It's no secret that Americans love dogs. There are almost 100 million dogs owned by pet owners in the United States. But when it comes to their diet, we don't always give them what they deserve. Just like us, dogs have digestive issues and allergies. They suffer from gastroenteritis and other food-related ailments. That's why it's important to know what foods are safe for them to consume. In this article, HowPetCare will dig into whether or not dogs can eat cherries and what precautions you should take.
Can Dogs Eat Cherries?
The short answer is no, dogs can't eat cherries. However, it also depends on the quantity and how the cherries are served. Let's take a closer look at why cherries aren't a good idea for pups.
The Seeds and Stems of Cherries Are Toxic
Cherry seeds and stems contain cyanogenic glycoside (cyanide). While the concentration of this toxin is low, it's still not worth the risk. The toxin is released when the seeds and stems are broken through chewing. If a dog eats enough cherries, including the seeds and stems, there's a risk it could be fatal. Additionally, the pits can get stuck in a dog's digestive tract, leading to intestinal blockages.
Your Canine's Canines Could Get Damaged
Cherry pits are extremely hard, even for a dog's teeth. If your pup bites down on cherries, she could end up damaging her teeth and experiencing a lot of pain.
They Could Get Sick From Mold On The Cherries
Certain types of mold can make dogs sick. With cherries, it's possible for the flesh of the fruit to be fresh while the pit inside is moldy. Mold illness can cause an upset stomach, liver failure, and even tremors. It's best to only give your dog the flesh of the cherries.
Cherries Are High in Sugar
While dogs may enjoy sweet flavors, cherries are high in sugar. If you want to avoid giving your pup a sugar rush, it's best to only give them a few fresh pit-free, stem-free cherries on special occasions.
Your Dog's Esophagus Could Get Damaged
Cherry pits and stems pose a risk of damaging your dog's esophagus. A pit that gets stuck or tears the esophagus lining can cause serious damage. Look out for symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, regurgitation, gagging, and loss of appetite.
Avoid a trip to the Vet by not feeding your dog cherries!
Can Dogs Eat Cherries Without Pits?
Technically, you can give your dog cherries without the seeds and stems. Cherries are an extremely nutritious fruit packed with dietary fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants. However, cherries have a high concentration of sugar. It's important to only give your dog a few cherries at a time and observe for any adverse reactions.
Can Dogs Eat Dried Cherries?
Dried cherries tend to have a higher sugar content than fresh fruit. It's best to avoid giving your dog dried cherries due to their high sugar content. If your pup loves cherries and it doesn't upset their stomach, opt for fresh cherry fruit without the stems and pits, and only give them a few at a time.
What Symptoms Occur From a Dog Eating Cherries?
If your pup consumes more than a few cherries, here are some signs of cyanide poisoning to look out for:
- Dilated pupils
- Panting
- Shock
- Difficulty breathing
- Brick red mucous membranes
- Salivation
- Convulsions or paralysis
- Cherry-red gums
Cyanide toxicity prevents oxygen from being released to the cells, leading to suffocation. If you notice any of these symptoms, don't hesitate to call your vet.
What Are Some Safe Cherry Alternatives?
If you enjoy sharing delicious fruit with your pup on a hot summer day, there are plenty of safe and nutritious options. Here are a few alternatives to cherries:
Blueberries: These superfoods are low in sugar and packed with antioxidants and dietary fiber. They make a great treat for your dog.
Peaches, Pears, and Apples: Peaches can help fight infections and are a good source of vitamin A and fiber. Remember to remove the pits before giving them to your dog. Pears are high in vitamins K and C, copper, and fiber. Cut them into small chunks and remove the pit. Apples are full of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Be sure to remove the core and seeds.
More Great Treats: Other safe fruits for dogs include strawberries, watermelon, pineapple, mango, and cucumber. Just remember to remove any pits, seeds, stems, leaves, or rinds before giving them to your furry friend.
What Other Fruits Aren't Safe?
While cherries are off the menu for dogs, there are a few other fruits you should avoid giving your pet:
- Avocados
- Grapes
- Tomatoes
Grapes, in particular, can be toxic to dogs and can lead to acute kidney failure. It's never worth the risk.
Keys to Take Away
- Cherries can be toxic to dogs due to the seeds and stems containing cyanide.
- Cherry pits are hard and can damage your dog's teeth.
- Mold on cherries can make dogs sick.
- Cherries are high in sugar and should only be given in moderation.
- The esophagus can be damaged by cherry pits and stems.
- Safe alternatives to cherries include blueberries, peaches, pears, apples, strawberries, watermelon, pineapple, mango, and cucumber.
Remember to always prioritize your dog's health and well-being when choosing their treats. If you're ever unsure about whether a certain food is safe for your dog, consult with your veterinarian.
For more pet care tips and advice, visit HowPetCare.