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🐾Is It Safe?

Can my dog eat Cherries?

🍒

Do not feed

TOXIC — pits, leaves, and stems contain cyanide.

DANGER

Veterinary emergency

If your dog ate this, call ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 or go to your nearest emergency vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.

What this means

Cherry pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides (cyanide). While the flesh itself is not toxic, it is nearly impossible to safely prepare cherries for dogs, and the risk isn't worth it. Maraschino cherries have the pit removed but are high in sugar. Avoid entirely.

Key compound:Cyanogenic glycosides (cyanide)

Symptoms to watch for

bright red gumsdifficulty breathingdilated pupilsshockseizures

Note for medium dogs (20–60 lbs)

Multiple pits can be life-threatening. Avoid cherries entirely.

Reviewed against

ASPCA Poison ControlAKC

For reference only — not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Consult your vet if you have concerns about your dog's health.

Frequently asked questions

Can dogs eat Cherries?▼
No, dogs should not eat Cherries. Cherry pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides (cyanide). While the flesh itself is not toxic, it is nearly impossible to safely prepare cherries for dogs, and the risk isn't worth it. Maraschino cherries have the pit removed but are high in sugar. Avoid entirely.
My dog ate Cherries, what should I do?▼
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms. Possible symptoms include: bright red gums, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, shock, seizures.
How much Cherries is toxic to a dog?▼
Even small amounts of Cherries can be harmful to dogs due to Cyanogenic glycosides (cyanide). The toxicity depends on the dog's size and how much was consumed. Contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance specific to your situation.
Is Cherries poisonous to puppies?▼
Yes, Cherries is especially dangerous to puppies because they are smaller and their bodies are still developing. Puppies may experience more severe symptoms than adult dogs. Contact a veterinarian immediately if a puppy consumes Cherries.
Does my dog’s size matter when eating Cherries?▼

Small dogs: Even one pit can be dangerous for a small dog.

Medium dogs: Multiple pits can be life-threatening. Avoid cherries entirely.

Large dogs: The pit poses a cyanide risk for any size dog. Avoid completely.

Other danger foods

🍫Chocolate🍇Grapes🍇Grape🍇Raisins⚠️Xylitol

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