PupkeeperToxic
Can dogs eat cherries? Unsafe
Unsafe. Cherry pits, stems and leaves contain cyanide, and pits can block a dog's gut. Only the ripe flesh is not toxic.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Belgium, France, JM, PR, Singapore, Switzerland, TT, VI
Cherries and dogs: key facts
- Verdict
- Toxic · Call your vet or a poison line
- What it can do
- Dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, bright red gums and shock or collapse.
- What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now. All steps
- Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline, ASPCA Animal Poison Control, AKC. Reviewed 9 October 2026.
What should I do if my dog ate cherries?
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Note what was eaten, roughly how much, and when.
- Tell the vet if pits were chewed or swallowed whole.
- Watch for breathing trouble, bright red gums, vomiting or not eating.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Symptoms to watch for
- Dilated pupils
- Difficulty breathing
- Panting
- Bright red gums
- Shock or collapse
Why
Cherry plants contain cyanide-releasing compounds that are freed when pits are chewed or crushed. Whole swallowed pits can also cause a blockage, especially in small dogs.
Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline: Cherry
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Cherry
- AKC: Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can or Can't Eat
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.