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Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?

Only with care

Ripe, red tomato flesh is generally fine in small amounts. Green tomatoes, stems and leaves should be avoided.

Why

Tomatoes belong to the nightshade family. The green parts of the plant, including stems, leaves and unripe fruit, contain solanine and tomatine, which can cause stomach upset and other problems if eaten in larger amounts.

Ripe tomatoes contain very little of these compounds. The bigger risk is often what comes with them: tomato sauces, soups and ketchup frequently contain onion, garlic, salt and sugar. If you grow tomatoes, keep your dog away from the plants.

Risks to watch for

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Drooling
  • Lethargy or weakness after eating tomato plants
  • Onion or garlic in sauces and soups

How to share safely

  • Offer small pieces of ripe, washed tomato.
  • Skip sauces, soups, pizza and ketchup.
  • Fence off tomato plants in the garden.

How much?

A few small pieces occasionally.

Treats, including human foods, should make up no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily calories.

Related foods

← All foods

Sources

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.
  • Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.
  • American Kennel Club (AKC). “Can Dogs Eat…?” article series.
If your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. Do not wait for symptoms. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).