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The quick answer: Proceed with caution. The fruit is safe in moderation if you first remove the pit and stem.
Benefits of cherries to dogs
Cherries are nutritious fruit that contains vitamin A and C, fiber, antioxidants and melatonin. However, when fed a balanced dog food, your pet doesn’t need cherries to get the nutrients he needs to stay healthy.
Hazards of cherries to dogs
It’s imperative to remove the pits and stems before allowing your dog to try a bite of cherry. The pit, stem, and leaves of a cherry contain cyanide which can cause cyanide poisoning. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include dilated pupils, bright red gums, and labored breathing. Contact your veterinarian if your dog gobbles up a few whole cherries with pits.
Swallowed cherry pits can also cause an internal blockage, especially in smaller breeds. Symptoms of intestinal blockage include vomiting, decreased appetite, and constipation due to the inability for food to pass through the digestive system.
Dogs should only eat cherries in moderation because they can cause gastrointestinal issues and diarrhea. For pet parents looking to treat their dog to some fruit, cherries are not the ideal choice. It may not be worth the effort to remove each cherry pit, and dogs should not eat many cherries anyway. When sharing fruit, opt for a more dog-friendly option like an apple or banana.
Cherries that have been canned or jarred, such as maraschino cherries, should be avoided because they contain high amounts of added sugar. The sugar can cause upset stomach and weight gain.
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