approximately 11 mg per 100 g)
• Antioxidants
• Dietary fiber (approximately 1.6 g per 100 g)

The flesh itself is not toxic and can be fed in moderation. These nutrients support overall health when given as part of a balanced diet.

What to watch out for

Cherry pits, stems and leaves contain amygdalin, which is converted to hydrocyanic acid (cyanide) in your dog's digestive tract. Cyanide blocks oxygen absorption at the cellular level, which can lead to poisoning. Small dog breeds, puppies and dogs with pre-existing conditions are at higher risk.

Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include:

• Dilated pupils
• Breathing problems or rapid breathing
• Reddened mucous membranes
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Trembling or cramps
• Weakness or collapse
• In severe cases: unconsciousness

Symptoms usually appear within 15 minutes to a few hours. If you suspect poisoning, contact your vet immediately.

How to feed cherries to your dog

Preparation is key:

• Wash cherries thoroughly to remove pesticides
• Remove all pits, stems and leaves completely
• Cut into small pieces, especially for smaller dogs
• Start with just 1 or 2 pieces to see how your dog reacts
• Watch your dog after feeding for any signs of upset

Sour versus sweet cherries: Both varieties are safe when pitted. Sour cherries contain slightly more vitamin A and C than sweet cherries but are more acidic and may cause stomach problems in sensitive dogs.

If your dog swallows cherry pits: One or two unchewed pits usually pass through without causing problems, since amygdalin is only released when pits are broken or chewed. However, if your dog ate multiple pits or chewed them, contact your vet to be safe.

Nutritional values and amount

Per 100 g of sweet cherries (flesh only): approximately 63 calories, 0.8 g protein, 12.8 g carbohydrates, 1.6 g fiber, 15 mg vitamin C, and 8 g natural sugars.

Guideline by body weight (pitted sweet cherries as an occasional treat):

• Small dogs (up to 10 kg): 1 to 2 cherries
• Medium dogs (10 to 25 kg): 2 to 5 cherries
• Large dogs (over 25 kg): 5 to 8 cherries

Cherries should be an occasional snack only, not a regular part of your dog's diet. Always prioritize a balanced, complete dog food as the foundation.

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