Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?
Mintra Kwthijak/iStock/Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new foods, especially “people foods.” What might be OK for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet unless your veterinarian tells you it’s fine to do so.
There’s nothing like a juicy, ripe tomato to add color and flavor to your sandwich or salad. Even canned tomatoes seem to find their way into nearly every kind of recipe you can think of. But what about our canine companions? Can dogs eat tomatoes or should they steer clear?
When fed in moderation, dogs can eat ripe tomatoes safely. Young, green tomatoes can be harmful to dogs.
Here’s what you need to know about safely sharing tomatoes with your dog.
Key Takeaways
- Ripe tomatoes are safe for dogs. Avoid unripe tomatoes and green parts—they contain toxic tomatine.
- Tomatoes offer nutrients. They provide vitamins A, C, potassium, and antioxidants.
- Moderation is key. Too many tomatoes can upset your dog’s stomach.
- Skip tomato-based foods. Products like sauces or soups may contain toxic ingredients.
Can Dogs Have Tomatoes?
Yes, dogs can have ripe tomatoes in small amounts.
The worry about tomatoes being toxic comes from tomatine, a compound found mostly in the green parts of the plant, including the stems, leaves, and unripe (green) tomatoes. These parts can make dogs sick.
As tomatoes ripen, tomatine levels drop significantly, making ripe tomatoes generally safe. Just be sure to avoid feeding your dog any unripe tomatoes or parts of the plant.
Watch out for other tomato-based foods like soup, salsa, and sauce. They often contain ingredients like garlic or onions, which are toxic to dogs.
Instead, stick to fresh tomatoes or try dog treats or food made with tomatoes. Some options include:
Are Tomatoes Good for Dogs?
As a low-calorie, nutrient-rich food that offers several vitamins and minerals, tomatoes can be good for dogs when offered in moderation. Here are a few benefits dogs can derive from the trusty red tomato:
-
They’re rich in vitamins A and C. These vitamins help keep your dog’s immune system strong. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
-
They’re a natural source of potassium. Potassium is an electrolyte that supports proper muscle contraction and nerve function.
-
They’re loaded with antioxidants. Tomatoes contain antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene, which may help support your dog’s immune system and lower the risk of chronic disease.
Are Tomatoes Bad for Dogs?
As with any kind of people food—even non-toxic ones like ripe tomatoes—there are also some risks to consider:
-
Unripe tomatoes and plants can be toxic. Green tomatoes, stems, and leaves contain higher levels of tomatine, which can upset your dog’s stomach or, in large amounts, cause more serious poisoning. Keep dogs away from your garden to prevent nibbling on unripe fruit or plants.
-
Too many tomatoes can cause digestive upset. Even ripe tomatoes can cause mild stomach upset, like diarrhea or gas, if your dog eats too many at once. Introduce them slowly and feed only in moderation.
-
They’re naturally acidic. High-acid foods may irritate the stomach lining in dogs with sensitive digestive systems or worsen conditions like acid reflux. Dogs with chronic gastroenteritis or kidney disease may be more sensitive.
-
Some kinds can be a choking hazard. Cherry tomatoes or larger chunks can pose a choking risk, especially for small dogs.
How Many Tomatoes Can a Dog Eat?
Treats, including tomatoes, should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. The rest should come from a well-balanced dog food.
Here are general serving guidelines for ripe tomato pieces (about 1/2-inch cubes):
| Dog Size | Serving Size | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Extra-small dogs (2–10 pounds) | 1 piece | 2–3 times per week |
| Small dogs (11–20 pounds) | 2 pieces | 2–3 times per week |
| Medium dogs (21–50 pounds) | 3 pieces | 2–3 times per week |
| Large dogs (51–90 pounds) | 4 pieces | 2–3 times per week |
| Extra-large dogs (91+ pounds) | 5 pieces | 2–3 times per week |
When offering tomatoes for the first time, watch closely for signs of stomach upset like diarrhea or vomiting. Allergic reactions are uncommon but also possible. Watch for itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms.
How To Safely Feed Tomatoes to Dogs
While fresh, ripe tomatoes can be a safe and healthy treat for dogs, they should always be prepared properly before landing in your pup’s bowl.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind before offering tomatoes to your dog:
-
Choose ripe tomatoes. They contain less tomatine and are easier for dogs to digest.
-
Remove stems and leaves. These parts have the most tomatine.
-
Wash thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides.
-
Cut into bite-size pieces to avoid choking.
-
Limit portions. Introduce gradually and watch for any adverse reactions.
Once prepared safely, tomatoes can be served in different ways:
-
On their own as a refreshing snack
-
Chopped and mixed into your dog’s kibble
-
Spread on a lick mat, like the Frisco Silicone Lick Mat
-
Blended and frozen into a KONG toy
What Other Fruits Can Dogs Eat?
The following fruits are safe for dogs to eat in moderation:
You can also try fruit-based dog treats:
Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes FAQs
Can dogs eat cherry tomatoes?
Yes, if they’re ripe, plain, and cut into small pieces. Don’t overdo it.
Can dogs eat ketchup?
No. Ketchup often contains sugar, salt, and sometimes xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Can dogs eat tomato sauce?
No. Tomato sauce often contains harmful ingredients, like garlic, onion, or unsafe herbs.
Can dogs eat grape tomatoes?
Yes, dogs can eat grape tomatoes as long as they’re ripe, washed, served plain, and cut into smaller pieces to prevent choking.
