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Pawrennial

Can dogs eat cherries?

Only with care.

A little pitted cherry flesh won't poison a dog, but cherries aren't recommended. The pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, and pits can cause a blockage, especially in small dogs. There are safer fruit treats.

Why cherries are risky

  • Pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, which is released when they're chewed
  • Pits can get stuck in the intestines, especially in small dogs
  • Maraschino and candied cherries are loaded with sugar

One swallowed pit is unlikely to cause cyanide poisoning, but several pits, or regular access to a cherry tree, raise the risk.

Warning signs

Call your vet if your dog ate several cherries with pits, or shows:

  • Vomiting, not eating, or constipation (possible blockage)
  • Difficulty breathing, bright red gums, or dilated pupils (possible cyanide poisoning, an emergency)

Better fruit treats

Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries give a similar sweet hit without the pits.

Helpful tools and guides

Frequently asked questions

My dog ate one cherry with the pit. Should I worry?

One cherry is unlikely to cause harm in a medium or large dog. Watch for vomiting, constipation, or breathing changes, and call your vet if you see any, or if your dog is small.

Can dogs eat maraschino cherries?

No. Even without pits, they're very high in sugar.

Can dogs eat dried cherries?

It's best not to. They're often sweetened, and some trail mixes also contain raisins, which are toxic to dogs.

Sources

Sources last checked: . How we calculate

Tools for your dog