Can Dogs Eat Fruits? Risks of Poisoning Explained

It's important to remember that dogs have a different digestive system than humans, and an inappropriate diet can lead to chronic diseases, which in severe cases, can even be fatal for our furry friends. As carnivores, dogs do not have a need for fruits and vegetables, but occasionally indulging in a vegetarian treat won't harm them!

Let's take a look at the fruits and vegetables in our daily lives. Which ones are safe for dogs to consume, and which ones should be avoided?

Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Should Not Eat

Tomatoes

While the red flesh of ripe tomatoes is generally safe for dogs, unripe tomatoes contain a toxic substance called solanine. Although dogs would need to consume a large amount of tomatoes to become poisoned, it's best to err on the side of caution and not feed them tomatoes.

Avocado

The pit, skin, and leaves of avocados contain a toxin called persin, which is used to protect the fruit from insects and fungi. While humans can ingest low doses without issue, dogs can suffer from vomiting and diarrhea if they consume it. The fresh fruit has a lower toxin content, but it's still too dangerous for our pets.

Cherries

The pits of cherries contain cyanide, which can interfere with oxygen transport in cells, meaning that dogs' red blood cells won't receive enough oxygen. If a dog eats cherries, be on the lookout for symptoms like dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, or rashes, as these could be signs of cyanide poisoning.

Grapes

Whether it's a dog's breed, gender, or age, grapes and raisins have been proven to cause kidney failure in dogs and are toxic. Never feed your dog grapes, as they can be deadly!