Can dogs eat it?
Can dogs eat tomatoes?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Ripe red tomato flesh is safe for dogs in small amounts. The green parts are the concern: leaves, stems and unripe green tomatoes contain solanine and tomatine, which can upset the stomach and, in larger amounts, affect the nervous system. Keep dogs out of the vegetable patch and skip tomato sauces, which often contain onion and garlic.
Ripe fruit versus the plant
As a tomato ripens, the levels of solanine and tomatine fall sharply. A slice of ripe salad tomato or a halved cherry tomato is a reasonable treat. Green tomatoes, the vines and the leaves hold much more.
Dogs that chew tomato plants in a greenhouse or garden are the ones at real risk, particularly puppies who strip leaves out of curiosity.
Signs after eating the green parts
Most dogs who nibble a leaf or two simply vomit or have loose stools. Eating a lot of plant material can cause drooling, weakness, a slow heart rate, wobbliness or unusual drowsiness. These signs are uncommon, but they are the reason to fence off tomato plants and pick up fallen green fruit.
Cherry tomatoes and choking
Whole cherry tomatoes are round, firm and just the right size to lodge in a small dog's throat. Cut them in half or quarters for any dog under about 10 kg (22 lb). One or two halves is a fair portion for a small dog.
Grape tomatoes and other small snacking varieties need the same treatment. Pick up any that roll off the chopping board, since a dog finding them on the floor will not stop to chew.
Tomato foods to avoid
Pasta sauce, ketchup, salsa, pizza topping and tomato soup usually contain onion, garlic, salt or sugar, and sometimes spices. Sun-dried tomatoes are often packed in oil with herbs and garlic. Plain fresh ripe tomato is the only version to share.
Key takeaways
- Ripe red tomato flesh is safe in small amounts.
- Leaves, stems and green tomatoes contain solanine and tomatine.
- Halve cherry tomatoes for small dogs.
- Tomato sauces and ketchup often contain onion and garlic.