Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes? Ripe Fruit vs Green Plants

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Tomatoes cause confusion because they belong to the nightshade family. The ripe fruit is generally safe, while the green parts of the plant are not. Knowing the difference helps you share safely and protect your garden-raiding dog.

The nightshade question

Tomatoes belong to the nightshade family, along with potatoes, peppers and aubergines. Nightshade plants contain alkaloids. In tomatoes, the main one is tomatine, which is found in higher amounts in green, unripe fruit, stems and leaves. Ripe red tomatoes contain much less and are generally tolerated.

Ripe tomatoes

Ripe, red tomato flesh contains vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K and lycopene, an antioxidant. It is low in calories, and mostly water. Dogs usually tolerate small amounts, though the acidity can upset sensitive stomachs. See essential vitamins for dogs.

Green tomatoes and plants

Green tomatoes, stems, leaves and vines contain higher levels of tomatine and solanine. Large amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset, drooling, drowsiness, confusion, weakness, slowed heart rate and, in severe cases, more serious effects. Poisoning is uncommon, because a dog would need to eat a large quantity, but it can occur if a dog eats a lot of the plant. Contact your vet if your dog eats part of a tomato plant, and bring a sample if possible. See what to do for poisoning.

How to serve ripe tomato

1. Choose fully ripe, red tomatoes.
2. Wash and remove the stem and any green parts.
3. Cut into small pieces.
4. Offer a small amount, and watch for stomach upset.

How much?

Treats should be no more than about ten percent of daily calories. One or two slices or a couple of cherry tomatoes suit a small dog, and a few more for a large dog. Too much can cause stomach upset because of acidity.

Tomato products to avoid

• Tomato sauce, pasta sauce and ketchup, which often contain garlic, onion, salt and sugar. See onions and garlic.
• Tomato soup with cream, salt and seasoning.
• Pizza, with cheese, fat and seasoning.
• Salsa, which often has onion, garlic and spicy peppers.
• Sun-dried tomatoes in oil.

Garden safety

If you grow tomatoes, use fencing or raised beds to keep dogs away. Remove fallen green fruit. Dogs that dig or chew garden plants may need supervision, and your vet can advise about toxic plants in your area.

Special considerations

• Dogs with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux: Tomato acidity may worsen signs.
• Dogs with allergies: Tomatoes are an uncommon allergen.
• Dogs on kidney diets: Potassium may need to be limited. Ask your vet.

Other safe veggie options

Try cucumber or carrots. See carrots.

Spotting plant poisoning early

If your dog has been in the garden, look for chewed leaves, vomit with green bits and drooling. Take a photo of the plant and any damaged parts, and note how long ago your dog ate it. Your vet or a poison helpline can then advise whether to monitor at home or come in. Do not give home remedies unless a professional tells you to.

Cooked tomato and canned tomato

Plain cooked tomato is acceptable in small amounts, but processing often concentrates acidity and adds salt. Canned tomatoes may contain added salt, citric acid or herbs. A tiny taste of plain puree is unlikely to harm, but there is little benefit. If you cook for your dog, use recipes from a veterinary nutritionist, and keep tomatoes as a minor ingredient.

Why variety matters

A complete diet gives your dog everything it needs. Fruit and vegetables are optional extras, so you can skip tomatoes entirely if your dog has a sensitive stomach, reflux or a history of reacting to nightshades.

The takeaway

Ripe tomato flesh is fine in small amounts. Keep dogs away from green fruit and plants, and skip the sauces.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.