Are cherries safe for dogs?

Cherry pits contain amygdalin, which releases cyanide when crushed. A single swallowed pit is unlikely to poison a large dog, but several chewed pits, or a dog stripping leaves from a cherry tree, is a genuine concern. Pits are also small and hard, so they can collect in the intestine of dogs under about 10 kg (22 lb).

Signs of cyanide exposure include bright red gums, dilated pupils and difficulty breathing, and they need immediate veterinary care.

Pitting enough cherries to make a meaningful treat is fiddly, and it is easy to miss one. Blueberries or apple slices give the same fun with less risk. If you still want to share, cut each cherry in half, check for the pit, and offer one or two to a medium dog.

Wilted cherry leaves, such as those on branches cut after a storm, are considered more dangerous than fresh ones, so clear fallen branches promptly.

Maraschino and glacé cherries are soaked in sugar syrup and colorings. Cherry pie, Black Forest cake and cherry liqueur chocolates add sugar, chocolate or alcohol. None of these belong in a dog's diet.

Cherry trees drop fruit in early summer, and ornamental cherries in parks produce small, bitter fruit that dogs sometimes eat in quantity. Leaves and twigs dropped in storms are also chewed by puppies. If a cherry tree grows in your garden, clear fallen fruit and leaves regularly, particularly while young dogs are exploring everything with their mouths.