Can dog's eat... Cherries?

Can dogs eat cherries without pits?
Can dogs eat cooked cherries?
Can dogs eat glace cherries?
Can dogs eat dried cherries?
Can dogs eat cherry pie?
Are cherries good for dogs?
What should I do if my dog has eaten too many cherries?
What other fruits can I offer my dog?
Summary

The great news is that cherry flesh is not toxic to dogs. However, there are a few things you should bear in mind if you want to share this sweet snack with your pet. We’re going to look at the safest ways to offer your dog cherries and whether they could have any health benefits for your pet.

Let’s explore in more detail…

#Can dogs eat cherries without pits?

Yes, this is absolutely the best way to offer your dog cherries.

It is the pits, leaves, and stems of cherries that contain cyanide. If these are consumed in high enough quantities, they could make your dog very unwell. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include:

● Dilated pupils

● Breathing difficulties

● Bright red gums

● Impaired oxygen levels

● Shock

● Death

Cyanide is only released when cherry pits are chewed or crushed, and the cherries we purchase for human consumption are generally lower in cyanide than other varieties. Poisoning is not generally expected if your dog swallows cherry pits whole. However, multiple pits could lead to other problems like an obstruction in the digestive tract, especially in small dogs or puppies.

But it’s not worth taking the risk - only ever offer your dog the sweet ripe flesh from a cherry. Keep unpitted cherries well out of reach from your pet.

##Can dogs eat cooked cherries?

Small amounts of cooked cherries are unlikely to do your dog too much harm, but it is not recommended. Cherries are often cooked or stewed in large amounts of sugar, which is not particularly healthy for your dog. So, it’s best to stick to raw, fresh ones instead.

##Can dogs eat glace cherries?

Again, while not toxic, glace cherries are not a very healthy choice for your dog. These are cherries that have been processed and preserved in sugar. They will add extra calories to your pet’s diet and undo any potential health benefits.

##Can dogs eat dried cherries?

Dried cherries are not poisonous to dogs, but they are very concentrated in natural sugars. Some dried cherries may also be found in trail mixes alongside raisins or sultanas. Dried grapes definitely can be toxic to dogs and must never be given to your pet. To avoid accidents from happening, it’s probably best to steer clear of dried cherries altogether.

##Can dogs eat cherry pie?

It’s not recommended to give your dog cherry pie, or any other cherry-containing products like yoghurt, ice cream or cakes. These will contain ingredients like sugar or dairy, which can lead to
vomiting and diarrhoea in some dogs. They will also add additional calories to your pet’s diet, contributing to weight gain over time. Stick to raw, pitted cherries instead.

#Are cherries good for dogs?

Fresh cherries have some well-recognised health benefits for people. These include –

High in vitamin C – Humans (and guinea pigs!) are unable to produce their own vitamin C, so need plenty in their diet. Dogs can synthesise their own, so this is less important to them.
Rich in antioxidants – Antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help with chronic conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
High in melatonin – this compound helps to regulate sleep-wake cycles.
Good source of fibre – Fibre maintains a healthy digestive system and can help with feelings of fullness, which is useful in weight management. Read about the benefits of fibre for dogs.

While more research is needed to explore the benefits for dogs, it’s good to know that the treat you are offering your dog is a healthy one! Just remember that your pet will be getting all their essential nutrition from a good quality complete pet food, so there shouldn’t be a need to supplement them regularly with cherries.

Cherries (and other fruits) should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily diet.

#What should I do if my dog has eaten too many cherries?

If you suspect your dog has eaten too many cherries, especially if they have eaten the pits as well, it’s worth giving your vet a call. Cherry flesh will probably only cause mild digestive upset, but pits, leaves, and stems could be more problematic. If you have any concerns at all, then stop your pet eating any more cherries and phone your vet for advice.

#What other fruits can I offer my dog?

There are plenty of other fruits that you can safely offer your pets as an occasional fruity snack. These include:

Just remember not to overdo it! Moderation is key and will help to prevent tummy troubles.

#Summary

Let’s summarise the key points about dogs and cherries:

The ripe flesh of raw cherries is not toxic to dogs, but should only be offered in moderation.
The pits, stems, and leaves of cherries contain cyanide and must never be given to your pet.
Avoid giving your dog cooked or processed cherries, as these will contain other unhealthy ingredients.
If your dog has consumed too many cherries, especially unpitted ones, call your vet for advice straight away.