Can dogs eat tomatoes?

Why

The green parts of the tomato plant, including stems, leaves, and unripe green fruit, contain solanine which is toxic to dogs. Even ripe tomatoes should only be given as an occasional treat because the acidity can upset some dogs' stomachs.

If you do feed it

• Only offer fully ripe, red tomatoes; avoid all green parts, stems, and leaves.
• Serve plain and washed, with no salt, sugar, garlic, onions, or seasonings.
• Limit to a few small slices or a quarter of a medium tomato as an occasional treat.
• Remove the skin if your dog has a sensitive stomach, as it can be hard to digest.

Watch out for

• Unripe green tomatoes and all plant parts (stems, leaves, vines)
• Tomato sauces, salsas, and soups containing onions, garlic, or salt
• Canned tomatoes with added seasonings
• Large quantities which may cause digestive upset

Better choices