The Short Answer
Skip cherries entirely. The pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide compounds.
Why Cherries Is Dangerous
Cherry flesh alone isn't toxic, but separating it from the pit is impractical, and cherry pits release cyanide when chewed or digested.
Pits, stems, and leaves contain amygdalin, which converts to hydrogen cyanide in the digestive tract. Cyanide blocks cells from using oxygen. A few pits in a small dog can be lethal.
Toxic Threshold
Just a few pits in a 20-lb dog is potentially serious. The flesh itself causes mainly GI upset.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Difficulty breathing
- Bright red gums
- Dilated pupils
- Shock
- Death (severe cases)
When to Call the Vet
Any cherry pit ingestion is a true emergency. Call ASPCA Poison Control immediately.
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · $95 fee · 24/7
The Dog Dad Take
Cherry season = watch the ground under cherry trees obsessively. Tank found a fallen cherry once and we had a $400 vet visit to be safe.
Frequently Asked
Is cherries safe for dogs?
Skip cherries entirely. The pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide compounds.
How much cherries is dangerous for a dog?
Just a few pits in a 20-lb dog is potentially serious. The flesh itself causes mainly GI upset.
What are the symptoms if my dog ate too much cherries?
Difficulty breathing. Bright red gums. Dilated pupils. Shock. Death (severe cases).
When should I call the vet?
Any cherry pit ingestion is a true emergency. Call ASPCA Poison Control immediately.