Can Dogs Eat Cherries?
No matter whether you prefer sweet or sour cherries, these delightful, deep red—and sometimes heart-shaped!—fruits are popular in human recipes, from salads and smoothies to sorbets and pies. But can dogs enjoy them too? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it depends on how they’re prepared.
We consulted two veterinary experts to explore the health benefits and potential risks of cherries for dogs, how to serve them safely, and what to watch for.
Before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, always check with your veterinarian.
Can Dogs Have Cherries?
Yes and no—cherries can be both safe and unsafe for dogs and puppies, depending on the type of cherry and how they’re prepared, says Bethany Hsia, DVM, mobile veterinarian and co-founder of CodaPet in Clovis, California.
The flesh of the cherry fruit isn’t toxic to dogs and is generally safe in small amounts—so much so that it appears as an ingredient in some commercial dog diets and treats. However, cherry pits, stems, and leaves must always be avoided, as they pose serious health risks.
Are Cherries Good for Dogs?
Research suggests cherries offer several potential nutritional benefits:
- Packed with polyphenols (organic compounds linked to overall health), plus vitamins and antioxidants like C, E, and A
- High in dietary fiber
- Rich in potassium
- Low in calories
Cherries can also be lower in fat than many store-bought dog treats, notes Shalsee Vigeant, DVM, medical director of Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) in Sugar Land, Texas.
Still, she points out that other fruits and vegetables may be safer and easier to feed—with no risk of obstruction or toxicity—including:
- Strawberries
- Pumpkin
- Cucumbers
- Blueberries
- Zucchini
Are Cherries Bad for Dogs?
While cherries are a healthy snack for humans, they aren’t ideal for dogs unless carefully prepared.
Key risks include:
- Stomach upset: Their high natural sugar content may trigger vomiting or diarrhea.
- Dental damage: Cherry pits are extremely hard and can fracture or break teeth if chewed.
- Choking hazard: The size and firmness of whole cherries—especially with pits—make them dangerous for dogs of all sizes.
- Intestinal blockage: Pits can cause life-threatening obstructions, regardless of your dog’s size.
Cherry pits contain trace amounts of cyanide. While a single pit is unlikely to cause harm, ingestion of just a handful of unpitted cherries could lead to cyanide toxicity—especially in smaller dogs.
Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in dogs may include:
- Agitation or restlessness
- Discomfort or lethargy
- Increased or labored breathing
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Seizures
If you suspect your dog has swallowed cherry pits—or any part of the cherry plant—or shows signs of respiratory distress, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 immediately.
How Many Cherries Can I Give My Dog?
Cherries aren’t essential to a balanced canine diet—they’re strictly a treat. And treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake (even less for overweight dogs).
Dr. Hsia recommends the following general serving guidelines based on size and weight. Note: Exact portions depend on cherry variety and size.
| Dog Size | Serving Size |
|---|---|
| Extra-small dogs (2–10 pounds) | ½–1 cherry |
| Small dogs (11–20 pounds) | 1–2 cherries |
| Medium dogs (21–50 pounds) | 2–3 cherries |
| Large dogs (51–90 pounds) | 3–4 cherries |
| Extra-large dogs (91+ pounds) | 4–5 cherries |
Signs of overconsumption or intolerance—including bloating, stomach discomfort, or diarrhea—may appear within 4–8 hours, or up to 24 hours after eating cherries, Dr. Vigeant explains.
If you notice anything unusual, stop feeding cherries and consult your vet.
How To Safely Feed Your Dog Cherries
If you’d like to share cherries with your dog, follow these steps:
- Choose fresh or frozen cherries—avoid canned or jarred versions, which often contain added sugar or preservatives.
- Wash thoroughly to remove dirt, bacteria, and pesticide residue.
- Remove stems, leaves, and pits—only the flesh should be served.
- Cut into bite-size pieces to reduce choking risk.
Cherries can be offered in several ways:
- As a stand-alone treat
- Mixed into their regular food or blended with plain yogurt
- Included in a dog-friendly recipe (like no-bake icebox cookies)
- Stuffed into a classic FurPetVo KONG toy or spread onto a FurPetVo lick mat
Store-Bought Dog Treats With Cherries
Prefer to skip the prep? Several FurPetVo-approved dog treats feature real cherries—made with care and formulated for canine nutrition. Look for options that list cherries as a recognizable, minimally processed ingredient and avoid those with artificial additives or excessive sugar.
FAQs About Dogs and Cherries
Are cherry pits poisonous to dogs? Can dogs eat cherries without pits?
Yes—cherry pits are poisonous and can cause life-threatening symptoms if ingested in quantity. Dogs can safely eat pitted cherries in moderation, but only the flesh should be offered.
Can dogs have maraschino cherries?
Maraschino cherries aren’t technically toxic—but they’re loaded with sugar and preservatives, which can cause stomach upset. It’s best to avoid them entirely.
Can dogs eat black cherries?
Yes—as long as only the flesh is given and all pits, stems, and leaves are removed.
Can cherries cause diarrhea in dogs?
Yes. Their high sugar content may trigger diarrhea, especially if fed in excess or if your dog has a sensitive digestive system.
