Are Tomatoes Safe for Dogs?
Dogs often get into human food, whether it's a slice of pizza or some salsa left out on the table. If your pet has snacked on something containing tomatoes, you might wonder if tomatoes are safe for your dog.
Let's delve into whether dogs can eat tomatoes and tomato-based products like pizza sauce without any risk. If it is safe, how can you let them try it?
Can Dogs Have Tomatoes?
According to the Pet Poison Helpline, tomatoes are "mostly safe for dogs to eat." However, only certain parts of the tomato plant are safe for dogs. The red, orange, or yellow ripe fruit that we typically eat and cook with is fine for dogs to enjoy in moderation.
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Be cautious if your dog consumes other parts of the tomato plant, such as the leaves, flowers, vines, stems, or unripe green tomatoes. These contain a substance called tomatine, which can be harmful to dogs.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) advises pet owners to watch for signs of poisoning if their dog consumes green parts of the tomato plant.
Symptoms may include:
- Upset stomach (vomiting or diarrhea)
- Loss of coordination
- Tremors or seizures
- Muscle weakness
How to Let Your Dog Safely Enjoy Tomatoes
Ripe tomatoes are safe for pets but should be given as treats rather than full meals. Sharing a freshly picked cherry tomato or a slice of tomato during meal preparation is fine, but remember to remove any stems or leaves.
When it comes to pizza and salsa, avoid feeding your dog human foods with multiple ingredients. These may contain onions, garlic, or other harmful ingredients from the Allium family, which are toxic to dogs.
Can I Grow Tomatoes and Have a Dog?
Absolutely! If you enjoy gardening, you can grow tomatoes while keeping your dog safe. Consider planting tomatoes in pots away from your dog's play area or using raised pots as part of your decor. Hanging pots of miniature tomatoes can also be kept out of your pet's reach.
A small fence around your garden can help keep your dog away from the toxic green parts of tomato plants.
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