Your Dog Can Eat Tomatoes—Here's What You Need to Know

Wondering if it’s safe to share tomatoes with your furry friend? The good news is yes—dogs can eat tomatoes, but there are important rules to follow. Ripe tomatoes offer genuine nutritional value for your pup, though not all parts of the plant are safe. Let’s break down everything pet owners should know before offering this snack.

Are Tomatoes Actually Safe for Dogs?

Ripe tomatoes are generally secure for dogs in small amounts. They’re packed with vitamins, antioxidants and fiber that support digestive health and overall wellness. However, never feed your dog unripe, green tomatoes or any green parts of the plant including stems and leaves. These contain higher levels of naturally occurring compounds called tomatines and solanines, which can cause harm to dogs.

The key distinction: if the tomato is red and fully mature, it’s fine. If it has any green coloring, keep it away from your pup.

Puppies and Tomatoes: Can Young Dogs Eat Them?

Puppies can technically eat tomatoes, but veterinarians recommend checking with your vet first. Young dogs have delicate, immature digestive systems, so introducing new foods requires caution. Always start with tiny portions to ensure your puppy tolerates the treat without stomach upset.

How Much Tomato Can Your Dog Have?

Moderation is everything. Think of tomatoes as an occasional snack, not a dietary staple:

• Frequency: A slice or a few cherry tomatoes just 2-3 times per week works well
• Portion size: One or two slices, or 1-2 cherry tomatoes per serving
• Daily limit: Treats like tomatoes shouldn’t exceed 10% of your dog’s total daily calorie intake
• Pro tip: Start with small amounts to confirm your dog handles the new food without issues

Cut smaller tomatoes in half to prevent choking hazards.

How to Properly Prepare Tomatoes for Dogs

Before serving:

• Wash thoroughly to remove pesticides and dirt
• Remove all green parts including the stem, leaves and any unripe sections
• Cut into bite-sized pieces, especially for smaller varieties like cherry or grape tomatoes
• Serve only ripe tomatoes

Why Tomatoes Benefit Your Dog

One cup of raw grape tomatoes delivers impressive nutrition for your pup:

• 3.19g of fiber – supports digestive regularity
• 41.3mg of vitamin C – boosts immunity and supports wound healing
• 395mg of potassium – maintains muscle and nerve function
• 16.7mg of calcium – strengthens bones
• 18.1mg of magnesium – aids muscle and nerve health
• Plus 0.5mg of iron for oxygen transport

Key Health Advantages

Antioxidant powerhouse: Tomatoes combat free radical damage, potentially lowering risks of chronic conditions like cancer and heart disease.

Digestive support: The fiber content (both soluble and insoluble) promotes healthy gut bacteria, regulates blood sugar, and prevents constipation.

Immune boost: Vitamin C strengthens your dog’s natural defenses and collagen production.

Blood and bone health: Vitamin K in tomatoes is essential for clotting and bone strength.

What NOT to Give Your Dog

Avoid these tomato-based products:

• Tomato sauce & soup: Often contain garlic and onion, which are toxic to dogs, plus excess sodium
• Canned tomatoes: High in sodium and chemical preservatives
• Cooked tomatoes: Stick to raw, ripe tomatoes only (homemade cooked tomatoes are the only exception)

Other Dog-Friendly Fruits Worth Trying

If your dog enjoys tomatoes, try these alternatives:

Apples (seeds removed), bananas (small amounts), blueberries, strawberries, watermelon (no seeds), cantaloupe (no seeds), peaches (pit removed), pears (seeds removed), raspberries, cranberries, mangos (skin and pit removed), oranges (minimal portions), cucumbers, and pineapple.

Always cut hard fruits into smaller pieces and remove seeds, pits, and peels to prevent choking and toxicity risks.

Quick FAQs

Raw vs. prepared: Raw, ripe tomatoes from your garden or store are fine if washed and stems removed.

Cherry tomatoes: Safe, but cut them in half first due to their size.

The bottom line: Tomatoes can be a nutritious occasional treat for your dog when properly prepared and given in moderation. Start small, monitor your dog’s reaction, and always consult your vet with dietary questions. Your dog’s health comes first.