Cherries are a sweet and juicy fruit that many of us enjoy as a treat, but if you’re a dog parent, you might wonder: Can dogs eat cherries? When you’re mixing up a fruit salad or just eating a simple bowl of these fresh fruits, is it okay to share?
The answer is yes – but with caution. While cherries can provide some nutritional benefits, they also come with potential risks. Understanding how to safely feed cherries to your dog is key. This blog will explore the health benefits of cherries, how to serve them safely, and even share a simple treat recipe. Plus, we’ll highlight other dog-friendly fruits that make great snacks.
Can Dogs Eat Cherries?
Can dogs eat cherries? Yes, the flesh of the cherry is safe for dogs and contains several beneficial nutrients. When cherries are prepared correctly (with pits, stems, and leaves removed), they can be a tasty and nutritious treat for dogs.
Cherries are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and other nutrients that can benefit your dog:
- Vitamin A – Supports healthy skin, coat, and vision.
- Vitamin C – Boosts immune system function and promotes overall health.
- Antioxidants – Help combat free radicals and reduce inflammation, which can benefit aging dogs or those with joint issues.
- Fiber – Aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
- Low-Calorie Treat – Makes cherries a good option for dogs needing to watch their weight.
That said, you do want to be aware of a few tips…
How to Safely Feed Cherries to Dogs
To safely share cherries with your dog, follow these steps:
- Remove the Pit, Stem, and Leaves – The pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, a toxic compound that can be harmful to dogs if ingested in large amounts (don’t worry if your dog eats a few pits; when we say large, we mean a significant amount). Additionally, swallowing whole pits (or even the cherries whole) can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages.
- Wash Thoroughly – Rinse cherries under cool water to remove dirt, pesticides, or chemicals. If you can, buy organic cherries.
- Serve in Small Portions – Cherries should be given in moderation due to their natural sugar content, so don’t overdo it.
- Avoid Artificially Sweetened or Preserved Cherries – Dried cherries, cherry pie filling, or cherries with added sugars or sweeteners (especially xylitol) are not safe for dogs. Only ever feed fresh cherries to your pup.
Easy Cherry Treat Recipe for Dogs
Want to make a special cherry treat for your dog? Try this simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cherries (pits, stems, and leaves removed)
- 1 cup plain, unsweetened kefir
Instructions:
- Blend the cherries into a puree.
- Mix the cherry puree with the kefir.
- Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for 2-3 hours or until solid.
- Serve as a refreshing summer treat!
Tip: Store leftovers in the freezer for up to a month.
Other Beneficial Fruits for Dogs
If cherries aren’t your dog’s favourite, or you’re looking for variety, here are other fruits that are safe and healthy for dogs:
- Blueberries – Packed with antioxidants and low in calories.
- Apples – A great source of fibre and vitamins (just remove the seeds and core). They also contain prebiotics!
- Bananas – Provide potassium and are an excellent energy booster.
- Watermelon – Hydrating and low in calories (remove the seeds and rind).
- Strawberries – Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Mango – Contains vitamins A, B6, and C (remove the pit and skin).
- Pineapple – A tropical treat full of vitamins and enzymes that support digestion.
So, can dogs eat cherries? Yes, just be sure to prepare them properly! Cherries can provide a boost of vitamins and antioxidants and add variety to the diet, but it’s essential to remove the pits, stems, and leaves and serve them in moderation.
