can dogs eat tomatoes?
Ripe, red tomatoes are generally safe for dogs in moderation, but all green parts of the plant, including stems, leaves, and unripe fruit, contain toxic compounds and should never be given to dogs.
- 1Ripe red tomatoes are safe for dogs and contain beneficial vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- 2Green parts of the tomato plant (leaves, stems, unripe fruit) contain solanine and tomatine, which are toxic to dogs.
- 3Symptoms of solanine/tomatine poisoning include gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea), lethargy, weakness, and loss of coordination.
- 4While a dog would need to consume a large quantity of green plant material to experience severe toxicity, even small amounts can cause mild symptoms.
Detailed Answer
Ripe, red tomatoes can be a healthy, low-calorie treat for dogs when given in moderation. They are rich in vitamins A and C, and beneficial antioxidants like lycopene. However, it is crucial to only offer the ripe, red fruit and ensure all green parts are removed.
The stems, leaves, and unripe green tomatoes contain solanine and tomatine, glycoalkaloids that are toxic to dogs. Ingesting these compounds can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. More severe symptoms, though rare, can include lethargy, weakness, dilated pupils, loss of coordination, and a slow heart rate. The concentration of these toxins decreases significantly as the fruit ripens.
Always wash ripe tomatoes thoroughly and remove the stem and any green parts before offering them to your dog. Introduce new foods slowly and in small quantities to monitor for any adverse reactions. If your dog consumes green tomato plant material or unripe tomatoes and shows signs of illness, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Published: July 3, 2026