In small servings, ripe tomatoes are safe for dogs to eat. But the keyword here is “ripe.” Green tomatoes, especially those still growing on the vine, can be harmful for dogs, causing symptoms of tomato poisoning. So, it’s important to only treat your dog to a measured serving of bright red tomatoes.
But what about cherry tomatoes? Or canned tomatoes? Or tomato sauce? Should dogs stick to just a raw, fresh, ripe tomato? The short answer is yes, fresh is always best. But if you want to treat your dog to yummy, juicy summertime tomatoes, we’ll help you find just the right serving for your pup and navigate how to add this tasty fruit to your dog’s routine.
Key Takeaways
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Ripe tomatoes are generally safe for dogs in small amounts.
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Green tomatoes, stems, and leaves are toxic due to solanine and should be avoided.
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Fresh, ripe tomatoes offer healthy nutrients for dogs, including vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants.
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Avoid processed tomato products like juice or ketchup, as they contain additives.
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Adhere to the 90/10 Rule for treats (90% regular food, 10% treats).
How Many Tomatoes Can Your Dog Have?
Before you put a whole, ripe tomato in your dog’s bowl, chop it up into ½-inch cubes. And then, dish out a serving according to your dog’s weight.
Extra small dogs (2-20 pounds): Up to two pieces. (½-inch cubes)
Breeds in this range include Dachshunds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Rat Terriers, and Yorkies.
Small dogs (21-30 pounds): Up to three pieces. (½-inch cubes)
Breeds in this range include Cocker Spaniels and Bull Terriers.
Large dogs (31-90): Up to five pieces. (½-inch cubes)
Breeds in this range include Border Collies, American Staffordshire Terriers, Australian Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers.
Extra-large dogs (90+ pounds): Up to six pieces. (½-inch cubes)
Breeds in this range include Bullmastiffs, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Saint Bernards.
If your dog is new to tomatoes, keep an eye on them after they enjoy this fresh treat. Even though tomatoes are chock-full of nutrients, new foods don’t always sit right in a dog’s stomach. So, after your dog licks up the last of their tomatoes, watch for signs of an upset stomach.
Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?
Many dogs naturally gravitate toward fresh, juicy “people food,” like tomatoes. But is this fruit healthy for dogs? Ripe, red tomatoes are safe for dogs to eat, as they don’t contain solanine, a chemical found in the green parts of a tomato. This chemical can be toxic to dogs, regardless of your pup’s size. So, when you’re feeding your dog tomatoes, only give them fresh, red tomatoes without the stem or leaves.
What Nutrients Are in Tomatoes?
Like other natural fruits, tomatoes contain a number of healthy nutrients that can boost your dog’s wellness. These nutrients include:
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Vitamins A and C
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Potassium
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Antioxidants
Can Dogs Eat Tomato Juice?
When you’re wondering “can dogs eat tomatoes,” other tomato-based products will naturally bubble up, too. Generally, your dog should stick with fresh, red tomatoes and steer clear of any tomato-based products, like tomato juice. Tomato juice typically contains a ton of added salt, sugars, and preservatives that aren’t good for dogs.
What About Canned Tomatoes?
The same can be said for canned tomatoes. Canned tomatoes typically contain a number of additives that don’t belong in your dog’s diet. Stick with fresh, ripe tomatoes.
Can Dogs Eat Cherry Tomatoes?
Like other types of tomatoes, dogs can eat ripe, fresh cherry tomatoes. Just make sure they don’t consume any parts of the stem or leaf, as these can be detrimental to your dog’s health.
Can Your Dog Eat Tomatoes Every Day?
When giving your dog “people food,” you should always stick with the 90/10 Rule. This rule suggests that 90% of your dog's daily caloric intake should come from food specifically designed for dogs, such as kibble or homemade dog food. The remaining 10% can then be allocated to treats or human foods, like tomatoes.
Can Puppies Eat a Tomato?
Yes, puppies can eat ripe, red tomatoes, but in low servings and once they’ve graduated to harder foods. After your puppy has enjoyed a small serving of tomato, keep an eye on them and check for signs of an upset stomach.
Are Tomatoes Safe for Dogs to Eat?
Ripe, red tomatoes are safe for dogs. Unripe, green tomatoes contain solanine, a chemical that’s toxic to dogs. Fresh, red tomatoes offer a ton of nutritional benefits that might not exist in your dog’s current diet. This fruit is packed with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that can help boost their nose-to-tail health. But, as with all “people food,” moderation is key.
What Is Tomato Poisoning?
Tomato poisoning, also called tomatine poisoning, occurs when your dog has ingested solanine: a toxic chemical found in unripe tomatoes, their stems, and leaves. This can cause:
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An upset stomach
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Diarrhea
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Seizures
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Tremors
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Vomiting
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Lethargy
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Drooling
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Loss of appetite
If you think your dog is experiencing tomato poisoning, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Do Tomatoes Help With Your Dog’s Digestive Health?
While tomatoes may offer a ton of nutrients, these treats might not go far enough to help with your dog’s digestive health. To fortify their gut health and promote a happier, healthier dog, check out our Probiotic Dog Chews, made with natural prebiotics and probiotics for better gut health and digestion.
More FAQs About Dogs & Tomatoes
Can dogs eat green tomatoes?
No, dogs can’t eat green tomatoes or any part of the fruit’s stem or leaves. These can be toxic to dogs, regardless of their size.
Can dogs eat ketchup?
No, dogs shouldn’t eat ketchup or any other tomato-based products. Ketchup contains a number of additives that don’t belong in your dog’s diet. It’s best to stick with natural, ripe tomatoes.
Can dogs eat too many tomatoes?
Yes, as with any “people food,” dogs can eat too many tomatoes. It’s best to only feed your dog a serving based on their weight. Smaller dogs should get a smaller serving, while bigger dogs can enjoy a larger one. But, as with any snacks or treats, moderation is key.
Can dogs eat lettuce?
Yes, dogs can eat lettuce. This is a low-calorie snack that can be used as a training treat for overweight dogs.
Can dogs eat strawberries?
Yes, dogs can certainly eat strawberries! These are a great, natural treat for pups.
